A total of 35,431 automotive repair dealers are under the purview of BAR rules and regulations. Here’s the latest from its recent Advisory Committee meeting.
Rancho Cordova, Calif.—The Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) conducted its latest Advisory Committee Meeting, April 23. Jack Molodanof, legislative advocate for the California Autobody Association and the Automotive Service Councils of California, was there and provided his summary below of what was discussed.
Consumer Complaint Process
Complaints are increasing. BAR investigated 17,422 consumer complaints in fiscal year (FY) 2024–2025 and expects that number to rise to approximately 19,000 in FY 2025–2026. These complaints resulted in $5,336,195 in consumer refunds in FY 2024–2025.
BAR’s goal is to make the complaint submission process — whether online or by phone — as simple as possible for consumers. Consumers (and licensees) who rely on AI to predict the likely outcome of a complaint should be aware that AI-generated responses may be inaccurate or incomplete. BAR will disclose the following information:
- A closure letter indicating the complaint has been resolved.
- In some cases, a more detailed summary letter outlining the facts of the repair transaction.
- A survey card to gather feedback on the complaint process and the investigator’s handling of the case.
- Information on seeking legal guidance for potential next steps by either party.
The following information is considered privileged and is not subject to disclosure under a public records request:
- Investigative steps taken
- Evidence gathered
- Internal BAR communications
- Violations identified
- The outcome of the investigation
- Any education or disciplinary action under consideration
After a BAR complaint investigation involving a shop, BAR will typically provide the shop with a written Station Report outlining the laws discussed during the investigation and request that the shop acknowledge receipt.
Depending on the circumstances, BAR may also issue a citation. During the investigation, BAR may review, and address issues not originally included in the consumer’s complaint as part of its educational efforts.
See link for presentation.
Citation Program
Citations are used to educate BAR licensees on applicable laws and regulations when a violation has occurred, and to promote and require future compliance.
Citations are issued with an order of abatement to stop the violation, and fines may also be included, particularly for repeated or egregious offenses. Citation information is posted on BAR’s website once it is final and effective, except in cases where remedial training has been completed.
For fiscal year (FY) 2025–2026, there were 216 citations for delinquent licenses, 559 for unlicensed activity, 160 for smog check violations, and 97 for Automotive Repair Act violations. Citations related to the Automotive Repair Act have gradually increased since the adoption of the new citation regulations.
BAR’s approach to achieving compliance continues to prioritize education, transparency, and early engagement. See link for presentation.
Enforcement Statistics
The enforcement statistics, detailing consumer complaints received by BAR in different categories, are as follows:
• Engine Repair 35%
• General Repair/Maintenance 16%
• Auto Body 15%
• Transmission 6%
• Vehicle Purchase 7%
• Smog 4%
• Used Car lots 7%
• Towing and Storage 4%
• Unlicensed activity 1%.
See link for the handout presentation.
Fraudulent Aftermarket Converters and O2 sensor Defeat Devices
There is a significant problem with fraudulent aftermarket converters and sensors in the marketplace. Sales of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) O₂ sensors have declined, in part due to the availability of defeat devices, such as emulators, being sold. In addition, non-compliant catalytic converters are being sold and installed in vehicles instead of CARB-approved converters.
These compliant converters contain valuable precious metals, making them target’s for illegal removal and resale. These issues are negatively impacting legitimate manufacturers. A major contributing factor is the lack of enforcement at the federal level.
See link for presentation.
Cal-VIS Update
Cal-VIS is information technology that supports the Smog Check and Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection (VSSI) Program. Improvements include platform software updates and a VSSI recall lookup process. BAR will begin the DAD certification process shortly.
See link for presentation.
Licensing Statistics.
A total of 35,431 automotive repair dealers are in the state. See link for handout presentation.
The next BAR Advisory Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 30.
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