The Automotive Consumer Action Program (AutoCAP)
What is AutoCAP?
How does AutoCAP work?
AutoCAP is effective when...
AutoCAP cannot be effective when...
What if my car is still under warranty?
We're here to help...
How to contact AutoCAP...
What is AutoCAP?
AutoCAP is a free, easy-to-use public service designed to mediate disagreements between participating Texas Automobile Dealers Association members and their customers. AutoCAP handles customer-dealer disputes concerning vehicle purchases, services and, in some circumstances, parts.
How does AutoCAP work?
Written customer complaints received by AutoCAP are first directed to the dealership involved. Once aware of the problem, the dealership works with AutoCAP and the customer to find an agreeable solution. Usually no further intervention from AutoCAP is required.
If a mutually acceptable solution cannot be reached, upon customer request the complaint is submitted to the AutoCAP panel. The panel, comprising of consumer and dealer representatives, will review the facts at its next meeting and recommend a course of action. Neither the customer nor the dealer is bound by the panel's recommendation.
AutoCAP is effective when...
The dispute concerns:
-A vehicle purchased from a participating franchised dealer
The complaint involves:
- used vehicle purchases
- service
- parts (in some cases)
AutoCAP cannot be effective when...
Legal action has already begun
The customer or dealer has hired an attorney
The problem involves a dealership that is not a member of TADA or a manufacturer who does not participate in AutoCAP
The repair is covered by the manufacturer's warranty
What if my car is still under warranty?
If your complaint involves the repair of a new motor vehicle which is still under the manufacturer's warranty, follow these steps until your problem is resolved:
Talk to the dealership where your vehicle was purchased.
Contact the manufacturer's regional or national customer relations office. This information should be in your owner's manual.
Send a description of the warranty, the car involved and the details of the complaint to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. This state agency oversees warranty issues, including the state's Lemon Law.
Call 888-368-4689 or 512-465-3000. Or write to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Enforcement Division, P.O. Box 26515, Austin, Texas 78755-0515.
We're here to help..
An automobile purchase of any kind is a big investment. The dealership wants you to feel comfortable with this purchase. If there is ever a problem with your vehicle or the services performed on it, the dealership wants you to know you can come to them with the problem.
You will want to know all of your options. That is why the dealership wants you to be aware of AutoCAP.
How to contact AutoCAP...
If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with the action taken by the dealership, send a written statement to AutoCAP, 1108 Lavaca, Suite 800, Austin, Texas 78701-2181, or call 512-476-2686. Please include your name, address, the name of the dealership, a description of the vehicle, the nature of the complaint and the resolution you are seeking.