State cracks down on unlicensed repair shops

DETROIT (WJBK) - Six Metro Detroit auto shops have been ordered to shut down by the Secretary of State for operating illegally. Cease and desist stickers were on the front door of Certified Auto Center on Joy Road in Detroit by the Secretary of State on Nov. 5. 

But when FOX 2 stopped by on Wednesday afternoon, engines were being worked on right out in the open - and other repairs were being handled behind closed doors. 

The Office of the Secretary of State says it's possible steps are being taken by the shop to get a license renewed, but they are not there yet. If criminal charges are brought forward the owner could face jail time on misdemeanor charges. 

"They just need to come into compliance," said Secretary of State Spokesperson, Fred Woodhams. "They need to show they have trained, certified mechanics working for them." 

Certified Auto Center is not the only shop in Detroit told to stop doing repairs. Back on Oct. 30. Discount Tire and Auto on East Warren was given a cease and desist order because it was unlicensed. 

It is frustrating for customers who have had negative experiences with shops in the past, which is why some say it's good to do homework. 

"You've got to check and make sure they got their license on the wall, first of all," said Detroiter Norman Collier. Then you have got to Google it and make sure the guy is a reputable mechanic." 

The Secretary of State has a complaint line for anyone who thinks they had work done by an unlicensed mechanic. The number to that hotline is 844-372-8356.