The Bureau of Automotive Repair is a division of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. It was created to protect consumers from dishonest and incompetent auto repair shops. BAR licenses auto repair dealers, Smog Check stations, and lamp & brake inspection stations across the state.
When you file a complaint, BAR assigns a field representative to your case. This person is responsible for contacting the shop, potentially inspecting your vehicle, mediating the dispute, and determining the outcome. Their word often determines whether you get relief — or get a form letter.
BAR has the authority to issue citations, levy fines, suspend licenses, and even revoke a shop's right to operate. But these enforcement actions are largely invisible to consumers. There's no public database of how individual field reps perform, how many complaints they close without action, or whether their investigations are thorough.
That's why this platform exists.
BAR oversees approximately 36,000 licensed auto repair dealers and 7,800 Smog Check stations across the state.
BAR reports to the DCA, which oversees 40+ licensing boards and bureaus. The DCA falls under the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency.
Business & Professions Code §§9880–9889.68. The law that gives BAR its power to regulate repair shops and investigate consumer complaints.
From Sacramento to San Diego. Your complaint is assigned to the field office nearest the repair shop, not necessarily where you live.
BAR receives tens of thousands of complaints annually. The most common: overcharging, unauthorized repairs, and poor-quality work.