A legal battle is unfolding in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, where a plaintiff has filed a lawsuit against a local auto repair business, accusing it of deceptive practices and poor workmanship. John Short initiated the complaint on December 24, 2024, against Greg Ventrice, who operates under the name Autoworx Pittsburgh. The case highlights issues surrounding consumer rights and service quality in the automotive repair industry.
The dispute began in September 2023 when John Short took his 2016 Volvo to Autoworx Pittsburgh for an engine noise diagnosis. By October 2, 2023, the defendant identified worn serpentine and v-belts as the culprits and recommended their replacement. However, during a subsequent test drive on October 3, the vehicle's timing belt snapped, causing severe engine damage. Despite initially agreeing to repair the damage at a reduced cost of $550 from an estimated $6,000 invoice if the vehicle functioned properly post-repair, Short faced delays and inadequate communication from Ventrice over several months.
Short claims that despite repeated assurances that repairs were nearly complete between November 2023 and January 2024, he encountered further complications after retrieving his vehicle on January 27, 2024. The check engine light illuminated shortly after driving less than ten miles. A subsequent inspection by a Volvo dealership revealed improper repairs by Ventrice that necessitated additional work costing $937.41.
John Short accuses Greg Ventrice of violating Pennsylvania's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law (UTPCPL) by misrepresenting his capabilities to diagnose and repair the vehicle effectively. He also alleges breaches under the Pennsylvania Automotive Trade Practices Act for failing to complete repairs promptly or in a skilled manner. The plaintiff seeks compensatory damages covering repair costs paid to both Autoworx Pittsburgh and Volvo dealership services, lost vehicle value estimated between $10,275-$15,420 based on Kelly Blue Book valuations, rental car expenses incurred during prolonged repair periods, attorney fees, and treble damages as permitted under UTPCPL provisions.
Representing John Short is attorney Nicholas R. DiNardo from Very Law PLLC in Pittsburgh. The case is presided over by judges within Allegheny County's Court of Common Pleas under Case ID No. CVPDD008S292F613.