Fraud in car repairs: Mobilians launch an urgent action plan

A wide range of anomalies were revealed in approximately 40% of the 1,600 garages inspected by DGCCRF in 2024. The anti-fraud agency published these results on June 4, 2026. These figures caused an immediate reaction from Mobilians, which “condemned in the strictest terms the fraudulent practices noted by DGCCRF services”. Faced with this observation, the employers’ organization is launching an action plan to support mechanics. However, it adds nuances to the stated facts.

Showing goodwill to some repairmen

In fact, he emphasizes that “a significant portion of the observed deficiencies relate to errors in information, representation or administrative formalism, which are a matter of increased regulatory complexity rather than a deliberate desire on the part of professionals to deceive consumers.” From the union’s perspective, these are not mistakes of the same nature as mechanics resorting to illegal practices, or even likened to fraud.

The last ones cited by Mobilians include, for example, the removal of anti-pollution devices by some unscrupulous professionals. The union could also have cited cases of billing for operations not performed or the eventual imposition of higher rates than initially announced, practices noted by DGCCRF…

Alongside these abuses, the organization also defends the goodwill of other mechanics. This reminds us of the increasing complexity of the world in which they operate. Between the energy transition, the electrification of the fleet, the digitalization of customer relations and the constant evolution of regulatory obligations… It is not easy to keep your practices up to date, especially when it comes to display.

Dialogue with ministries

Moreover, since this survey in 2024, Mobilians claim that they have already taken action to help garage owners stay within the legal framework. But to go further and quickly reverse this trend, the union announced that it would immediately launch a new campaign against its members.

This will consist of hosting thematic webinars over the coming weeks. These will target cases identified by DGCCRF. The organization then continues to monitor developments affecting the workshops from a regulatory perspective. Finally, it continues to distribute information and regulatory reminders to mechanics.

More generally, Mobilians underline the importance of dialogue with relevant ministries. Its aim is to harmonize consumer protection with the obligations of professionals. Second, it must be adapted to the operational realities of various automotive maintenance professions. Ultimately, it’s about delighting customers by rebuilding trust between drivers and professionals.