A third (36%) of drivers in Latvia believe that the biggest risk when visiting "grey" car repair shops is unqualified car repair and maintenance specialists, according to the results of a survey conducted by Norstat Latvija with the support of the Moller Auto dealer network. 26% of respondents identified additional damage to the car among the possible risks, which may be caused by visiting such a service. The survey also found that 18% of respondents believe that the biggest risk is the use of non-original spare parts during repairs at "grey" car repair shops. Another 7% of respondents indicated delays in servicing and repairs, due to which the car is returned to the owner later than planned. 3% of respondents believe that the main risk of "grey" car repair shops is the lack of suitable tools and equipment. The same number of respondents indicated a lack of trust in the quality of the chemicals used in these services. 8% of respondents indicated other risks, such as the lack of a guarantee for the work performed, attempts to demand more money than was agreed upon in advance. Another risk mentioned was the inability to prove that the car repairs had been carried out at all. When asked why they still chose the services of "grey" car repair shops, drivers most often cited lower repair costs (88%), recommendations from friends and acquaintances (25%), and a convenient location of the service (15%). Less frequently, it was mentioned that, in their opinion, "grey" car repair shops provide faster service (9%), and another part (7%) admitted that they do not have enough knowledge about the risks associated with visiting uncertified car repair shops. The survey was conducted in July of this year by the research company Norstat Latvija. A total of 892 residents of Latvia aged 18 to 74 years old, who have a driver's license, took part in the survey.
