I bought [something] from [a DSM vendor], and I'm having problems with it. What should I do?

[Note: the information discussed below defines a 'DSM vendor' as an established legal business that sells parts or services for DSM cars, and not private individuals selling parts or services.]

Mistakes do happen, and most vendors are dedicated to fixing problems quickly. If you're having problems with a part you purchased from a vendor, you need to do the following:

• Understand the problem. Phoning the vendor with complaints like "It doesn't work!" or "It doesn't fit!" is not helpful.
• Examine the parts you bought. Do they look like the right parts? Do they appear like they should fit your car? Do they have the right model numbers? If not, perhaps you got parts for a different car by accident.
• Obtain the receipt for the purchase, so the vendor knows what you're talking about. If you can't find it, write down exactly what you bought (with model numbers, if you can find them).
• As soon as possible, fax or e-mail the vendor a letter containing details of the purchase, a detailed description of the problem, and your contact information.
• Phone the vendor during their normal business hours after sending the fax. Understand that many vendors are extremely busy and it may take time for them to get back to you. Be patient.
• Explain the problem in detail, referring to the fax you sent. Be prepared to re-fax the letter.

Usually by this time the vendor has enough information to figure out what happened and fix it. Options include exchanging the part for another, returning the part for correction, changing the installation method to make the part work, obtaining missing or corrected hardware to allow proper installation, or returning the part for a refund.