The market for auto repair is also regularly cited as one of the more scammy, consumer-unfriendly experiences around - because consumers have a very difficult time assessing quality of service, and incremental charges often pop up mid-purchase.

This is why consumers love warranties and extended-warranties on their vehicles so much - it means they leave this problem to their insurer. It's easier to insure cars than people, though - your risk is essentially bounded by the market value of the car.