AutoStar Privacy Policy: How We Collect, Use & Protect Your DataPolicy

Auto Star Garage ("Auto Star Service Center," "we," "us," or "our") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting the personal information you share with us. This Privacy Policy outlines our practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of information when you use our website (autostargarage.com) or visit our physical repair facility in Graham, WA.

1. Information We Collect

To provide you with reliable automotive repair and maintenance services, we must collect certain information from you. This includes:

1.1. Personal Identification Information

When you schedule an appointment, request an estimate, or authorize a repair, we may collect your name, phone number, email address, and physical address.

1.2. Vehicle Information

To accurately diagnose and service your vehicle, we collect specific data about your car. This includes your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), license plate number, make, model, year, mileage, and a detailed history of the repairs and maintenance performed at our shop.

1.3. Website Usage Data

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect non-personally identifiable information, such as your IP address, browser type, device type, and the pages you visit. We use this information to analyze website traffic and improve the user experience.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect for the following legitimate business purposes:

• To Provide Services: To properly identify your vehicle, source the correct parts, and perform authorized mechanical repairs.
• To Communicate With You: To send appointment reminders, provide digital estimates, update you on the status of your repair, and send invoices.
• For Record Keeping: To maintain an accurate service history of your vehicle, which is often required to uphold manufacturer warranties.
• To Process Payments: To securely process transactions for the services and parts provided.

3. Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third-party marketing companies. We only share your information in the following limited circumstances:

3.1. Third-Party Service Providers

We may share your data with trusted third-party vendors who assist us in operating our business. This includes our shop management software providers, payment processors, and communication platforms used to send you text messages and emails regarding your vehicle's service.

3.2. Automotive Reporting Agencies

To benefit the future value of your vehicle, we may report completed maintenance and repair services (using your VIN) to vehicle history reporting agencies, such as CARFAX. This helps maintain a documented service record for your vehicle.

3.3. Legal Compliance

We may disclose your information if required to do so by law, such as in response to a subpoena, court order, or to cooperate with law enforcement regarding an abandoned vehicle or mechanic's lien enforcement.

4. Data Security

We implement standard industry practices and utilize secure, encrypted shop management software to protect your personal and vehicle data from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure. However, please be aware that no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

5. Your Choices and Rights

You have the right to control how we communicate with you:

• Opting Out: You may opt out of receiving promotional emails or text messages from us at any time by following the unsubscribe instructions included in those communications, or by contacting us directly. (Note: You cannot opt out of essential service-related communications while your vehicle is in our possession).
• Updating Information: You can review and request updates to your personal contact information or vehicle records by calling our front desk or speaking with a service advisor during your next visit.

6. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to external sites (such as our sales domain at autostarwa.com or external financing applications). Please be aware that we are not responsible for the privacy practices of other websites. We encourage you to read the privacy policies of any site you visit.

7. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update our Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or relevant laws. Any modifications will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date at the top. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.