Consumer Databases
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Auto Repair Source
Offers a wealth of information to help you diagnose, repair, and maintain cars and vehicles. Includes service and repair procedures, diagrams, recall information, specifications, labor estimates, and parts pricing. IPPL cardholders can check out an OBDII automotive diagnostic tool to read and clear check engine lights.
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Consumer Reports
Buying advice, product ratings, reviews, recommendations, money-saving advice and tips, and videos for products including appliances, and electronics.
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Consumers' Checkbook
Contains consumer ratings on businesses and services for the Chicago metro area. Search for plumbers, roofers, doctors, dentists, and more.
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Home Improvement Source
Includes maintenance, remodeling, electrical work, plumbing, wood projects, outdoor improvements, decorating, home and garden from more than 130 reference books.
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Small Engine Repair Source
Repair guides for small engines and routine maintenance (tune-ups, brake service, etc.). Includes guides on extensive repairs such as engine and transmission disassembly. Coverage includes lawnmowers, motorcycles, tractors, and snowmobiles. Information on more than 25 years of engine models, with new and updated content added regularly.
Product Evaluation
Consumer Search - Provides evaluations from many different sources of a variety of products.
Smarter House - Consumer guide to home energy savings. Includes top-rated energy-efficient appliances.
Consumer Protection
AnnualCreditReport.com - This central site allows you to request free weekly credit reports from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Better Business Bureau - Lists business, consumer, and charity alerts. You may also file a complaint online.
CardRatings.com - Sponsored by the U.S. Citizens for Fair Credit Card Terms. It provides consumer ratings of credit cards.
CharityNavigator - Evaluates over 5,000 charities as an aid for consumers in their charitable giving.
Citizens Utility Board (CUB) - Nonprofit, nonpartisan organization created by the Illinois General Assembly to fight utility rate hikes and promote tougher consumer protection laws.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: FAQs - Get the answers to your financial questions on topics ranging from mortgages and student loans to bank accounts and credit scores.
Federal Trade Commission - Consumer Protection - Consumer protection information on credit and loans, identity theft, telemarketing and the Do Not Call registry. File a complaint.
GetHuman - Connect to a live customer service agent faster with these direct phone numbers and shortcuts for thousands of companies worldwide.
Illinois Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division - Offers assistance with consumer fraud and unfair business practices. It provides a downloadable complaint form as well as consumer protection information and alerts.
Illinois Commerce Commission - Resolves consumer complaints with utilities and other entities. It also licenses household movers.
Internet Crime Complaint Center - If you've been a victim of an Internet crime, report your complaint online and learn more about cybercrime activities.
USA.gov - Consumer Issues - Resource for consumers on scams and frauds, complaints, insurance, recalled products, telemarketing, and unwanted mail. You can also download a copy of the consumer action handbook.
