The guide is intended to help consumers who have already bought flawed goods or services. The consumer encyclopedia describes the legal aspects and remedies of such common problems as automobile repairs, credit problems, debt collection, door-to-door sales, and landlord-tenant problems. The 'how to fight back' section presents a 10-rung ladder arranged in order of power and includes 26 strategies and consumer protection groups. Strategies encompass such actions as making consumer protection groups: telephone complaints, writing complaint letters, trade associations and the Better Business Bureau, using federal complaint agencies, and taking legal action. Other tactics involve getting assistance from consumer groups and from the media, and using advanced complaint tactics. A list of the most serious consumer complaints is headed by automobile repairs and automobile sales. A gripe card showing what bothers consumers most and appropriateness, clearness, and timeliness of Federal agency responses are appended.