What to Do if: You Have Been Lied to about Your Used Car
April 29, 2011 by Cliff
If you are the victim of used car fraud, you are not entirely helpless. Certain laws, rules and regulations have been put in place to help protect you against unscrupulous used car dealers. By knowing your rights and acting upon them, you may be able to receive at least some compensation from the dealer.
What the Dealer has to Disclose
Many car buyers mistakenly take the phrase “Buyer Beware” at face value. They assume that if they did not properly inspect the car or ask the right questions, the dealer is under no obligation to bring any faults to their attention.
In some cases this is true. When buying a used car, you should take precautions. Never buy a car without first checking the vehicle history report, test driving it and having it inspected by a mechanic.
However, the used car dealer cannot intentionally misrepresent the car or hide the facts. Car dealerships are required by law to disclose all material known facts. You may have a case against a dealership if they do not disclose the following information:
- The car was previously owned or used as a demo
- The car has been in an accident
- The odometer reading is not accurate
- The car was used as a rental
- The car was a Lemon Law buy back
Understand Your Right
To put it simply, you do have rights when you buy a used car. Unfortunately, your rights will vary based on the state where you bought the car. If you suspect you have been lied to about your used car, it is best to:
- Review your purchase contact: Read the contract carefully. There may be some language in the contract that entitles you to a refund or free maintenance.
- Contact the dealer: The used car dealer may not have intentionally lied. You should bring the mistake to their attention. They may surprise you by working to correct their mistake. Regardless of their decision, make sure you keep a detailed record of any contact you have with them.
- Get Legal Advice: Seek the advice of a legal professional immediately. Just the simple presence of an attorney may convince the car dealer to provide you with compensation.
Category: Buying Cars, General
Comments
7 Responses to “What to Do if: You Have Been Lied to about Your Used Car”
Молодые проститутки Киева, такие же прекрасные как цветы в Киеве. Насладитесь их незабываемой компанией.
what if I bought a certified pre-owned vechile and it has not been serviced as said?
Hi Cindy,
Can you tell me more about your experience?
Thanks.
Maurina Venturelli
Social Media Manager, Usedcars.com
What if I bought a used car on Saturday and was told the value of it was $18,000, but the blue book value says $12,659?
Hi Sham,
Unfortunately there is nothing we can do. You might be able to ut a deal with the car dealership directly, but most always, the sale is final.
Cheers,
Maurina Venturelli
Social Media Manager, Usedcars.com
We bought a car yesterday (4-3-12) we asked if the car had a salvaged title and were told no. My finacee asked to see the car fax and the dealer said yes, but just read it to him. I just went on car fax and it was reported as a total loss vehicle.
Is there anything we can do?
Hi Cassie,
I am sorry for your bad experience. When purchasing a car, most of the time, all sales are final.
Best,
Maurina Venturelli
Social Media Manager, Usedcars.com