Defective Car Sales

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WHAT ARE THE SIGNS THAT THIS IS A SCAM?

You go to a small used-car dealership to purchase a vehicle. The salesperson allows you to drive a vehicle for a short period of time, and urges you to complete the purchase the same day before another buyer 'snatches the car up.' Shortly after you take the car home, you are forced to make costly repairs to the vehicle in order to keep driving it.


 HOW CAN CONSUMERS PROTECT THEMSELVES?
Take the car for an extensive test drive on several different terrains, and operate the vehicle's windshield wipers, lights, radio, heat and air conditioning, horn, etc. to ensure that you won't be stuck with these minor repairs right away. Have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle before you finalize the purchase.

Anyone selling more than five (5) motor vehicles in any calendar year must be a licensed dealer. Check online to see the status of a dealer's license.

Request the opportunity to have the car inspected/evaluated by a mechanic of your choice prior to purchasing the vehicle.

Insist on seeing the title to the vehicle to make sure there are no liens on the vehicle. Ensure that the title to the vehicle is in the name of the dealer that is offering the vehicle for sale.

Do not agree to any sale until you have had time to thoroughly review the contract. Be wary of phrases such as "wear and tear items not included", and request a detailed description of what is, and is not, covered by the vehicle's warranty. Many used cars are sold "as is," meaning that there is no warranty coverage. Your paperwork will include a page disclosing whether the vehicle purchased is "as is" or includes a warranty. If you are offered a warranty or extended service contract at an additional cost, be sure to understand what is covered, what costs you may be responsible for and where you can take your vehicle for service.

Never feel pressured to make an immediate decision. Shop around at multiple dealerships and look at a number of cars. Do your research on issues such as cost and value, safety, reliability, etc. for the vehicle makes and models that you are considering.

Ohio lemon law does not cover used cars. However, ask the dealer if the vehicle has ever been returned because of lemon law defects or complaints. Also ensure that the vehicle has been inspected for collision damage and repairs, and has been found to be without. Amend the warranty to include both these statements, and ask the dealer to sign off, in order to have recourse should you have problems with the vehicle.


HOW TO REPORT IF YOU'VE BEEN A VICTIM
Ohio Attorney General's office: If you've believe you've been misled about the used vehicle you purchased, contact the Ohio Attorney General's office (800-282-0515).

Better Business Bureau (BBB): You should also submit a complaint to BBB (513-421-3015 or www.cincinnati.bbb.org) to report the problem and to receive assistance with resolving the dispute.

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles: If you feel the dealer has given you fraudulent information regarding your used car, file a complaint with the Ohio BMV (614-752-7500 or www.bmv.ohio.gov):

                Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
                ATTN: Investigations
                P.O. Box 16784
                Columbus, Ohio 43216-6784