The most frequently asked question that we hear from consumers who have been victimized by Auto Dealer Fraud is "How Do They Get Away With It?". We regularly see examples of auto dealers committing fraud, forgery, odometer violations, and the sale of dangerous cars. We also see many examples of credit application fraud by dealers. Many consumers go to on-line review sites after they experience a problem, and they realize that the dealership did the same thing to many other consumers.
Why Does the State Tolerate Auto Dealer Fraud?
Recalled Cars: The Five Minute Exercise That Can Save Your Life
A recent study by the Consumer Federation of America found that there were 70 million recalled cars that were on American roads. "While these open recalls present a clear hazard to the occupants of these vehicles, they are also a hazard to the rest of the driving public," said Jack Gillis, CFA's Executive Director.
Home Improvement Hassles - Dan Blinn in the News
Consumer Prevails in Auto Warranty Claim Involving Certified Car
Pet Lemon Law
Several clients have called us recently with questions about their rights and options when their new puppy is sick. Thankfully, Connecticut is one of 22 states with a Pet Lemon Law. The law applies to cats and dogs that are purchased from a pet shop.
Thinking of Certified Pre-Owned? Maybe think again
Car manufacturers and dealers heavily promote their certified pre-owned vehicles. But, in our experience, certified pre-owned is mostly a marketing gimmick. Although dealerships promise that the certified cars have undergone a stringent inspection, we find that in many cases, either no inspection was performed or defects are overlooked. As a result, many of these "certified" cars are not worth the higher price that dealerships charge for certified pre-owned vehicles.
Checking Your Credit Report
The New Year is a perfect time to check your credit reports. This is especially true if you are thinking of financing a major purchase (such a car or new home) or refinancing a mortgage in 2018. A surprisingly high percentage of credit reports have inaccurate information. And, if there are problems on your report, it is much better to find out about them before you apply for credit.
Unsafe Car Sold by A Better Way Wholesale Autos
The Connecticut Appellate Court has dismissed an appeal filed by an auto dealer, A Better Way Wholesale Autos. In its appeal, the dealership was attempting to throw out an arbitrator's decision that the 2004 Mercedes E 500 that it had sold to a Connecticut consumer was not safe to drive.
Auto Dealer Fraud by A Better Way Wholesale Autos
The Connecticut Appellate Court, in a unanimous decision, recently upheld a decision by a Connecticut Superior Court Judge that A Better Way Wholesale Autos committed auto dealer fraud. The judge had found, following a trial, that the dealership had committed unfair trade practices and defrauded a consumer.
The Way We Buy Cars
Buying a car in America is different from almost any other type of shopping experience. Car dealerships understand this. Unfortunately, many car buyers do not.