AUTO FRAUD

Fraud can arise whenever a car dealer misrepresents an important fact to you, the consumer. There are numerous ways in which consumers can be deceived when purchasing an automobile. Common examples of fraud include lies about the history, condition, and characteristics of a vehicle. Fraud also occurs when a dealership misrepresents other important aspects of a car deal such as the terms of financing, or the terms and conditions of add-ons such as warranties, insurance policies, and other products or services.

Because car deals may include many sources of hidden profits for the dealerships, it can be very difficult for consumers to determine the true cost of any given car purchase. As a result of our 17 years of experience in investigating car deals, we have become very familiar with the tricks of the trade and how to identify auto fraud even when it has been concealed from the consumer.

If you believe you have been the victim of auto fraud, contact our office by Internet, phone, or in person, for a free consultation.

10 ways to avoid being defrauded when you purchase a car

1. Knowledge is Power. Do your homework by comparison shopping.
2. In the case of a used car, learn as much as you can about the history of the car by requesting a complete warranty repair history, by requesting a car fax, and whenever possible, by contacting the prior owner.
3. Be sure to ask the dealership whether the car was in an accident and if so, what parts of the vehicle were repaired.
4. Shop around for the best credit rate. Dealerships have an economic incentive to offer the highest rate rather than the lowest rate available.
5. Read all documents before signing. That includes the fine print.
6. Request a copy of all documents relating to the transaction.
7. Do not sign a binding arbitration clause. By doing so you may waive all of your rights to hold the dealership accountable in court for any wrong committed.
8. Take along a friend. A second set of eyes can be helpful (and may provide corroboration of your story, if you later encounter legal problems).
9. Be careful about the purchase of add-on products. These products are often over-priced and can be the source of exorbitant profits to the dealership.
10. If purchasing a used car, have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic.