Auto Dealer Fraud Lawyer: What to Do If You Were Sold a Vehicle Over the Advertised Price?
Have you ever left a car dealership with a sinking feeling that you may have been misled? Whether you purchased a new or used vehicle, auto dealers must adhere to the advertised price when selling cars. If your car purchase was over the advertising price, feeling cheated is an understatement. You need a lawyer who won’t just sympathize but will fight relentlessly for your rights.
There are common ways a car dealer or dealership’s salesperson may commit dealer fraud or consumer fraud, including misrepresentation of a vehicle’s history, failing to disclose prior accidents, repairs, or if the car was a rental car or had multiple previous owners. Lies about odometer readings, undisclosed fees, inflated payment terms, and hidden costs can all increase the dollars you pay at the time of sale. Some car dealers may also misrepresent certified pre owned vehicles, breach warranty obligations from the manufacturer, or push unnecessary gap insurance. If you suspect any of these unfair business practices or that important information was not properly disclosed or repaired, you may have grounds for a legal claim. Review your paperwork, including the contract and any retainer agreement you sign on the line, and consider seeking compensation for damages, attorney’s fees, and other costs.
California and federal laws protect consumers from dealer fraud and unfair business practices. An auto dealer fraud lawyer can explain the process, review your claim, and guide you through litigation if necessary.
Michael Klitzke and his experienced legal team help clients in all of California obtain justice for unfair vehicle sales and in cases of auto fraud. When it comes to results, ’s track record speaks volumes. Garnering the Best of the Bar award for securing one of the top 100 verdicts in California in 2022 is no small feat – especially when that verdict boasts a six-figure sum. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about justice for those wronged.
Understanding What Is Included In An Advertised Price
Auto dealers are required to sell vehicles at or below the advertised price. The advertised price could be on the dealer’s website, an advertisement on a third-party website like cargurus.com, or on the vehicle itself.
Starting in 2020, dealers have been increasingly forcing consumers to purchase additional products like theft deterrent devices, appearance protection, service and maintenance contracts, GAP and extended warranties. Undisclosed fees, inflated cost, and unnecessary repairs are often included in the final payment, increasing the total cost to the consumer. Many dealers have boldly told customers these additional products are required so that the dealership can make a higher profit.
Nothing prevents a dealer from refusing to sell a vehicle without specified additional items. However, if the dealer requires certain items to be purchased with the vehicle, then those items need to be included in the advertised price. GAP insurance and warranty coverage are often bundled with additional fees, which can be sources of more profit for the dealership. If the dealer says an optional product is required to obtain financing, that is an illegal finance charge. If you were sold a vehicle for more than the advertised price, the auto fraud team at , can help get all of your money back.
Helping You Obtain The Justice You Deserve in Auto Fraud Cases
At Auto Law Firm, PC, attorney Klitzke and his experienced legal team will help you achieve the justice you deserve after being sold a vehicle over an advertised price. With free consultations and a team that fights for clients in San Diego, Los Angeles and across all over California, you are never alone in this battle. To schedule a free consultation, call 619-984-1239 or fill out an online contact form.