Thursday, May 31, 2007

State's auto lemon law can relieve a car buyer's sour experience

Making lemonade out of lemons

Monday, February 26, 2001

By Patricia Sabatini, Post-Gazette Staff Writer

For the first two years that Tracy Magiske owned her shiny new 1996 Chrysler Sebring convertible, it was in the shop 30 times. The 30-year-old Jefferson Hills resident said the brakes kept failing, and Chrysler couldn't repair it. Finally, worried about a serious accident, she just stopped driving the car.

Attorney Craig Thor Kimmel represents auto buyers who believe their cars to be lemons. (Darrell Sapp, Post-Gazette)
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Early this month, nearly four years after leaving the showroom, Magiske got some good news. A Pittsburgh jury agreed her car was a lemon and ordered DaimlerChrysler to buy it back.

Although Magiske's case had a happy ending, she didn't have to wait four years to seek relief.

Under Pennsylvania's auto lemon law, if a substantial defect isn't repaired after three attempts or the vehicle is out of service for a total of 30 days, it's considered a lemon and the owner is entitled to a refund.

"The law is very specific and very simple," said Craig Kimmel of Kimmel & Silverman in suburban Philadelphia. It represented Magiske and is one of the largest lemon law practices in the country.

As long as the defect pops up for the first time within one year or 12,000 miles of purchase, the owner is covered.

Although car makers often fight it, they're required to repurchase a lemon or replace it, whichever the customer chooses. Most motorists opt for buy-backs because they don't want to continue driving the same type of car, Kimmel said.

Kimmel, 37, a Montgomery County native who said he got into the lemon law business because of his love for cars, said roughly 75 percent of calls he gets from consumers turn out to be legitimate cases.

Like most lemon law attorneys, Kimmel works strictly on contingency. If the consumer wins, the law requires the car maker to pay the attorney's fees. If the manufacturer prevails, he doesn't get paid.

Under the law, a defect is defined as any problem that "substantially impairs the use, value or safety" of the vehicle. That can include anything from a steering problem to water leaks or a bad paint job, he said.

"If you try to sell your car with obvious paint defects [such as bubbling or cracking], the car is worth less. That's a substantial impairment of the value."

Because the car maker has three tries to fix each defect, three trips to the shop for separate engine, transmission and brake problems wouldn't qualify.

In some instances, however, a motorist could have a claim after just one visit.

If the dealer flatly refuses to repair a defect, "the law would not require you to go back and hear the word "no" two more times," said Kimmel, whose firm has handled about 15,000 lemon law cases, mostly in Pennsylvania, since it was formed 10 years ago.

Problems that clearly don't qualify include things such as a broken dome light, chrome that keeps falling off or simple thumps and rattles, such as a noisy convertible top, he said.

It's also hard to prove a case based on poor gas mileage.

"If the car is getting 5 miles per gallon when it should be getting 40, that's the kind of spread you'd need" to have a solid case, Kimmel said.

The firm also gets calls from people wanting to sue for pain and suffering or lost wages, but the lemon law doesn't allow for such recoveries.

When manufacturers buy back a vehicle, they deduct 10 cents for every mile it was driven before the defect first appeared. For a lemon that started having engine trouble at 5,000 miles, for example, the offset would be $500.

In Magiske's case, DaimlerChrysler will pay more than $23,000 for her Sebring, which covers the value of her trade-in, the down payment, loan payments to date and paying off the loan. The mileage deduction was $734.

Kimmel's firm also has filed two class-action lawsuits. One alleges that 1999 Mitsubishi Galants' front brake rotors wear out prematurely. The second involves certain 1998-2000 Audi Quattro models that run out of gas even though the gas gauge shows plenty of fuel.

Audi issued a bulletin telling more than 48,000 Quattro owners to ignore the fuel gauge and buy gas based on the number of miles they drive, Kimmel said, a suggestion he calls "ridiculous."

The Pennsylvania Legislature is considering a number of changes to the 17-year-old lemon law, such as expanding coverage to leased vehicles and extending the deadline for reporting the first defect beyond the current one-year/12,000-mile limit.

Both measures are sorely needed, Kimmel said.

"Back when the lemon law was enacted, most manufacturers' warranties were only 12 months. Now, three years/36,000 miles is the standard," he said. "If you have a three- or four-year warranty, why should your rights change after one year when the manufacturer is still on the hook to fix that car?"

And with so many people leasing vehicles these days -- roughly 35 percent of new car consumers -- Kimmel believes it's time to cover them, too, although he noted that drivers of both leased and used vehicles can sue for breach of warranty under a federal statute known as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.

The House's Consumer Affairs Committee is set to hold public hearings in March on possible changes to the lemon law.

So what should consumers do if they think they have a lemon?

First, keep good records, Kimmel said. "The more documents, the easier it is to show that your problems haven't been resolved."

Keep all repair invoices and make sure the description of the problem matches your complaint. "If it doesn't, make sure it's changed."

Some dealerships may try to steer you away from a lemon law claim by convincing you that multiple repairs are unrelated when they actually involve the same defect, Kimmel said.

Writing letters to the manufacturer may help get problems resolved more quickly, he said. Also, try meeting with the local manufacturer's representative.

Although the dealer or manufacturer may try to convince you otherwise, you aren't required to go through the manufacturer's mediation/arbitration process before pursuing a claim, he said.

Kimmel recommends reducing your chances of getting a lemon in the first place by doing your homework and choosing a vehicle with a good warranty, safety and repair record.

And when you're ready to pick up your new car, demand that it be perfect.

"That's when you have the most strength, the most leverage to get what you pay for," Kimmel said. "Try the air-conditioning, the radio, the tilt wheel, everything imaginable, check it. Don't take delivery until all problems are resolved."

It's also important to pay attention to "fit and finish" items, such as paint scratches, squeaky doors or windows that stick. "Those are given the least consideration after the sale," he said.

Above all, if you're having a problem, don't give up.

"Demand what you paid for," Kimmel said. "The manufacturer builds into every price 15 to 30 percent to cover the cost of warranty repairs. You've actually paid for the warranty when you buy the car."

Pursuing your rights under the lemon law can be a frustrating experience.

"That's why firms such as mine have been able to thrive," he said.

"It's really like pulling your own tooth out in front of the medicine cabinet. That's how painful it can be."

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Buying Tips

Getting Some Lemon-Aid From Your Lemon Maker
By Neil G. Chirico
Email
We hope that you never actually have a reason to read an article about Lemon laws. But if you do, we'd like to make this unpleasant and at times complex subject seem a little less daunting, putting a little hope back in the sour situation of living day to day with a dreaded "lemon."

Repeat after us in your best Forrest Gump accent, "Mama always says, turn those lemons you are given into lemonade."

To that end, let's try to pare your lemon from the tree. First, we have to determine if you even have a lemon, after all it could just be a bad apple (yes, pun intended). We'll try to point you in the right direction, to either proceed yourself or to seek professional legal advice.
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.Magnuson-Moss — What's it all about?
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty act is a Federal Law that protects the buyer of any product that costs more than $25 and comes with an express written warranty. Nearly all state Lemon Law Statutes are similar to the Federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. All states have enacted their own Warranty Acts and many have enacted specific statutes that cover automobile warranties. If your vehicle is not considered a "lemon" in your state, you may have another recourse. To find out more about the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, click on the link below.

www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_99/16cfr700_99.html

I Think My Car Is A Lemon! Now what?
Before we can address that, we must first determine if the vehicle is eligible for Lemon Law. The vehicle must be used part of the time for personal, family, or household purposes. If the vehicle is used exclusively for business purposes, the Lemon Law will not apply, but other laws may. Laws do vary from state to state and between new, used and leased vehicles. Generally, the vehicle must have defects covered by a warranty. Check the "State by State Lemon Law Information" link listed for your state's information.

www.autopedia.com/html/HotLinks_Lemon2.html

A "lemon" is a vehicle that continues to have a defect or defects that substantially impair its use, value, or safety. In general, if the vehicle has had a "reasonable" number of repair attempts for the same defect within the warranty period, and the defect has not been repaired, the vehicle qualifies as a "lemon." The term "reasonable number of repair attempts" varies depending on the defect, and also varies by state. Safety-related defects, typically, require fewer repair attempts than non-safety defects to be considered a "reasonable number of repair attempts." Keep in mind, though, if it is not covered by a warranty, it is not covered by Lemon Law.

OK, I think I may have a case; what's next?
The first thing to do is to make absolutely sure that when you bring the vehicle in for service, the service advisor writes up your concern on the repair order, exactly as you describe it. Before you sign the repair order, check the date, time in, and odometer reading to verify they are correct. If you do find discrepancies, have them changed before you sign the repair order. When you pick the vehicle up, review the correction done for each concern, date, time, and mileage out. If the concern continues, make sure that you describe the concern exactly the same way on each repair visit or you may forfeit your rights under the "reasonable attempts to repair for the same defect" clause. In most states you have Lemon Law coverage if the vehicle has been in the repair shop for an accumulative number of days, so keep records of this information as well. If you have a failure that leaves you stranded, record the date, time, mileage, if you rented a vehicle and the amount of time you had to wait for assistance. The emotional trauma you experience in dealing with a defective vehicle does have bearing on your case should you proceed to arbitration or court.

Do I need legal counsel?
After your state's requirement for number of repair attempts, or days out of service, has been met, some states require that you send a letter to the manufacturer (use certified mail) to give them one last chance to repair the vehicle. Be sure to keep copies of any letters, and originals of any documents requested, for your records. Again, check your state's laws to see what applies in your area. In some states, with proper documentation, you simply file a complaint. In others, you should hire an attorney. Keep in mind that you can use arbitration before proceeding to court. Consumers do not need to hire an attorney to go through the arbitration process, although you are allowed to use one, and in some states you can be awarded attorney's fees if you win. Some states have arbitration that is manufacturer-run and in others it is a state-run program, which is preferable to one run by the manufacturer. Arbitration is legally binding on the manufacturer only, in most states. You can always proceed to court if you do not get the results you were expecting.

How much can I expect to pay for legal counsel?

Most attorneys take this type of case on a contingency or semi-contingency basis. Only some of the states allow you to recover attorney fees; again, check with your state's laws. If your attorney sues under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, the dealer or manufacturer is responsible for attorney fees if you win. Attorney fees in this case are based on time spent as opposed to percentage of recovery, and some states limit the amount an attorney can recover for their time spent on your case. According to California Attorney Kurt Delsack, most attorneys will be selective in choosing to take on a case, but the ones they do take on have a high percentage of winning. In some states, you are responsible for dealer or manufacturer attorney fees if you do lose.

Do I get the same kind of vehicle if the manufacturer buys the car back?
If your vehicle is determined to be a "lemon" under the law, you are entitled to a refund or "comparable replacement vehicle." A "comparable replacement vehicle" is defined as either identical or a reasonable equivalent. A refund includes your purchase price, taxes, and any dealer-installed options, minus an offset for your usage of the vehicle, again with variances from state to state.

What happens to my Lemon once the manufacturer buys it back?
This will also vary from state to state, but in California the titles are branded "Lemon Law Buyback" according to Evan Nossoff of the California Department of Motor Vehicles. The Lemon Law defect is then repaired and the vehicle is offered for sale. The selling dealer of the vehicle must also disclose to the potential purchaser that it is a Lemon Law Buyback vehicle and the nature of the Lemon Law defect(s). According to Attorney David J. Farrell, in California, you are also given a Lemon Law Warranty to cover the defect for 12 months and unlimited mileage, plus the remainder of the manufacturer's warranty, if applicable. There is a potential for a "Lemon Law Buyback" vehicle to not be sold as such. If the vehicle is transferred from one state to another, the state the vehicle is newly titled in may not recognize the previous state's title branding. In many cases, A VIN check can find a Lemon Law branded title from other states. To check for a possible branded title, click on the link to the Edmunds.com homepage and follow the "Free Carfax Lemon Check" link to find out.

http://www.edmunds.com/

What to do, what to do?
We have just touched on the basics of Lemon Law Warranties, but you can see that the most important thing to remember is to document everything. Check with your state's Attorney General Office concerning your Lemon Laws. You, the consumer, have rights and we want to make sure that you get to enjoy the sweet taste of lemonade and not just the bitter bite of lemon.

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Tuesday, April 3, 2007

Lemon law lawyer can make or break your case

Lemon law lawyer can make or break your case
Every state has a lemon law to help consumers with problem vehicles. The system is designed to be a sort of a self-service sort of thing, but sometimes you can benefit tremendously from having a lawyer. They’re not necessary, but a lawyer could be the difference between winning and losing your case..
.Lemon law attorneys not necessary, but they could make a difference
Since their introduction in the early 1980’s, thousands of Americans have benefitted from the auto lemon laws enacted in all fifty states. The statutes were passed in order to help consumers with problems associated with habitually broken or defective automobiles, and on the whole, they have been successful. The system, as it stands now, is designed so that consumers with problem vehicles can address the problem themselves. But there are times when it may not only be useful to hire an attorney, but times when having a lawyer may make all the difference in the world.
Here are some examples of how hiring an attorney can help you with a lemon law case:
They can shorten the process - There are three times in the process when a manufacturer may offer a refund or replacement: when you first contact them about the problem, after you win an arbitration case, or after you win a lawsuit. Some manufacturers may feel more likely to win their case if you do not have legal representation. Having an attorney on your side, especially one with a good track record of handling lemon law cases, may inspire the manufacturer to settle your case sooner, rather than later.
Arbitration favors the manufacturer - All of the major auto companies make arbitration available for consumers with problem vehicles। The system, on paper, appears to be fair and impartial, but it often isn’t. By some estimates, manufacturers win up to 90% of arbitration cases. That shouldn’t be a surprise; arbitrators of manufacturer-supported programs are paid by the manufacturers. Many consumers give up their cases after losing in arbitration, but consumers who follow up losing arbitration cases with lawsuits often win them. Having an attorney, especially after losing arbitration, is vital.

They don’t necessarily cost too much - Most states permit consumers with lemon law claims to receive attorney fees in addition to restitution for their defective vehicles. Should you win your case, the manufacturer will pay your attorney. It’s a win-win situation for you.
Your attorney can advise you when your case is poor - Some states do not permit consumers to collect attorney fees in lemon law cases. Worse, some states require the consumer to pay the manufacturer’s attorneys should the manufacturer prevail. Since these fees can exceed the value of the automobile, there are times when pursuing a case in court is not a good idea. An experienced lawyer will know when you shouldn’t continue.
Consumers are always permitted to follow through on defective vehicle complaints on their own, without legal representation. In some cases, particularly if the evidence is overwhelmingly obvious, representation may not be necessary. In other cases, particularly when the manufacturer is being difficult, it may well be worth your time to speak with an experienced attorney. Use your best judgment.
If you have a pickup truck, van, or automobile, you need to protect your investment. Vehicle insurance is steep, but why pay a lot if you don't have to? InsureMe can produce a speedy price quote from an insurance company for you in your area at a price that is competitive.

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California lemon law for in-state buyers only

California lemon law for in-state buyers only
A recent court ruling affects Californians who purchase vehicles out of state for in-state use. They may find that they have little or no protection under the state lemon law..
.California Lemon Law will not protect out of state buyers
The cost of a new vehicle is higher than it has ever been, and prices continue to go up. Along with that is the increase in the price insurance and gasoline. Add it all up, and you will find that the cost of buying and owning a car is quite expensive. Savvy consumers shop around to find the best deal and are often rewarded for their hard work. In the case of residents of California and other highly taxed states, the price of sales taxes adds considerably to the cost of buying a new vehicle. Again, savvy shoppers have found a solution to this problem - buy the vehicle out of state and drive it home.
That seems like a good idea. After all, a 2% decrease in the sales tax on a $25,000 car means a savings of some $500, which will buy a few tanks of gas, even at today’s prices. The savings are even more significant if the vehicle in question is a $250,000 motor home. There may be a downside to this system, however. A recent court ruling by the California Supreme Court has ruled that the California lemon law applies only to vehicles actually purchased within the state.
This may come as a strong blow to Californians, who enjoy the first, and one of the most powerful, lemon laws in the United States. Consumers who buy their vehicles out of state, bring them home, and then find out that they have nonconformities that prevent them from being repaired will find out that they have no protection under California law. Worse, they may have no protection under any law. Most state lemon laws require that the vehicles be purchased in that state। In addition, most lemon laws require that anyone filing a claim under the law must also be a resident of that state. This may leave buyers who purchase a vehicle and drive it to another state out of luck.

Attorneys for the state of California called the ruling fair, pointing out that enforcing the statute costs money, and that it doesn’t seem reasonable for the law to represent buyers who don’t pay the sales taxes that support it.
Vehicle warranties will still apply, of course, and if the problems with the vehicle can be repaired under warranty then they will be covered. In addition, owners of these vehicles may pay for any additional repairs not covered under warranty. They are not, however, entitled to replacement or refund should the repairs be unable to permanently resolve the problem.
The savings encountered when purchasing a vehicle in a neighboring, lower-taxed state may be significant. Anyone planning such a purchase should be aware, however, that the savings may turn out not to be all that significant if the vehicle turns out to be defective. A $5000 savings on a defective, useless quarter of a million dollar motor home is no bargain. Buyers should exercise caution.
If you own a car, van, or pickup truck, you should protect your investment. Vehicle insurance is expensive, but why pay a lot if you don't have to? InsureMe can submit an immediate price quote from an insurance company near you at a competitive price.

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Sunday, March 18, 2007

2006 Car Complaint Index

2006 Car Complaint Index

Thanks to consumer advocate Jack Gillis, author of the 2006 Car Book, and the efforts of the Center for Auto Safety, we are able to provide you with the vehicle complaints on file with the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTA). Each year, thousands of Americans call their government to register complaints about their vehicles. The federal government collects this information but has never released it to the general public. The complaint index is based on a ratio of the number of complaints for each vehicle to the sales of that vehicle. The numbers represent relative index scores, not the number of complaints received. The complaint index score considers sales volume and years on the road. Lower index numbers are better. For more information on The 2006 Ultimate Car Book, click here.

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The 2006 Projected Car Complaint Ratings

MODELCOMPLAINT INDEX RATIO
Dodge Magnum34,477
Ford GT27,905
Suzuki Verona26,081
Pontiac GTO25,023
Land Rover LR319,939
Chrysler 30018,405
Buick Terraza17,190
Nissan Armada16,146
Nissan Quest16,063
Toyota Prius15,938
Volkswagen Touareg12,588
Nissan 350z12,360
Chevrolet Corvette12,016
Chrysler Pacifica11,944
Chevrolet Equinox11,764
Pontiac Montana SV611,673
Nissan Titan10,835
Acura RL10,305
Scion tC10,000

For more information on the NHTSA consumer complaint database, click here.

Reprinted with permission from The 2006 Ultimate Car Book, 26th edition by Jack Gillis. 2006 All Rights Reserved. Information presented here does not reflect the opinions of Kimmel & Silverman, PC, its attorneys or its staff.

For an outline of lemon laws across the nation, click here.

If you have questions about State Lemon Laws or Federal Warranty Laws, email us by clicking here. Be sure to include your daytime phone number, including area code.

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Lemon Law Advocates Kimmel & Silverman Honored as Pennsylvania Super Lawyers for Third Year in a Row!

Lemon Law Advocates Kimmel & Silverman Honored as Pennsylvania Super Lawyers for Third Year in a Row!

Founding Partners were honored for building the State’s oldest and largest lemon law firm and helping to recover $135 million for distressed drivers throughout the region.


.For Immediate Release - For the third year in a row, Robert M. Silverman and Craig Thor Kimmel, founding partners of the Ambler and Pittsburgh-based lemon law and consumer advocacy firm of Kimmel & Silverman, have been named Pennsylvania Super Lawyers in a survey conducted by Law & Politics Magazine. The findings are published in the June 2006 edition of Philadelphia Magazine. More than 34,000 attorneys were asked to vote for the most effective counsel they have personally observed in action. Kimmel and Silverman were recognized among the top 5% of all attorneys statewide for building Pennsylvania's oldest and largest full-service lemon law firm, and assisting more than 40,000 distressed drivers across the Northeast with cost-free legal representation.

Kimmel & Silverman is the only lemon law firm in the nation to be honored by the American Bar Association. Their efforts have been featured on Good Morning America, Extra, The CBS Early Show, and hundreds of newspapers and magazines including Kiplingers Personal Finance Magazine, Consumer Reports, Automotive News, Black Enterprise, and USA Today. The Firm, which started out of a small office in Blue Bell, PA in 1991, has grown to include six full-service offices across Eastern and Western Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts and Delaware with a team of 21 attorneys, four certified automotive experts and a support staff of over 40 employees. The firm’s attorneys have also successfully represented consumers against several automotive manufacturers in national class action suits, and expanded their practice to include automotive dealer fraud claims and unfair trade practice litigation.

In addition, Kimmel & Silverman is the only lemon law firm in the state to work with the House of Representatives in expanding the Pennsylvania Lemon Law to include leased cars and tighter title provisions for used cars. The firm is currently working with the Consumer Affairs Committee on House Bill 2284, which they hope will become the nation’s first Computer Lemon Law, and recently testified on bills to include additional protection for Pennsylvania consumers with motorcycles and recreational vehicles.

This is the most recent honor for Kimmel & Silverman. For two years in a row, Robert Silverman has also been named a New Jersey Super Lawyer, becoming the first lemon law attorney in the nation to be honored as a Super Lawyer in two states simultaneously, representing the top 5% of all attorneys in both states. Lemon Law attorneys Jacqueline Herritt, Shannon M. Ryan, Lous M. Dobi and Amy D. Cox have also been recognized by the magazine. This also marks the third year Micah Buchdahl, nationally known as “The Internet Marketing Attorney,” has named the Firm’s website, www.lemonlaw.com as one of the best legal websites nationwide.

Kimmel & Silverman has six full-service offices in Ambler, PA; Pittsburgh, PA; Wilmington, DE; Owings Mills, MD; Norwell, MA; and Cherry Hill, NJ. For more information about Kimmel and Silverman, and the services they provide, please call 1-800-LEMON-LAW (1-800-536-6652) or visit the firm’s website at www.lemonlaw.com.

Read about our experienced team of Lemon Law Attorneys.

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Saturday, March 17, 2007

Judge rules in favor of woman despite failure to follow letter of law

Wisconsin was an early adopter in vehicle lemon laws, creating a law to benefit consumers in 1984. The state’s law, like similar laws in many states, allows an owner of a defective vehicle to seek replacement or a refund in cases where a vehicle proves unrepairable over a specific period of time.

In the case of one woman, a resident of Hartland, that law ended up costing Mazda nearly one third of a million dollars.

The case seems fairly straightforward - Adele Garcia purchased a 2001 Mazda SUV. After a short period of time, the transmission failed. After numerous repairs, the vehicle ended up having four different transmissions, and none of them seemed to work correctly. She sought protection under the Wisconsin lemon law, and thought that the matter would be resolved quickly.

It should have been, but the Mazda dealership required Ms. Garcia to pay some $2200 in exchange for receiving a new car. Ms. Garcia hired a lawyer.

At this point, the case became quite complicated, and before it was over, Mazda had to pay $60,000 to Ms Garcia, $138,000 to her attorney and an estimated $100,000 to their own attorneys. All because they elected not to simply swap vehicles.

The legal wrangling involved a piece of minutiae in the law. Ms. Garcia wrote a letter to Mazda, asking for a replacement vehicle under the lemon law. According to Mazda, while she did do that, she did not expressly offer to sign over the title of her existing vehicle to Mazda in exchange for receiving the new vehicle. It seems obvious to most observers that if someone asks to have their vehicle “replaced” via the lemon law, that they would, in turn, give up the existing vehicle as part of the exchange. Apparently, the Wisconsin statute specifically requires the vehicle owner to offer to sign over the title of the existing vehicle in writing when making a request for a vehicle replacement. Ms. Garcia did not do that.

The judge in the case reacted in a reasonable manner, pointing out that while the law exists to help consumers, it is unreasonable to expect consumers to “carry statute books under their arms.” He ruled that while the law clearly states that the offer to sign over the title in exchange for a replacement vehicle must be made, it is also clear that a request for a replacement vehicle adequately implies an offer to sign over the title of the defective vehicle.

It seems unfortunate that such a small amount of legal language should have held up replacement of this vehicle for several years, but that is how the court system often works. What seems truly odd is that Mazda wouldn’t have examined potential costs of this case ahead of time. It seems obvious, even to a casual observer, that replacing the vehicle, with or without an explicit offer to sign over the title, would have been much more cost effective than litigating the case. Even if Mazda had won the case, the company would have been out much more money than if they had simply replaced the SUV in the first place.

There is a lesson here for consumers. Read the lemon law carefully, and if you have an doubts about the statute, consult an attorney who specializes in lemon law cases.

If you have a van, car, or pickup truck, you should cover your investment. Auto insurance is expensive, but why pay a lot if you don't have to? InsureMe can provide a quick price quote from an insurance company near where you live at a reasonable rate.

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California lemon law aided by Bill of Rights

California lemon law aided by Bill of Rights

California’s lemon law, one of the first in the nation, has now been “accessorized” by the addition of the Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights, which will aid those who buy used cars.

Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights a big help for used car buyers

California became the first state in the country to pass an auto “lemon law” in 1982, and that pioneering legislation remains one of the most powerful, consumer-friendly laws in the country. It has, without a doubt, saved millions of dollars in headaches for consumers who have been troubled by defective automobiles who would otherwise have had to just “live with it.” Unfortunately, the California lemon law covers new cars only, and those who purchase used cars in California have still been expected to take risks. What if the car has hidden defects? What if the seller knows something bad about the car that he or she isn’t saying? Until now, the sole responsibility fell upon the buyer.

Signed into law by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in late July, the Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights offers a significant change in the way used cars are sold in California। Buyers will now have the option of returning a used vehicle to the point of purchase after a two day “cooling off” period. This gives buyers an opportunity to get to know their vehicles and, with luck, a chance to find any defects or problems with the vehicle that were either unknown or undisclosed at the time of sale.


Those in the used auto industry have expressed concern over the legislation, which has been steadily refined over the past several years. As originally written, the law would allow any buyer to return a car after two days with no charge and no penalty. This, dealers argued, would effectively allow consumers to “borrow” a car for two days for free, spawning fears that people who just needed a car for a weekend trip to Palm Springs would “borrow” one rather than rent one.

The legislature listened to these concerns and others and addressed them in the new law. Buyers will pay a fee in order to enable the return privilege. This fee may not exceed $250. This will still give buyers the opportunity to save a bit of money should they be willing to take the traditional risks associated with buying a used vehicle. In addition to the upfront fee, dealers will be permitted to charge a restocking fee for any returned vehicle. This fee is capped at a maximum of $500. The law applies to all used cars of under $40,000, including certified used cars.

While the law allows consumers to return a car for any reason at all, the bill does require that the vehicle in question be driven no more than 250 miles during the cooling off period. This is an attempt to further restrict consumers from simply “borrowing” the car for two days.

Legislators hope that this new law will add more transparency to the process of selling cars and will entice sellers to be more forthright about any problems the vehicles on their lot might have. There’s no point in hiding a defect if the consumer has the right to find it and return it two days later. In addition, consumers are now protected against “buyer’s remorse”, should they decide, for whatever reason, that buying the vehicle just wasn’t a good idea.

This law seems like a good compromise, protecting consumers against fraud while protecting dealers against abuse by buyers. We hope to see similar laws passed in other states soon.

If you have a car, van or truck, you must insure your investment. Auto insurance may be pricey, but why pay too much if you don't have to? InsureMe can provide a speedy price quote from an insurance company near where you live at a price that is competitive.



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Wisconsin Lemon Law Statutes

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Wisconsin Lemon Law Statutes

Chapter 218.015
  1. 218.015(1) (intro.) In this section:

    1. 218.015(1)(a) "Collateral costs" means expenses incurred by a consumer in connection with the repair of a nonconformity, including the costs of obtaining alternative transportation.


    2. 218.015(1)(b) (intro.) "Consumer" means any of the following:

      1. 218.015(1)(b)1. The purchaser of a new motor vehicle, if the motor vehicle was purchased from a motor vehicle dealer for purposes other than resale.


      2. 218.015(1)(b)2. A person to whom the motor vehicle is transferred for purposes other than resale, if the transfer occurs before the expiration of an express warranty applicable to the motor vehicle.


      3. 218.015(1)(b)3. A person who may enforce the warranty.


      4. 218.015(1)(b)4. A person who leases a motor vehicle from a motor vehicle lessor under a written lease.

      218.015(1)(bd) (bd) "Demonstrator" means used primarily for the purpose of demonstration to the public.

      218.015(1)(bg)
      (bg) "Early termination cost" means any expense or obligation a motor vehicle lessor incurs as a result of both the termination of a written lease before the termination date set forth in that lease and the return of a motor vehicle to a manufacturer under sub. (2) (b) 3. "Early termination cost" includes a penalty for prepayment under a finance arrangement.

      218.015(1)(bj)
      (bj) "Early termination savings" means any expense or obligation a motor vehicle lessor avoids as a result of both the termination of a written lease before the termination date set forth in that lease and the return of a motor vehicle to a manufacturer under sub. (2) (b) 3. "Early termination savings" includes an interest charge the motor vehicle lessor would have paid to finance the motor vehicle or, if the motor vehicle lessor does not finance the motor vehicle, the difference between the total amount for which the lease obligates the consumer during the period of the lease term remaining after the early termination and the present value of that amount at the date of the early termination.

      218.015(1)(bp)
      (bp) "Executive" means used primarily by an executive of a licensed manufacturer, distributor or dealer, and not used for demonstration to the public.


    3. 218.015(1)(c)"Manufacturer" means a manufacturer as defined in s. 218.01 (1) (L) and agents of the manufacturer, including an importer, a distributor, factory branch, distributor branch and any warrantors of the manufacturer's motor vehicles, but not including a motor vehicle dealer.


    4. 218.015(1)(d) "Motor vehicle" means any motor driven vehicle required to be registered under ch. 341 or exempt from registration under s. 341.05 (2), including a demonstrator or executive vehicle not titled or titled by a manufacturer or a motor vehicle dealer, which a consumer purchases or accepts transfer of in this state. "Motor vehicle" does not mean a moped, semitrailer or trailer designed for use in combination with a truck or truck tractor.


    5. 218.015(1)(e) "Motor vehicle dealer" has the meaning given under s. 218.01 (1) (n).

      218.015(1)(em)
      (em) "Motor vehicle lessor" means a person who holds title to a motor vehicle leased to a lessee, or who holds the lessor's rights, under a written lease.


    6. 218.015(1)(f) "Nonconformity" means a condition or defect which substantially impairs the use, value or safety of a motor vehicle, and is covered by an express warranty applicable to the motor vehicle or to a component of the motor vehicle, but does not include a condition or defect which is the result of abuse, neglect or unauthorized modification or alteration of the motor vehicle by a consumer.


    7. 218.015(1)(h) (intro.) "Reasonable attempt to repair" means any of the following occurring within the term of an express warranty applicable to a new motor vehicle or within one year after first delivery of the motor vehicle to a consumer, whichever is sooner:

      1. 218.015(1)(h)1. The same nonconformity with the warranty is subject to repair by the manufacturer, motor vehicle lessor or any of the manufacturer's authorized motor vehicle dealers at least 4 times and the nonconformity continues.


      2. 218.015(1)(h)2. The motor vehicle is out of service for an aggregate of at least 30 days because of warranty nonconformities.


  2. 218.015(2)

    1. 218.015(2)(a) If a new motor vehicle does not conform to an applicable express warranty and the consumer reports the nonconformity to the manufacturer, the motor vehicle lessor or any of the manufacturer's authorized motor vehicle dealers and makes the motor vehicle available for repair before the expiration of the warranty or one year after first delivery of the motor vehicle to a consumer, whichever is sooner, the nonconformity shall be repaired.


    2. 218.015(2)(b)

      1. 218.015(2)(b)1. If after a reasonable attempt to repair the nonconformity is not repaired, the manufacturer shall carry out the requirement under subd. 2. or 3., whichever is appropriate.


      2. 218.015(2)(b)2. (intro.) At the direction of a consumer described under sub. (1) (b) 1., 2. or 3., do one of the following:

        1. 218.015(2)(b)2.a. Accept return of the motor vehicle and replace the motor vehicle with a comparable new motor vehicle and refund any collateral costs.


        2. 218.015(2)(b)2.b. Accept return of the motor vehicle and refund to the consumer and to any holder of a perfected security interest in the consumer's motor vehicle, as their interest may appear, the full purchase price plus any sales tax, finance charge, amount paid by the consumer at the point of sale and collateral costs, less a reasonable allowance for use. Under this subdivision, a reasonable allowance for use may not exceed the amount obtained by multiplying the full purchase price of the motor vehicle by a fraction, the denominator of which is 100,000 or, for a motorcycle, 20,000, and the numerator of which is the number of miles the motor vehicle was driven before the consumer first reported the nonconformity to the motor vehicle dealer.


      3. 218.015(2)(b)3.

        1. 218.015(2)(b)3.a. With respect to a consumer described in sub. (1) (b) 4., accept return of the motor vehicle, refund to the motor vehicle lessor and to any holder of a perfected security interest in the motor vehicle, as their interest may appear, the current value of the written lease and refund to the consumer the amount the consumer paid under the written lease plus any sales tax and collateral costs, less a reasonable allowance for use.


        2. 218.015(2)(b)3.b. Under this subdivision, the current value of the written lease equals the total amount for which that lease obligates the consumer during the period of the lease remaining after its early termination, plus the motor vehicle dealer's early termination costs and the value of the motor vehicle at the lease expiration date if the lease sets forth that value, less the motor vehicle lessor's early termination savings.

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a Federal Law that protects the buyer of any product which costs more than $25 and comes with an express written warranty. This law applies to any product that you buy that does not perform as it should.

Your car is a major investment, rationalized by the peace of mind that flows from its expected dependability and safety. Accordingly, you are entitled to expect an automobile properly constructed and regulated to provide reasonably safe, trouble-free, and dependable transportation – regardless of the exact make and model you bought. Unfortunately, sometimes these principles do not hold true and defects arise in automobiles. Although one defect is not actionable, repeated defects are as there exists a generally accepted rule that unsuccessful repair efforts render the warrantor liable. Simply put, there comes a time when “enough is enough” – when after having to take your car into the shop for repairs an inordinate number of times and experiencing all of the attendant inconvenience, you are entitled to say, ‘That’s all,’ and revoke, notwithstanding the seller’s repeated good faith efforts to fix the car. The rationale behind these basic principles is clear: once your faith in the vehicle is shaken, the vehicle loses its real value to you and becomes an instrument whose integrity is impaired and whose operation is fraught with apprehension. The question thus becomes when is “enough”?

As you know, enough is never enough from your warrantor’s point of view and you should simply continue to have your defective vehicle repaired – time and time again. However, you are not required to allow a warrantor to tinker with your vehicle indefinitely in the hope that it may eventually be fixed. Rather, you are entitled to expect your vehicle to be repaired within a reasonable opportunity. To this end, both the federal Moss Warranty Act, and the various state “lemon laws,” require repairs to your vehicle be performed within a reasonable opportunity.

Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a warrantor should perform adequate repairs in at least two, and possibly three, attempts to correct a particular defect. Further, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act’s reasonableness requirement applies to your vehicle as a whole rather than to each individual defect that arises. Although most of the Lemon Laws vary from state to state, each individual law usually require a warrantor to cure a specific defect within four to five attempts or the automobile as a whole within thirty days. If the warrantor fails to meet this obligation, most of the lemon laws provide for a full refund or new replacement vehicle. Further, this reasonable number of attempts/reasonable opportunity standard, whether it be that of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or that of the Lemon Laws, is akin to strict liability – once this threshold has been met, the continued existence of a defect is irrelevant and you are still entitled to relief.

One of the most important parts of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is its fee shifting provision. This provision provides that you may recover the attorney fees incurred in the prosecution of your case if you are successful – independent of how much you actually win. That rational behind this fee shifting provision is to twofold: (1) to ensure you will be able to vindicate your rights without having to expend large sums on attorney's fees and (2) because automobile manufacturers are able to write off all expenses of defense as a legitimate business expense, whereas you, the average consumer, obviously does not have that kind of economic staying power. Most of the Lemon Laws contain similar fee shifting provisions.

You may also derive additional warranty rights from the Uniform Commercial Code; however, the Code does not allow you in most states to recover your attorney fees and is also not as consumer friendly as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or the various state lemon laws.

The narrative information on Magnuson-Moss, UCC and lemon laws on these pages is provided by Marshall Meyers, attorney.


Uniform Commercial Code Summary

The Uniform Commercial Code or UCC has been enacted in all 50 states and some of the territories of the United States. It is the primary source of law in all contracts dealing with the sale of products. The TARR refers to Tender, Acceptance, Rejection, Revocation and applies to different aspects of the consumer's "relationship" with the purchased goods.

TENDER -
The tender provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code contained in Section2-601 provide that the buyer is entitled to reject any goods that fail in any respect to conform to the contract. Unfortunately, new cars are often technically complex and their innermost workings are beyond the understanding of the average new car buyer. The buyer, therefore, does not know whether the goods are then conforming.

ACCEPTANCE -
The new car buyer accepts the goods believing and expecting that the manufacturer will repair any problem he has with the goods under the warranty.

REJECTION -
The new car buyer may discover a problem with the vehicle within the first few miles of his purchase. This would allow the new car buyer to reject the goods. If the new car buyer discovers a defect in the car within a reasonable time to inspect the vehicle, he may reject the vehicle. This period is not defined. On the one hand, the buyer must be given a reasonable time to inspect and that reasonable time to inspect will be held as an acceptance of the vehicle. The Courts will decide this reasonable time to inspect based on the knowledge and experience of the buyer, the difficulty in discovering the defect, and the opportunity to discover the defect.
The following is an example of a case of rejection: Mr. Zabriskie purchase a new 1966 Chevrolet Biscayne. After picking up the car on Friday evening, while en route to his home 2.5 miles away, and within 7/10ths of a mile from the dealership, the car stalled and stalled again within 15 feet. Thereafter, the car would only drive in low gear. The buyer rejected the vehicle and stopped payment on his check. The dealer contended that the buyer could not reject the car because he had driven it around the block and that was his reasonable opportunity to inspect. The New Jersey Court said;

To the layman, the complicated mechanisms of today's automobile are a complete mystery. To have the automobile inspected by someone with sufficient expertise to disassemble the vehicle in order the discover latent defects before the contract is signed, is assuredly impossible and highly impractical. Consequently, the first few miles of driving become even more significant to the excited new car buyer. This is the buyer's first reasonable opportunity to enjoy his new vehicle to see if it conforms to what it was represented to be and whether he is getting what he bargained for. How long the buyer may drive the new car under the guise of inspection of new goods is not an issue in the present case because 7/10th of a mile is clearly within the ambit of a reasonable opportunity to inspect. Zabriskie Chevrolet, Inc. v. Smith, 240 A. 2d 195(1968)

It is suggested that Courts will tend to excuse use by consumers if possible.

REVOCATION -
What happens when the consumer has used the new car for a lengthy period of time? This is the typical lemon car case. The UCC provides that a buyer may revoke his acceptance of goods whose non-conformity substantially impairs the value of the goods to him when he has accepted the goods without discovery of a non-conformity because it was difficult to discover or if he was assured that non-conformities would be repaired. Of course, the average new car buyer does not learn of the nonconformity until hundreds of thousands of miles later. And because quality is job one, and manufacturers are competing on the basis of their warranties, the consumer always is assured that any noncomformities he does discover will be remedied.
What is a noncomformity substantially impairing the value of the vehicle?

  1. A noncomformity may include a number of relatively minor defects whose cumulative total adds up to a substantial impairment. This is the "Shake Faith" Doctrine first stated in the Zabrisikie case. "For a majority of people the purchase of a new car is a major investment, rationalized by the peace of mind that flows from its dependability and safety. Once their faith is shaken, the vehicle loses not only its real value in their eyes, but becomes an instrument whose integrity is substantially impaired and whose operation is fraught with apprehension".
  2. A substantial noncomformity may include a failure or refusal to repair the goods under the warranty. In Durfee V. Rod Baxter Imports, the Minnesota Court held that the Saab owner that was plagued by a series of of annoying minor defects and stalling, which were never repaired after a number of attempts, could revoke, "if repairs are not successfully undertaken within a reasonable time", the consumer may elect to revoke.
  3. Substantial Non Conformity and Lemon Laws often define what may be considered a substantial impairment. These definitions have been successfully used to flesh out the substantial impairment in the UCC.

Additional narrative information on Magnusson-Moss, UCC and lemon laws on these pages is provided by T. Michael Flinn, attorney.

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Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Pittsburgh Lemon Law

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Pittsburgh Lemon Law

Pittsburgh Lemon Law Help by a leading Pittsburgh Lemon Law Firm

Pittsburgh Lemon Law firm of David J. Gorberg & Associates located in the heart of Pittsburgh has been providing free Pittsburgh lemon law help to consumers of defective lemon cars. The firm is a leading Pittsburgh lemon law firm and has helped thousands of consumers obtain lemon law relief throughout the Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania area.

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The lemon law firm is widely recognized as a leader in the field of lemon law and has educated Pittsburgh consumers through our award winning internet site. The firm's offices are located at the 2325 Grant Building, 330 Grant Street in the heart of Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh lemon law office allows the firm to better serve it's growing base of clients throughout western Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania lemon law, also locally known as the Pittsburgh Lemon Law is intended to protect consumers of lemon cars with a remedy in the form of a refund or replacement car. If your car is a lemon, you may be eligible for a refund, new car or cash back. All fees are paid by the manufacturer, so you have nothing to lose except your lemon car.

The PA Lemon Law was enacted to protect the Pennsylvania consumer, however the Law is complicated and is subject to various interpretations. Pittsburgh Lemon Law Attorney David J. Gorberg, located in Pittsburgh, PA provides free help to PA consumers of lemon cars throughout the state.

The state lemon law applies to all vehicles sold or leased throughout Pennsylvania. Even though many people refer to the law as the Pittsburgh lemon law, the law is actually a state act, and is not just limited to Pittsburgh. The firm has represented Pittsburgh lemon law clients, Pittsburgh lemon law clients and many clients throughout the state. You do not have to live in Pittsburgh in order to have a valid lemon law claim.

PA lemon law covers all new and leased cars which contain a nonconformity which the dealer is not able to repair after three repair attempts, or is out of service by more then thirty days. The law defines a nonconformity as a defect, or condition which substantially impairs use, value or safety. The law requires the nonconformity to exist within one year or 12,000 miles which ever comes first. To see a copy of the law click here.

David J. Gorberg is PA's and Pittsburgh lemon law attorney, and has been recognized both nationally as a leader in the field of lemon law. David J. Gorberg has tried numerous PA lemon law cases to successful lemon law verdicts and has represented many Pittsburgh lemon law clients through out the state of Pennsylvania. To see a list of our recent PA lemon law cases click here.

To learn more about your PA Lemon Law rights for your defective lemon car call toll free 1-800-MY LEMON (1-800-695-3666), or submit a free PA Lemon Law evaluation at no cost to you. There never a fee to you of our assistance. Join the thousands of clients who have obtained relief today!

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Warranty Comparison

Pennsylvania Lemon Law
Warranty Comparison - Lemon Law help

Pennsylvania Lemon Law


MAKE BASIC
POWERTRAIN
CORROSION
ROADSIDE
Years Miles Years Miles Years Miles Years Miles
Acura 4 50,000 4 50,000 5 Unl. 4 50,000
Audi 4 50,000 4 50,000 12 Unl. 4 Unl.
BMW 4 50,000 4 50,000 6 Unl. 4 50,000
Buick 3 36,000 3 36,000 6 100,000 3 36,000
Cadillac 4 50,000 4 50,000 6 100,000 4 50,000
Chevrolet 3 36,000 3 36,000 6 100,000 3 36,000
Chrysler 3 36,000 3 36,000 5 100,000 3 36,000
Daewoo 3 36,000 5 60,000 5 Unl. 3 36,000
Dodge 3 36,000 3 36,000 5 100,000 3 36,000
Ford 3 36,000 3 36,000 5 Unl. 3 36,000
GMC 3 36,000 3 36,000 6 100,000 3 36,000
Honda 3 36,000 3 36,000 5 Unl. --- ---
Hyundai 5 60,000 10 100,000 5 100,000 5 Unl.
Infiniti 4 60,000 6 70,000 7 Unl. 4 Unl.
Isuzu 3 50,000 10 120,000 6 100,000 5 60,000
Jaguar 4 50,000 4 50,000 6 Unl. 4 50,000
Jeep 3 36,000 3 36,000 5 100,000 3 36,000
Kia 5 60,000 10 100,000 5 100,000 5 60,000
Land Rover 4 50,000 4 50,000 6 Unl. 4 50,000
Lexus 4 50,000 6 70,000 6 Unl. 4 Unl.
Lincoln 4 50,000 4 50,000 5 Unl. 4 50,000
Mazda 3 50,000 3 50,000 5 Unl. 3 50,000
Mercedes-Benz 4 50,000 4 50,000 4 50,000 Unl. Unl.
Mercury 3 36,000 3 36,000 5 Unl. 3 36,000
Mitsubishi 3 36,000 5 60,000 7 100,000 3 36,000
Nissan 3 36,000 5 60,000 5 Unl. --- ---
Oldsmobile 5 60,000 5 60,000 6 100,000 3 36,000
Plymouth 3 36,000 3 36,000 5 100,000 3 36,000
Pontiac 3 36,000 3 36,000 6 100,000 3 36,000
Porsche 4 50,000 4 50,000 10 Unl. 4 50,000
Saab 4 50,000 4 50,000 6 Unl. 4 50,000
Saturn 3 36,000 3 36,000 6 100,000 3 36,000
Subaru 3 36,000 5 60,000 5 Unl. 3 36,000
Suzuki 3 36,000 3 36,000 3 Unl. 3 36,000
Toyota 3 36,000 5 60,000 5 Unl. --- ---
Volkswagon 4 50,000 5 60,000 12 Unl. 4 50,000
Volvo 4 50,000 4 50,000 8 Unl. 4 Unl.

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Warranty problems

Warranty problems

A warranty is a promise

A warranty is a seller’s promise that a product will perform as intended. The warranty tells what items the seller will pay to fix after the sale, and for how long. A vehicle may have a "manufacturer warranty" that obligates the manufacturer to pay the cost of certain repairs. Or it may have a "dealer warranty" that obligates the dealer to pay. If a car comes with a warranty, you are entitled to get the warranty in writing from the dealership. Read the warranty carefully to learn what is covered, for how long, who pays for the repairs, and what you must do to keep the warranty in effect.

New and used car warranties

All new cars come with a manufacturer warranty. Tires, batteries, and dealer-installed options may have separate manufacturer warranties.

Some used cars come with a warranty. The Wisconsin buyers guide (used car window sticker) shows whether the used car comes with a "dealer limited warranty," or remaining "manufacturer warranty." If the vehicle comes with remaining manufacturer warranty, consult the warranty book or ask the seller what you need to do to have the warranty transferred into your name.

Many used cars come with no warranty at all. These cars show "AS-IS - NO WARRANTY" on their window sticker. When you buy a car as-is, the dealer and manufacturer are not responsible for paying for repairs after the sale.

What to do if your car needs warranty repairs

If your car needs repairs under a dealer warranty, consult the warranty or selling dealer to find out which repair shops are authorized to do your warranty repairs. If it needs repairs under a manufacturer warranty, you may take it to any dealer authorized to sell your make of car.

Dealer Section can help

Occasionally the dealership fails to repair your car as the warranty promises, or charges you for repairs covered by the warranty. If this happens to you, you may contact Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Dealer Section at (608) 266-1425 or by e-mail at dealers.dmv@dot.state.wi.us to learn more about filing a dealer complaint. Dealer Section can help you get your warranty repairs done as promised in the warranty.

To file a complaint against a dealership

Complete WisDOT’s MV2338 PDF Dealer Complaint Form. Mail the form to WisDOT Dealer Section at the address below. Attach readable copies or originals of documents related to your vehicle purchase or lease. Include a copy of your warranty or the part of the warranty that relates to your vehicle problem. WisDOT will use the information you provide to resolve your complaint and enforce the laws. It may share the information with the dealer you name in your complaint. Under Wisconsin’s open records law, your complaint will be available for public review upon request.

Note: If your complaint is about unsatisfactory repair work that is not covered by a warranty, contact the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection at (800) 422-7128 or by e-mail at datcphotline@datcp.state.wi.us. You can also file a complaint with DATCP online.

About Dealer Section

WisDOT Dealer Section licenses, regulates and educates the motor vehicle industry, and resolves disputes about dealership sales and warranty repairs. It also investigates complaints about odometer tampering involving dealerships and private sellers.

If you have questions:

Wisconsin Department of Transportation
Dealer Section
4802 Sheboygan Avenue, Room 201
P.O. Box 7909
Madison, WI 53707-7909

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