Car Purchase Gone Bad

Two words: due diligence. Never, EVER buy a vehicle sight unseen.
EVER! One exception might be ebaymotors.com as that is a
feedback-based marketplace. Regardless, it is not difficult to hire a
mechanic to inspect the vehicle prior to purchase. Due diligence.

Why did you NOT complain to Audi? After all the dealer did not
manufacture the car, they only facilitated the sale of it. Audi made
it.

Did you fly halfway around the country and then not even bother to
drive it down the street to an independent mechanic for a second
opinion? If not, shame on YOU. Due diligence. Hope you don't ever
make such a foolish mistake again.

Sounds like the blame should go in this order: #1) YOU for investing
thousands of dollars to purchase this car and airfare, meals, etc...
and then NOT spending an extra $100 bucks to have a second opinion.
Blame #2 should go to AUDI, as they made a car that didn't last
forever. See how well that works.

I don't know of a single dealership that would tell you "NO" if you
asked to take it to a mechanic for a closer look. If they did, then
they would have something to hide. If they do, no worries.

Seriously, due diligence. It's not a difficult concept.

just curious was this car of very light blue in color or light grey.
if so give me a shout, I purchased a vehicle there in August 2008, and
when i returned a few days later for some issues, my son test drove
the audi and it was pouring oil out of the engine. if this is the
same vehicle, they new the engine was no good. i can be reached at
cowboyup6961@gmail.com to discuss.

This same dealership sent my entire finance package to a previous
customer, luckily for me the guy called me and mailed me my paperwork.
And the dealership made no apologies.

The purchase was in FL. Here's what I found:

http://www.800helpfla.com/lemonlaw.html

Specifically: "The Florida Lemon Law applies to NEW or demonstrator
motor vehicles which are sold or leased in the State of Florida. With
a few exceptions, a previously titled vehicle (used car) is not
covered by the Lemon Law."

So, unless there's something I don't understand (possible), it doesn't
sound like lemon laws cover this.

However, I think there's a question regarding whether or not there was
fraud or misrepresentation. A call to the AG seems in order, at least
to see if the signature of the "As Is" document releases the dealer
from any liability. Most AG's won't handle cases on behalf of
individuals, but they will forward complaints to a business and keep a
copy of the complaint on file. If this dealer has pulled this many
times before, this could be the nail in the coffin for the AG to take
action.

I also wonder if the fact that the payment was made from out of state
helps or hinders the OP. Seems like there are interstate commerce
laws that could come into play, even if the FL laws don't. Anyone
know?

There are websites such as "myride.com" and carfax.com along with some
others that are easily found on the internet that lists a vehicles
history that includes envolved in an accident, had major repairs, etc.


The site you used, Autotrade.com, has carfax.com listed under its used
care section. Why would you not take advantage of this to get the cars
history before you purchased it? Especially if it was being sold "as
is"?
It would have been much cheaper than what you are out now.

By the way, If I were you I would reverse the charges. That puts the
ball back into their court. If they would like to then sue then it
will be there time and expense not yours.

I certainly sympatize but you need to use common sense. Never ever
buy something out of state site unseen. YOu rolled the dice here and
lost.

With that said, you should save the add you they posted. If it said
the car was in "excellent condition" you do have a leg to stand on.
You should file a complaint with DA's office closets to the dealership
and file a complaint with the BBB. If you want to get all your money
back you will need to file a small claim civil suit againt the
company. Of coure this means you must fly out for the court date but
given how much you spent it may be worth your time. If you have proof
they represented the car was in good condition and has no problems
I'll give you a 75% chance you'll win the case.

James

I'm sure there are cars for sale in your area (without flying out).
Yes, you had your heart set on a certain car but patience is a virtue
or one must re-evaluate the "wants" versus the "needs". Buyer beware
and I am sorry you had to learn this expensive lesson.

You purchased a used vehicle sight unseen without having a mechanic
certify it and further, willingly signed an "as is" form after
noticing a "small crack" (whatever that is) and took delivery of the
vehicle knowing it didn't have a warranty.

I looked at the Coral Palm Auto Sales website and their "Internet
Special Offers" (three vhicles) are all listed in "mint condition"
which I find suspicious.

I'm sorry, but you gambled and lost and I seriously doubt that you
have much recourse.

Some states have "Lemon Law". Meaning if you get a crap deal with a
car, you may be able to get ALL your money back. But I think you have
to prove they knew it was bad. Sounds to me (I am NOT a lawyer or
have really anything to do with the law. Just watch WAY too many
"judge shows") they might have known. That and with the car breaking
down the NEXT day, you may win here.
My suggestion, contact PFB and get this pulled (it could come back
and hurt you) and contact a lawyer. Check in to the Lemon Laws. Good
luck!

I think Lemon Laws only apply to new cars direct from the dealer (that
came direct from the manufacturer).

I think you're out of luck on this used car purchase, OP. Had you a
warranty and not an "as is" document, there may be recourse, but as
other posters point out, there really is no match for an in-depth
mechanic's review prior to your purchase.

Lesson learned?

I'm still baffled that anyone would buy a used car over the phone and
fly out to get it.

Wow.

I watch too much Judge Judy and People's Court.

many cases like this, the plaintiff loses, because used car sales are
almost always "as is". If you had not sign the document, they would
not have sold the car to you.

granted, a 24 hour later mess like the OP describes is rare, however,
based on my very limited knowledge, he bought it as is, and has no
recourse (which sucks IMHO)

John D.,

You bring up some good points.

IMHO signing the No Warranty . As Is Document was a major mistake.

It appears that you did not have the car inpsected by a reputable
mechanic prior to purchase not that he/she would be able to see all
this coming.

With reagrd to selling of cars we need to read all the details, review
the pictures. However, these activities in no way replace a mechanics
check and indepth personal review.

Now that you have posted this for all to see please come back and let
us know what action your letter generates.

BillR.

I believe you have recourse. Contact your card company and ask them
what they can do to help. You should also contact the Attorney
General's office in Florida.
Good luck, and please keep us updated on what happens.