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What is the Car Buyers Bill of Rights?
It is a state law that went into effect on July 1st, 2006 that impacts sales of vehicles made at licensed California car dealers. Although the law impacts both used and new vehicle purchases, it does not apply to off-highway vehicles, motorcycles, or exchanges between private parties.
What are the rights for buyers of new and used cars?
- If warranties and insurance are being financed, dealers must clearly outline and itemize prices for each item.
- Dealer has to give you your credit score and explain how it will be used.
- Limits dealer compensation from the institution that finances vehicle purchases.
- Used car buyers can get a two-day cancellation option written into the contract. The option is only available for consumers who buy a vehicle that's less than $40,000.
- Vehicles sold as "certified" pre-owned in California have to meet stringent requirements.
When can a dealer sell a used car as "certified"?
- Dealer must do a full inspection of vehicle and provide the consumer with a report.
- Odometer must match the true mileage of the vehicle.
- Vehicle cannot have been damaged in a flood, fire, or accident unless it's been fixed up to safe operational condition.
- Vehicle cannot have had frame damage, cannot have a title branded as "lemon law buyback", and; cannot have been repurchased.
- The seller has to provide a complete inspection report of all of the relevant components.
Read more about the fee caps for financing, credit score disclosure requirements and specifics of the cancellation option at the California Department of Motor Vehicles' official website.
If you believe that an unscrupulous dealer violated your rights as a car buyer by selling you a lemon or a misrepresented used car, defend yourself by connecting today with a California lemon car attorney here at the Law Offices of Howard D. Silver. We guarantee ethical and reliable service. For a free half-hour consultation regarding your Lemon Law situation, call us now at 1-866-49-LEMON.