Consumer Rights in Vehicle Sales: What to Do If You Were Sold a Different Model Year Car

Buying a car from a dealership or private seller can be a significant investment. However, issues can arise when the vehicle you receive is not the one you expected, particularly concerning the model year. This article will guide you through the steps to take if you discover you were sold a different model year vehicle from what was agreed upon.

Understanding Your Rights

When purchasing a used car, due diligence is essential. You must verify the car's model year, VIN, and other important details before finalizing the deal. For new vehicles, the registered title should match the model year. If the bill of sale and the title do not match, you should immediately report the issue to your state’s motor vehicle agency or the Department of Transportation (DOT).

Steps to Take

1. **Verify the Title and Bill of Sale**: Check the bill of sale and the vehicle’s title for the correct model year. If the information does not match, take immediate action to resolve the discrepancy.

2. **Contact the Dealer**: If the issue is with a new vehicle, contact the dealership and request a correction. The dealer should exchange the vehicle for the correct model year as you specified.

3. **Dealer Responsibility for Older Vehicles**: For older vehicles, it is reasonable that the salesperson might not know the exact model year. If you purchased an older car (e.g., a 1997 Honda Civic expecting a 1997 model but received a 1996 model), due diligence is on you to verify the purchase. Make sure the vehicle's VIN matches the one on the sales contract.

Pre-Signing Checks

Before signing any documents, thoroughly inspect the vehicle. Pay attention to the following:

Check the car's appearance for scratches, missing accessories, and discrepancies in color or model. Verify the VIN on the car matches the VIN on the sales contract and any other documentation provided by the dealer.

This step is crucial to ensure that the car you are buying is the one you have agreed to purchase.

Conclusion

If you discover that the vehicle you received is not the one you paid for, take immediate action. Your consumer rights depend on the type of vehicle, whether it is new or used, and the specific circumstances of the sale.

For new vehicles, the dealership has a responsibility to ensure the correct model year is provided. For older used vehicles, you have a reasonable duty to verify the purchase. In either case, carefully document any discrepancies and immediately address the issue with the appropriate parties.