Legal Question in Consumer Law in Michigan

Purchased a Car and the engine fried the next day

I purchased a car on Wednesday, 01/10/2005 and on Saturday, 01/12/2005 oil poured out of the bottom of the engine. Turns out that the oil seal came loose on the cam shaft. On 01/19/2005 I had the leak repaired along with a water pump and some timing belts for a cost of $700.00

It also turns out that from January 2000 to January 2003, Honda had a recall and service bulleting out that stated that anyone who owned this type of vehicle with this type of engine could have the repair done for free but only during this time frame.

The person we purchased this Honda from apparently never took the time to get the repair done.

I am wondering if I have any recouse to at least collect some of the cost for having the oil leak repaired.

My son who is 16 purchased the car with his own hard earned savings and now to have another $700 expense is very frustrating.

Dave J.


Asked on 1/20/05, 4:25 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Rochelle Guznack Law Offices of Rochelle E. Guznack, PLLC

Re: Purchased a Car and the engine fried the next day

I need a good deal more information before I can give you any type of reliable answer. How old is the car? Who did you buy it from? How much did you pay for it? Did you buy it with any warranties or "as is?" Did you have a mechanic check out the vehicle before you (or your son) purchased it? If you purchased a used car from a private individual, unless that person made specfific representations about the condition of the vehicle, you probably bought the vehicle "as is" and you, therefore, have no recourse against the seller ("caveat emptor"). If the seller did not know about the problem, he probably should not be held responsible.

If you purchased the vehicle from a dealership, your remedies may be different.

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Answered on 1/21/05, 8:29 am


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