Legal Question in Consumer Law in Minnesota

Unknowingly traded stolen car at dealer, HELP!

I purchased a vehicle on eBay a few years ago, the title check turned out ok and I proceeded with the purchase. The vehicle was located in PA. I drove it for 2.5 years before trading it to a local dealer in August 05. The dealer allowed me about $16k for the trade on the $29k vehicle I was buying. In January of this year, I am informed by an investigator that the vehicle I owned for that period was a stolen one, and the VIN had been stripped and replaced with the VIN of a salvaged vehicle. The Carfax report I ran did not show any salvage, theft, or other history. They even backed it up with a buyback guarantee, which I registered in my name. A couple weeks ago I am contacted by the dealer with a letter requesting reimbursement of the $16k they allowed me on trade for that vehicle. After speaking with investigators, I find out the man I bought it from was in jail, and had been selling numerous stolen vehicles on eBay.

What protection do I have in this case, being that I was the victim of fraud? My insurance company denied my claim for protection, and I realy need some well educated opinions here.


Asked on 4/11/06, 9:51 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

David Anderson Anderson Business Law LLC

Re: Unknowingly traded stolen car at dealer, HELP!

I would need to see the Carfax agreement and do some investigation re: seller of vehicle (to you).

There may be a PO or court administrative process to obtain restitution.

Call or e-mail for further assistance.

I am a former prosecutor.

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Answered on 4/11/06, 10:24 pm


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