Legal Question in Consumer Law in New Jersey

Responsible for car?

I recently sold a car (Early Feb.) On March 30 I was told and threatened that''I better fix it the car'' The car was a 1988 with 180,00 miles and sold for $700. They claim they have only had it on the road for a week and put 200 miles on it. I told them I would look at it. I was accused of doctoring the car. Finally, the purchaser came around and apoligized for the threats and asked if I could do something for them. Since they were a family friend of my co-woker I agreed to help with repairs to the car at no charge (I am a mechanic) if they paid for the parts. They agreed. I then ripped the engine apart to find the problem and it would cost a little over $100 for the parts. They now tell me that they are getting another car and want to just sell the car back to me for $400. The way it was phrased was like they are doing me a favor and like I have no choice. I have witnesses that will agree with me that there was nothing wrong with this car when I sold it and there is nothing wrong with the car that would show ''doctoring'' as they called it. My question is: Am I held responsible for this car in any way? I did not make any guarantees or warranties.


Asked on 4/13/02, 11:53 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Geoffrey G. Gussis, Esq. Riker, Danzig LLP

Re: Responsible for car?

What did you agreement with the person say? Why did you repair the vehicle? You can make a warranty without putting it in writing - especially since you are in the trade yourself. My advice would be to cut your losses and the next time you sell the car you put it in writing.

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Answered on 4/15/02, 10:00 am


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