Legal Question in Consumer Law in Pennsylvania

My daughter purchased a 2001 VW Golf at a used car lot in Pennsylvania. The car was not sold as is and there was no paper signed saying it was bought as is. A few miles away from the lot the Check Engine light came on. The man we called at the dealer told us to drive it and bring it back Monday they will take care of the problem. They have had it repaired several times now and every time the Check Engine light comes back on. This car was only driven 3500 miles since she has bought it. Several months have gone by and the state inspection has run out and we can not inspect it because of the light being on. Anything we can do?


Asked on 6/11/10, 2:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Rachel Hunter

Cars are either sold "as is" or with a warranty. If there is no warranty, then I am afraid that it is "as is." Car dealers have no obligation to fix a problem. They are not insurers and there are many mechanical issues which can appear. However, some car dealers are sleazy and a consumer has to watch out and take steps to protect him or herself. Did your daughter have this car inspected by an independent mechanic before she bought it? Did she get a CARFAX report? Have her take the car to an independent mechanic NOW and find out what is wrong with the car and not just with the check engine light. Many things could be making the check engine light come on. Get it checked out by an ASE certified mechanic. There are even ways to get the light turned off so that the car will pass inspection.

Your next move will depend on what the independent examination reveals. You may want to get the car repaired. Or you may want to get rid of it and start again and possibly sue the dealer if he violated the law. Before buying a used car, ALWAYS get a CARFAX report and have the car inspected by your own independent mechanic. It will be worth the aggravation in the long run.

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Answered on 6/15/10, 6:32 am


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