Legal Question in Consumer Law in Virginia

Used Car Repair

My husband bought a 2001 VW Beetle for my daughter. The day after the paperwork was signed, the check engine light came on. We called the salesman, he asked that we bring the car back. When we brought the car to the dealership, the light wasn't on, and the salesman said that there was nothing that they could do. The check engine light came on again, we returned the car a second time, we were told that a part was replaced, however the dealership wouldnt give us a repair statement, nor could they tell us what had been repaired. Again the light came on, again we returned it to the dealership. They kept it overnight. When we picked the car up the 3rd time, the salesman said that he guarantees that the light will not come on again. I turned the key to the AUX and on position, all of the warning lights lit, with the exception of the check engine light, air bag light and one more light in the same area. I felt that they had disabled the light, so I took the car to a VW dealership, they confirmed that it had been tampered with. Now, what recourse do I have? I dont feel that I should take it back to the people who disabled the light, possibly endangering my daughter. Im at a loss. I would appreciate any advice. Thank You.


Asked on 11/27/06, 3:08 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Used Car Repair

What recourse, you ask? Unless the vehicle is(or was) covered by some warranty, I would surmise not much. As for the engine light shenanigans, I see a problem there with securing credible proof

for your claim and the further problematical issue of your damages, i.e., even if you could prove the former, how in fact was your daughter actually damaged? (And, no, her possible endangerment would not be a basis for recovery of damages.)

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Answered on 11/27/06, 7:31 pm


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