Car Purchase

I wasn't sure where to post this as a co-worker told me about this site.

Recenty my son was forced to buy a new car out of state(FL), because his car broke down. I met up with him in Orlando for family vacation and found several things wrong with the car.

- Tires were severly worn ( almost no tread on them)
- All the necessary fluid levels were extremly low.
- The windshild wiper blades were too dull to do any good.

I am wondering if it is legal for a dealership to sell a car in this condition. I feel it was extremly unsafe for anyone to buy a car in this condition. I know my son was not careful in his chocie, but I understood since it was the first car he purchased by himself with no family present. Is there anything he can do?

The car was bought in FL and with no warrenty.

Please help.

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You could try to ask for a full refund saying that the vehicle had major structural damage etc. from the beginning, and it has never been fixed properly--but it will not be an easy case if it went to small claims or other court, and some courts may say you should have had it inspected at the time etc. If they knew of the problem in any way however and hid it from you they could be liable and even be penalized for bad faith--that may be the best argument for you to make--They also likely do not want any bad publicity so even the threat of a lawsuit could help persuade them.

What is the first thing m son should do? He will be leaving FL Friday.

Also, the check engine light has been comming on and off.

Just for your info, in the future, always test-drive a vehicle.
· Always have a mechanic inspect a used car before buying it.
· Ask for the repair records. If the dealership doesn’t want to provide it, then buy your car elsewhere.
· You can check a vehicle’s prior registration history by using a vehicle history report search service like Carfax (www.carfax.com).

I am sure that your son signed an "AS IS" form at the dealer. You should not try to hold the dealer responsible for your son's bad decision. Apparently his choice of vehicle prior to this purchase wasn't the best. As it left him stranded in Florida in the first place. I would be willing to bet that he will make a purchase like this again if he doesn't learn to be a responsible consumer!! Don't shift the blame...educate him!!