Nashua, NH asked in Civil Litigation, Criminal Law and Small Claims for New Hampshire

Q: I was scammed buying a used car and am wondering if there is anything I can do to get my money back? (more info below)

I bought a used car through a private sale. The man who sold the car lied about its condition and guaranteed that it would pass inspection. When I questioned him on guaranteeing NH inspection, he then had a mechanic back him up. He had me meet him at the mechanic shop, and the mechanic said he had just inspected and made sure it was in working order, and even put a sticker on the car and printed an inspection report. So based on this I purchased the vehicle. When I took my car to my mechanic, he did not pass the car, and printed off a long list of safety issues the car had. My mechanic said that the previous mechanic passed the car illegally and had lied about its condition. I have the craigslist ad printed, and the inspection report from the seller's mechanic. I also have a report from my mechanic.

Would I have a case if I brought this to small claims court? Or is there anything I can do? I tried multiple times to reach out to the seller, but he is avoiding me.

1 Lawyer Answer
Joseph Kelly Levasseur
Joseph Kelly Levasseur
Answered
  • Manchester, NH
  • Licensed in New Hampshire

A: You could call your local police department, and the Attorney generals office and file a complaint, they could investigate the allegation and if the mechanic did in fact pass a car and give you an inspection sticker illegally, take away his ability to give them out, fine him, or even charge him with a crime of fraud. You then may have a lawsuit against the seller and the mechanic for conspiracy if in fact it can be proven. If charges are brought and anyone of these guys are found guilty, winning a lawsuit becomes easier. Good Luck!

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