Q: Washington State laws on dealership disclosure about vehicle damages to buyers.
I purchased a car from a dealership in Washington State in 2022. Before purchasing, I requested a Car Fax report, which showed that only the windshield and wheel bearings were replaced. The dealership verbally confirmed there was no damage to the car. A month ago, an Experian report revealed there were damages, though not specified as an accident, and it turns out the dealership had reported the windshield and wheel bearings replacements themselves. Since purchasing the car, I've experienced ongoing issues with rapid tire wear and air loss, incurring significant costs. I have documentation from both Experian and the original Car Fax report showing these discrepancies. What actions can I take regarding the dealership's lack of disclosure, and how can I address the ongoing tire issue?
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A:
In Washington State, dealerships are required to disclose any known damages or accidents involving a vehicle they are selling. Since you requested the Car Fax report, which showed only certain repairs, and the dealership verbally assured you there were no damages, they may have misrepresented the vehicle's condition. The discrepancies revealed by the Experian report and the fact that the dealership reported the windshield and wheel bearing replacements themselves could be grounds for a legal claim, as the dealership may not have fully disclosed all relevant information.
To address the ongoing tire issues, you should first gather all the documentation you have, including the original Car Fax report, the Experian report, and any records of the tire wear and air loss. You should contact the dealership again to discuss the problem and ask for a resolution, whether it's a repair, replacement, or reimbursement. If the dealership refuses to cooperate, you may want to file a complaint with the Washington State Attorney General's office, which handles consumer protection matters, or consider taking legal action.
If the issue persists and you're not satisfied with the resolution, you may need to consult with an attorney who handles consumer protection or lemon law cases. They can help you understand your options for pursuing a claim, including potential damages for misrepresentation or the cost of ongoing repairs.
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