Do I have rights?

[franz27]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA

I recently purchased a used vehicle from a private party seller. I had a few doubts and asked him repeatedly if there was anything I should know about the vehicle. The front plate was crumpled and the fender was a different shade. He said It was just a simple fender replacement and I was dumb enough to take him on his word. The car was not salvaged titled so I presumed it was just a fender job.

I took it to a body shop for an estimate and they told me that the car had been in a major accident. According to them, the front was hit so bad that it was pushed in all the way to the dashboard. I contacted the seller and demanded my money back. He has pretty much done everything but bluntly said that he was not going to pay me back. He keeps saying that he will call when he has the money but never calls unless I initiate contact.

I know I should have known better but do I have any rights to demand my money back and/or perusing legal action?

[Wirelessany1]

Originally Posted by franz27

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA

I recently purchased a used vehicle from a private party seller. I had a few doubts and asked him repeatedly if there was anything I should know about the vehicle. The front plate was crumpled and the fender was a different shade. He said It was just a simple fender replacement and I was dumb enough to take him on his word. The car was not salvaged titled so I presumed it was just a fender job.

I took it to a body shop for an estimate and they told me that the car had been in a major accident. According to them, the front was hit so bad that it was pushed in all the way to the dashboard. I contacted the seller and demanded my money back. He has pretty much done everything but bluntly said that he was not going to pay me back. He keeps saying that he will call when he has the money but never calls unless I initiate contact.

I know I should have known better but do I have any rights to demand my money back and/or perusing legal action?

You really should have excercised your right to have an experienced person look at the vehicle prior to making the purchase. You indicate that the seller told you there was work done to the car and there is a clear title.

I'm very certain that your demands for the money will continue to go unanswered. Unless the seller gave you an explicit warranty or guarantee on the vehicle in writing; the car is sold "as is".

You took it in the shorts on this one. Call it a life lesson.

take care, ana