Being ripped off with a used car

[batistuta699]

I purchased a used car for an agreed fee of $1400 with $500 down and the rest to be paid when he repaired and replaced various parts (only agreed verbally - but I have an eye witness). I paid him the rest and realised he hadnt made the repairs he agreed to do to the car. I returned the car the next morning and he agreed to do the repairs/replacements he said he would - 2 weeks later he still hadnt. However, he eventually, with an eye witness present agreed to pay me my money back within 10 days in 2 x $700 installments. He then paid me 2 x $400 installments after 2 weeks. Three days later after the 2nd installment he tells me that I ruined the engine when I test drove it for 5 mins (with a witness present) and that he is keeping $300 - $400 of the $600 outstanding. I have seen no money since. He still owes me $600 and I have a third party involved however he is still refusing to pay. I feel it must be settled in the small claims court. Can you offer me any advice?? Im a student on an international work placement and leave the country in December.
I am residing in South Carolina.
Thank you

 

[I AM ALWAYS LIABLE]

I purchased a used car for an agreed fee of $1400 with $500 down and the rest to be paid when he repaired and replaced various parts (only agreed verbally - but I have an eye witness). I paid him the rest and realised he hadnt made the repairs he agreed to do to the car. I returned the car the next morning and he agreed to do the repairs/replacements he said he would - 2 weeks later he still hadnt. However, he eventually, with an eye witness present agreed to pay me my money back within 10 days in 2 x $700 installments. He then paid me 2 x $400 installments after 2 weeks. Three days later after the 2nd installment he tells me that I ruined the engine when I test drove it for 5 mins (with a witness present) and that he is keeping $300 - $400 of the $600 outstanding. I have seen no money since. He still owes me $600 and I have a third party involved however he is still refusing to pay. I feel it must be settled in the small claims court. Can you offer me any advice?? Im a student on an international work placement and leave the country in December.
I am residing in South Carolina.
Thank you

My response:

Simple. You answered your own question.

Take him to Small Claims court, bring your witnesses, and have him explain to a judge how you could have ruined the engine "when [you] test drove it for 5 mins (with a witness present)."

You'll win. Go for it.

IAAL

 

[JETX]

My $0.02 worth.....

I agree completely with IAAL.

However, I would be remiss in not commenting for the benefit of others that might read this thread.... why would you place any faith in the sellers continual VERBAL agreements without getting anything in writing????!!!! Especially since you had already seen that his word was without merit!

ALWAYS, ALWAYS get your agreement in writing!!!