Used lemon???

[av8ndi]

Hi all-

I live in MD, and 18 days ago bought a used 2002 Ford Explorer with 40k miles on it. Yesterday it was put in the shop because the driver's side power seat got stuck all the way forward, and the serpentine belt needs to be replaced. We got a 100k mile warranty when we bought the vehicle, but our deductible on the seat is $200, and it won't even cover the belt. So...I buy another Ford, drive it for less than 3 weeks, and am out close to $500.

I know in MD the lemon law doesn't apply to used vehicles, but are there any legal rights I have?

Thanks, and have a great day.

Scott

 

[djohnson]

If it's covered under warranty, take it back and let them fix what they can under warranty. You are out the deductible.

 

[racer72]

Ford recommends changing the serpentine belt every 30,000 miles. Someone got an extra 10k out of that one. And belts are considered part of the routine maintainance.

 

[You Are Guilty]

The seat should be covered under Ford's 3/36 warranty. The belt is arguably covered as well, but I can't say for certain without checking Ford's recommendations for changing it and the truck's service records (40k is not out of the realm of reason for a belt to go).

However, the belt is something even a novice could change themselves for the cost of the belt ($30?). Heck, some auto parts places will even help you do it in their parking lot (even though they're not supposed to). I don't know who told you it was $300 to change, but I'd find another dealer, it's not that hard.

 

[TCB4U2B2B]

As you correctly noted, the situation is not a lemon law issue. The seat is likely to be covered under the remaining warranty. A deductible fee should not apply. However, if the fee is required by warranty, dealer may repair the seat to satisfy you, the customer, if asked possibly.

$200.00 deductible does seem rather high but it is based upon the contract you accepted and signed at the time of purchase. Warranty purchase price is not an aspect of the vehicle sale to be negotiated. Accept or decline it.

The belt is likely to be covered under any the warranty. Even though considered a normal part of maintaining the vehicle. However, should have been noted upon a visual inspection. Vehicle also should have been pre inspected by your mechanic or a knowledgeable person there on the lot with you, prior to the purchase.

Summations: (IMO)
Used vehicles should always be pre-inspected by trusted mechanic.
Verbal warranties never apply. Must be in writing and signed.
When possible, always purchase used vehicles from new vehicle dealers. More likely to find better quality vehicles and more reputable dealers.
No case or actions against the selling dealer. Buyer needs to beware.

Case Dismissed.
Courts Adjourned.
Regards and Good Luck.
TCB4U2B2B

A Guiding Light Out Of The Darkness....
Providing No Real Legal Advice. Administering "HUGE Doses of Reality" When Needed or as Required...
Personal Quote: "When In Doubt, Consider All Your Options and Allow Common Sense To Prevail."