Used Car Issues?

Used Car Issues?

Buying a used car has advantages. You won’t lose value immediately after driving it off the lot, like new cars. You’ll probably pay a much lower price tag than a new car. And if you buy within the manufacturer’s warranty, you’ll get the benefit of a warranty without paying new car prices.

However, anyone buying a used car needs to be extra careful they’re getting a good car without prior damage or mechanical issues. Life Pro Tip: Always, and I mean always, get an inspection done on the vehicle by a third-party mechanic you trust.  Check out our resources page.

What if you do buy a car that you find out should have probably been sold for parts? You need to call a lawyer immediately. Even if you bought your vehicle “As-Is,” you might still have some recourse against the dealership or the manufacturer.  We will ask you all the right questions to figure out whether you have a claim.

Book a free consultation directly on our website.  We look forward to speaking with you!

What if I bought the vehicle “As-Is”?

Cars and trucks can have defects that make driving them unsafe; These issues might be as small as power windows that don’t roll back up, or headlights that need a bit of refurbishment. It could also mean oil that hasn’t been changed, tires that are worn, or brakes that lock up. If you purchase a used car and find out after you get home that it has a serious issue, please reach out. Used cars are far more likely to have hidden or undisclosed problems than new cars. Dealerships often tell past customers that they have no legal rights, because the car was purchased “as-is.”

There are conditions outlined by lemon laws in Colorado that must first be met before a state court will take action and a lawsuit can be filed. They include:

  1. Within a 12-month period after the sale of a new vehicle, a defect must occur causing “serious impairment” in the operation of the vehicle. (The law does not apply if 12 months have passed since the purchase)

  2. At least four attempts must be made by the dealer, manufacturer, or certified mechanic to correct the defect before a vehicle can be labeled a “lemon” according to lemon laws in Colorado.

  3. Prior to filing a lawsuit, a written notice of the defect must be sent by Certified Mail to the manufacturer of the vehicle. 

If all three of these stipulations are met (and all three MUST be met), there can be a case for filing a lawsuit against the manufacturer pursuant to lemon laws in Colorado. Typically, however, the manufacturer’s response to the notice of defect will be to resolve the warranty claim to avoid going to court. 

Don't get used.
Hire an Attorney

Manufacturers and new car dealers will do everything in their power to avoid a complete warranty claim, and they have more experience with lemon laws in Colorado than the average consumer. 

If you believe your new vehicle purchase qualifies for protection under lemon laws in Colorado, you need an attorney who knows how to get results. If you need an attorney who understands the Colorado Lemon Law, knows how to defend your rights, and knows how to take action in your case, contact the Bayas Firm today.