“When spending money on such an important and expensive item as a car – whether buying, leasing, or paying for repairs – you should go in armed with clear knowledge about your own rights and about the reputation and track record of the company you’re doing business with,” Division of Consumer Affairs Acting Director Steve C. Lee said.
The Division last year received 1,244 consumer complaints in the “Motor Vehicle” category – the number-two complaint category. Of those complaints, an estimated 49 percent resulted from new and used car sales, 24 percent dealt with auto repair issues, and the rest concerned predatory towing, auto warranties, leases, and other matters.
The Division took significant actions in 2014 and to-date in 2015 against car dealers, repair shops, and towing companies that allegedly violated New Jersey consumer protection laws and/or regulations. These included three Consent Orders with auto dealers and/or dealership groups resulting in $1.9 million in civil penalties and costs. They included settlements with seven towing companies for a total of $83,312 in penalties, settlement payments, costs, and/or consumer restitution; and settlements with two auto repair companies for a total of $22,000 in penalties and/or costs.
In addition, the Division issued notices of violation to six towing companies seeking a total of $249,573 in penalties, restitution, and/or costs; and to nine auto repair shops seeking a total of $20,797 in penalties and costs. The Division’s Lemon Law Unit helped 48 consumers claim $1.14 million in reimbursements, refunds, and/or the value of replacement vehicles.
General Tips on Car Buying, Repair, and Leasing:
New Jersey’s Lemon Laws:
Additional Information on Buying a Used Car:
Additional Information on Leasing a Car:
New Jersey’s Predatory Towing Prevention Act:
Additional Information from the Division of Consumer Affairs:
Consumers can find additional information in the following, free publications on the Division’s website:
Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of marketplace abuse, can file a complaint with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 (toll free within New Jersey) or 973-504-6200.
National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is a coordinated campaign that encourages consumers nationwide to take full advantage of their consumer rights and make better-informed decisions. NCPW 2015 will take place March 1 through March 7 2015. Additional information is available at www.NCPW.gov.
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