What is the law in texas if you are knowingly sold an unsafe vehicle by a dealership?

Question

I purchased a '01 Chevy Blazer about a month ago and I have been smelling really strong gas fumes. I took it to a mechanic that told me something was wrong with my exhaust return line...or something like that. I contacted the general manager who dismisses my complaints because I purchased "As Is." I was told that it is illegal to sell a vehicle that will not pass inspection, is this true?

Answer 1

lemon law?

Answer 2

Here is the problem:

The exhaust leak wasn't there when you bought it, or you would've said you smelled it then.

When you drove it off their lot it was safe. And you did know this is a 5 year old car.

You shouldn't have waited a month to find a problem with an as-is car. Their arguement is that it was safe when it left there, and that this is a new problem.

You can try pushing them to do something. Be polite but firm. Maybe if they have good customer service they'll do something, but it'll be more of a favor and not an obligation.

Consider this a lesson learned:
Always have a used car checked out by a mechanic before you buy.
and always report any problems with a car immediately, not a month later

Best of luck!

Answer 3

Yes it is true. Texas has very strict laws on selling unsafe as well as the lemon laws. Consult an attorney, or try contacting the dealership again. I used to work for a used car dealership that focused on the whole "AS IS" thing, but if you complain quite frenquently enough, they will eventually fix your problem. Ask to talk to the service manager and if you don't get anywhere with them, try the general manager again, and if that doesn't work, ask to speak with the owner. Keep bugging them, I would call every single blasted day, twice or three times a day, go by there after work, most dealerships open late and talk to them and complain face to face. They will fix it just to get you to leave them alone. I'm not sure what department to contact regarding this though if they absolutely don't fix it.

Answer 4

Most states don't allow the "AS IS" defense for a known problem with a vehicle. Granted this vehicle should have been inspected by a qualified mechanic, there is legal recourse for you. Consult your state auto selling laws to determine who you should contact regarding your problem. (Most likely the DMV/BMV handles these types of issues)