Car buyer claims Tampa auto sale is a clunker


COMPLAINT: Dalia Cox, Dunedin, Fla.

I purchased a vehicle from Fitzgerald Countryside Automall. It was not under warranty; however, I was told it underwent a 138-point inspection and that the only thing the vehicle would need was new brake pads and rotors.

"Within a week of purchase, the vehicle overheated. My mechanic checked it out and found it needed a new radiator, oil change, new battery, new wiper blades and rear rotors resurfaced."

"Two weeks later, the vehicle wouldn't start because the alternator went out, and the water pump started to leak.

"If the vehicle went through a 138-point inspection by a qualified mechanic and repairs were made, I wouldn't be encountering these mechanical problems.

"The company misrepresented the overall condition of the vehicle."

DESIRED RESOLUTION: "I want them to reimburse me for all the expenses paid to get the vehicle running."

RESPONSE: Bill Cashman, used car manager, Fitzgerald Countryside Automall

"The vehicle was advertised and sold as a handyman special, "fix it upper."

"The customer was aware at the time of purchase that the vehicle was sold as-is and that any necessary repairs at the present time or in the future were solely their responsibility.

"The customer signed documentation that they were aware of this, and purchased the vehicle with these conditions."

STATUS: Stalemate

Comments

I don't understand why this is labeled as a "Stalemate". It had been inspected, I didn't see anything that stated that the Dealership would fix it prior to the sale, if that were to happen the vehicle would not have been "as-is". Once upon a time I had a used car lot and a body shop. But this is making me re-think joining Angie's List.

Thank you for your comment, Rebecca! A status of "Stalemate" means that both the customer and the service provider commented on the dispute, but an agreement was not reached. For more on the complaint resolution process at Angie's List, please visit http://www.angieslist.com/angieslist/visitor/complaintresolutionfaq.aspx?u=1#resolutionstatus

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