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In Christchurch, New Zealand, auto dealer fraud refers to deceitful and unlawful practices employed by automobile dealers. It encompasses a range of fraudulent activities such as odometer tampering, false advertising, 'bait and switch' sales tactics, non-disclosure of used vehicle's history, and selling vehicles with mechanical issues under the guise of 'as is' without any warranty. Laws covering auto dealer fraud fall under two key legislative acts: Fair Trading Act 1986 and Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
If you believe you have been a victim of auto dealer fraud, obtaining legal advice is particularly beneficial. A lawyer specializing in this area can help you understand the nuances of your case, guide you through the complex legal process, and represent your interests. You may need a lawyer if you were sold a vehicle with hidden defects, if the dealer used unethical practices or violated any consumer rights, or if financing or contract terms were misleading or unclear.
The Fair Trading Act 1986 makes it illegal for businesses to mislead consumers, give them false information, or engage in deceptive commercial practices. The Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 implies certain guarantees relating to the supply of goods and services to consumers. It also ensures remedies are available when goods do not comply with these guarantees. For second-hand vehicles bought from an auto dealer, consumers have the right to clear title, undisturbed possession, and undisclosed damages or defects.
You should first seek expert legal advice to understand your rights and the potential remedies available to you. You may be able to make a complaint to the Commerce Commission, or potentially seek compensation through the Disputes Tribunal or the courts.
This is when a dealer uses an advertisement for a vehicle at a low price to draw in customers, then informs them the advertised car is no longer available and attempts to sell them a more expensive vehicle.
Under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, a dealer is obligated to disclose any major defects at the time of sale. If they fail to do so, you may be entitled to remedies like repair, replacement, or refund.
Unless your contract has a specified cooling-off period allowing cancellation of purchase, you typically cannot return a car just because you changed your mind.
Yes, under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, second-hand vehicles purchased from a dealer come with certain warranty protections against faults or issues not disclosed at the point of sale.
You may visit websites of governmental bodies like the New Zealand Commerce Commission and Consumer Protection for further information on consumer rights and fair trading. These provide detailed guides on New Zealand's auto dealership and consumer protections.
If you need legal assistance with auto dealer fraud, the first step is to consult a lawyer specializing in this field. Gather all documents related to the purchase, including contracts, warranties, and promotional material that influenced your purchase. Be ready to clearly explain your situation and ask what legal options are available to you.
