Can I Sue the Car Dealership for Fraud or Misrepresentation?
Sue a Car Dealer for Fraud and Misrepresentation
When the Car of Your Dreams Turns into a Legal Nightmare
It started with a handshake and a smile.
Susan had finally found the SUV she wanted—low mileage, clean interior, one previous owner. The dealer said it had never been in an accident. The price seemed fair. So she signed the paperwork, handed over the cash, and drove off the lot feeling good.
But a week later, a mechanic found frame damage. The car had been in a serious wreck. And that “one owner” claim? False. It had changed hands four times.
That’s when Susan began asking the question many frustrated buyers ask:
Can I sue the car dealer for fraud?
The answer: Yes, you may be able to file a car dealer misrepresentation lawsuit if the dealership lied or concealed key facts during the sale. And we can help you hold them accountable.
What Counts as Auto Dealer Fraud?
Auto dealer fraud isn’t just shady behavior—it’s illegal.
It happens when a dealer intentionally lies or hides information to get you to buy a car. This includes:
- Saying the vehicle was never in an accident when it was
- Rolling back the odometer
- Falsely claiming the car is “certified” or “one-owner”
- Hiding serious mechanical problems
- Failing to disclose salvage or flood damage
- Using high-pressure tactics and then changing the terms
In short, if a dealer lied or withheld information and you relied on that lie to buy the car, you may have a legal case to sue the car dealer for fraud.
What’s the Difference Between a Bad Deal and a Lawsuit?
Not every disappointment leads to a lawsuit.
If you simply don’t like the car or paid more than it’s worth, that’s not necessarily fraud.
But if the dealer:
- Made false claims,
- Omitted key facts, or
- Used deceptive practices to complete the sale…
Then you’re likely dealing with a car dealer misrepresentation lawsuit—and we want to hear about it.
How Do You Prove Dealer Misrepresentation?
Courts look for certain elements in fraud cases:
- The dealer made a false statement or hid important information
- They knew it was false
- You relied on it when buying the car
- That reliance caused you financial harm
Let’s go back to Susan. She has proof the dealer said the car had no accident history. She also pulled a Carfax later showing major collision damage. That’s evidence of fraud.
The more documentation you have—texts, emails, sales ads, mechanic reports—the stronger your case will be.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Car Dealer Misrepresentation Lawsuit?
If successful, you could recover:
- The money you paid for the car
- Repair costs
- Attorney’s fees
- Sometimes even punitive damages if the fraud was especially bad
In many cases, we can help you return the car and get your money back. Every situation is different, and that’s why a free consultation matters.
📍 California Car Dealer Fraud Laws: Know Your Rights
In California, you’re protected under some of the strongest consumer laws in the nation, including:
- California Civil Code §1770 (Consumer Legal Remedies Act – CLRA): Makes it illegal for car dealers to lie about a vehicle’s condition, title status, accident history, or odometer reading.
- California Business & Professions Code §17200 (Unfair Competition Law): Lets consumers sue for deceptive practices like hiding prior accidents, switching financing terms, or tacking on hidden fees.
- California Vehicle Code §11713.18: Specifically prohibits car dealers from advertising or selling certified pre-owned vehicles with known frame damage, previous salvaged titles, or “as is” disclaimers that hide prior defects.
Even if you bought the car “as is,” the dealer can’t lie about material facts or hide known problems.
If they did—you may have a valid claim under California law, and we’re here to help you file it fast.
You Don’t Have to Fight This Alone
Car dealerships often count on customers not knowing their rights.
They hope the paperwork and legal language will scare you off. But that’s where we come in.
Our law firm has helped hundreds of clients just like you:
✅ People who were lied to.
✅ People who were ignored after the sale.
✅ People who were sold unsafe, damaged, or misrepresented vehicles.
We know the system. We know how to prove fraud. And we’re not afraid to take on big dealerships.
Real Client Win: The Case of the “Certified” Lemon
A client came to us after buying a “certified pre-owned” sedan from a major dealership chain.
The dealer claimed it passed all inspections. But within a month, the engine failed.
Turns out it had multiple unresolved recalls and hadn’t been through any real inspection at all.
We took on the case, filed a car dealer misrepresentation lawsuit, and secured a full refund—plus additional compensation.
When Should You Call a Lawyer?
The sooner, the better.
Dealerships move fast—and so should you. There may be time limits to file your case, and waiting could weaken your claim.
Here’s when to contact us immediately:
- You discovered hidden damage after the sale
- You have proof the dealer lied or withheld info
- The car broke down shortly after purchase
- The dealer refuses to answer your calls
Even if you’re unsure, we’ll review your case at no cost.
Don’t Wait—Take the First Step Today
You didn’t ask to be scammed.
But you can do something about it.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and help you decide your next move.
Let’s find out if you can sue the car dealer for fraud—and get the justice you deserve.
Why Clients Choose Us
- Proven Track Record – We’ve recovered millions in car fraud cases
- No Upfront Fees – We don’t get paid unless you do
- Aggressive Representation – We go toe-to-toe with major dealerships
- Clear Communication – No legal jargon, just honest answers
Your case matters. Your money matters. And your trust matters.
Get Help Now Before It’s Too Late
Car dealerships have lawyers. You should too.
Let us help you stand up against auto fraud and hold deceptive dealers accountable.
📞 Call now or 📩 Schedule your free consultation online.
We’re here. We’re ready. Let’s make it right.