florida attorney general consumer protections for elderly when purchasing cars

by Kelton Fahey 9 min read

What is the Consumer Protection Division of the Florida Attorney General?

Consumer Protection. en Español. How to Protect Yourself: Buying a Used Car Source: The Florida Attorney General's Office. A majority of Floridians seeking to acquire a vehicle will purchase a used car as opposed to a new one. However, the desire to save substantial cash and drive away in a dream car can quickly become a nightmare of ...

Is there a lemon law for used cars in Florida?

Consumer Protection. How to Protect Yourself: Buying a Car Source: The Florida Attorney General's Office. Other than a home, a car purchase is generally the largest financial transaction many consumers will make. However, shopping for the best deal at an automobile dealership has historically been a difficult experience for many consumers.

Who enforces the Florida deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act?

The Florida Attorney General's Office. Next to a home, a new car purchase is the largest financial transaction for most consumers. However, shopping for the best deal at an automobile dealership has historically been a difficult and often a regrettably expensive experience for many consumers. Research the price First, decide what car model and ...

Is buying a car as is legal in Florida?

Consumer Protection Division. The Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the Attorney General is the civil enforcement authority for violations of the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. The Division protects consumers by pursuing individuals and entities that engage in unfair methods of competition or unconscionable ...

Does Florida lemon law apply to cars?

Florida's Lemon Law applies only to new or demonstrator motor vehicles or recreational vehicles sold or long-term leased in the state. There is no Lemon Law for used cars in Florida. ... To obtain a guide, or to speak with someone about the Lemon Law, consumers in Florida may call the Lemon Law Hotline at (800) 321-5366.

Can you return a used car after purchase in Florida?

In Florida, there is no statutory right to a Cooling-Off period when purchasing a used vehicle. There is no automatic right afforded to a buyer to return a vehicle within three days. ... Once you sign on the dotted line that vehicle is yours and a dealer has no obligation to take it back.Jul 8, 2014

What are my rights after buying a new car?

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 gives you the right to ask for a full refund in the first 30 days after buying any product that proves to be faulty, including a new or used car. The law also provides protection for servicing and repair work that renders your car faulty.Apr 22, 2021

Does lemon law apply to cars?

It is without surprise that, the public welcomes lemon law. ... Lemon law for consumers then, provides an opportunity to purchase a used car with ease of mind. Even if the used car becomes from a dream ride to a 'lemon', you know there are ways to get your money's worth. Do note wear and tear is not covered under the law.Nov 8, 2012

Does Florida have a buyers remorse law?

Unfortunately, the answer is usually no. At least not without significant difficulty and expense. Florida has no “cooling off” period or other specified time within which a buyer may voluntarily and unilaterally return the vehicle free of penalty and cancel the sales agreement in typical transactions.Jun 13, 2018

How long do you have to register a car after purchase?

These 21 days is the leeway allowed by the law, and during that time, you'll have to arrange a roadworthiness test and get the vehicle's title transferred to your name. Once the 21 days have passed, your vehicle will technically be unregistered, so it's best to take care of this matter as quickly as possible.Nov 30, 2017

Are cars covered under the Consumer Rights Act?

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 The Consumer Rights Act came into force on 1 October 2015 and covers the purchase of goods, digital content and services including new and used cars from official dealers (it doesn't apply to private sales) as well as servicing, repairs and maintenance work.

Which two answers below can consumers reasonably expect under the Consumer Rights Act when they purchase a vehicle?

It is therefore important that dealerships meet what consumers can reasonably expect, namely that: The vehicle is of satisfactory quality. The vehicle is fit for purpose. The vehicle is as described.

Does Consumer Rights Act 2015 apply to cars?

Introduction. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 (CRA) now governs the sale of goods (including cars) to consumers. As a second-hand car dealer you need to know how the law affects you and your customers.

What types of problems are covered by the lemon law?

The lemon law covers defects big or small, but does not include wear and tear items. For example, you cannot make a claim for worn out tyres. It also depends if you bought your car from a direct owner or dealer. Consumer-to-consumer transactions do not benefit from the lemon law.Jun 26, 2020

What does mass lemon law cover?

When purchasing a USED car, the law covers used cars, vans, trucks, and demonstration vehicles not covered by the New Car Lemon Law, and which: Are sold by a Massachusetts dealer or private party. Cost at least $700 (dealer sales only) Have fewer than 125,000 miles on the odometer when sold (dealer sales only)

Does lemon law apply to second hand goods?

Although the lemon law applies to second hand goods, second hand goods are subjected to different standards, since it is only reasonable to expect new goods to be of better condition than second hand goods....Coverage of the Lemon Law.IncludesExcludesConsumer goodsProperties3 more rows•Mar 16, 2016

What is APR in finance?

When financing, find the best interest rate. The federal Truth-in-Lending Law requires lenders to disclose the annual percentage rate (APR), which is the cost of your credit expressed as a yearly rate. These rates may vary significantly. By comparing the APRs offered by various lenders, you can begin to compare deals.

How to compare APRs?

By comparing the APRs offered by various lenders, you can begin to compare deals. Check with local banks and credit unions and compare those rates to the APR offered by the dealer . Be aware that car sales agents may earn additional commissions if they can convince you to finance your car through their dealership.

Is buying a car a financial transaction?

Other than a home, a car purchase is generally the largest financial transaction many consumers will make. However, shopping for the best deal at an automobile dealership has historically been a difficult experience for many consumers. When purchasing a car from a dealership, consider the following:

What is sticker price?

Negotiate. The sticker price is the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). The “S” in MSRP stands for suggested, and most dealers are willing to bargain on their profit margin. Negotiate the total purchase price rather than the monthly payment.

How long do you have to repay a car loan?

You may be required to repay the loan in a shorter period of time, such as 24 months; You may be required to purchase additional options or you may be asked to sign over a manufacturer’s rebate to the dealer; or.

Should I have my car inspected before buying it?

If you are considering buying a specific car, insist upon having the vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic before you buy it. Refusal to allow an independent inspection should be a clear warning, and you should consider taking your business elsewhere. Ask if the vehicle has ever been in an accident.

How to save money when buying a used car?

You may save money by buying a used car from a private individual, such as through the Classified section of your local newspaper or online. However, you should be aware that private sellers do not have to provide you with the Buyer's Guide required by the Federal Trade Commission’s Used Vehicle Rule, and do not provide implied warranties under state law. Therefore, it may be even more important to obtain warranty promises in writing and to have the car inspected by an independent mechanic prior to purchase.

How to lease a car?

You should be wary of: 1 Leasing a car on the first visit; 2 Relying on verbal promises made by agents or lease managers; 3 Giving the agent a deposit before you thoroughly read, understand and are satisfied with any completed lease agreement; and 4 Paying a lot of extra money for an extended service contract when your new car warranty will provide coverage for the major portion of the lease term.

What is a lease agreement?

A lease is essential ly a long-term rental agreement. You are paying for the right to drive someone else's vehicle for the term of the lease, but you do not own it. At the end of the lease, the car does not belong to you (but the lease may include an option to purchase the vehicle at the end of the agreement).

How to file a complaint against a car dealership?

You may file a complaint against a car dealership with the Attorney General’s Office online at www.myfloridalegal.com or by phone at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM. Additionally, you may file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission online using their complaint assistant portal at www.ftc.gov/complaint.

Consumer Protection Offices

City, county, regional, and state consumer offices offer a variety of important services. They might mediate complaints, conduct investigations, prosecute offenders of consumer laws, license and regulate professional service providers, provide educational materials and advocate for consumer rights.

Banking Authorities

The officials listed in this section regulate and supervise state-chartered banks. Many of them handle or refer problems and complaints about other types of financial institutions as well. Some also answer general questions about banking and consumer credit. If you are dealing with a federally chartered bank, check Federal Agencies.

Insurance Regulators

Each state has its own laws and regulations for each type of insurance. The officials listed in this section enforce these laws. Many of these offices can also provide you with information to help you make informed insurance buying decisions.

Securities Administrators

Each state has its own laws and regulations for securities brokers and securities - including stocks, mutual funds, commodities, real estate, etc. The officials and agencies listed in this section enforce these laws and regulations. Many of these offices can also provide information to help you make informed investment decisions.

Utility Commissions

State Utility Commissions regulate services and rates for gas, electricity and telephones within your state. In some states, the utility commissions regulate other services such as water, transportation, and the moving of household goods. Many utility commissions handle consumer complaints.