Selling a car after getting repairs

[blackraven]

Hey All,

Got a question for you... My '06 Mustang GT has a passenger side water leak which has caused a strong mold odor (lingers on clothes). I've been in the shop 3 times for repair & a new carpet and the car still leaks, mold still smells. I just sent a letter to Ford giving them one more change to repair under NJ's Lemon Law.

What I want to know is this... If Ford doesn't respond or doesn't fix the car, can I take it in to the previous service center, have them place in another new carpet & try to fix the leak. Right after picking up the car, then take it and use it as a trade-in on a new vehicle. Do I have to disclose the previous leak/mold issue and can I claim that it was fixed since I just came from the service center?

I am hesitant to proceed with the full lemon law process, as it could take a month or two before its all settled, in the mean time, I'm left paying on a car I get sick driving in. I don't want to "pull a fast one" on anyone, but I also don't want to be suck with a car I'm going to have to worry about once it is repaired.

Any advice? -Tom

 

[Jenns01TA]

This is a hard one in that if they ask the question you are obligated to respond under disclosure law. If, however, they do not ask, then you are not obligated to offer the information in advance. It is a fine line. The value of the vehicle from the standpoint of a trade-in should not be decreased by more than a few hundred dollars as the problem has been "fixed".

Edit add: Most state laws differ but voluntary disclosure is usually required only for "Damage". They do not stipulate or define "damage". Most consumer will use the definition of "damage" associated with an accident, flood, fire. In most states, "damage must be disclosed if it exceeds 50% of the fair market value of the motor vehicle before it became damaged. The amount of damage shall be based on estimates of the RETAIL cost of repairing the vehicle, including labor, parts and other materials if the vehicle has not been repaired; or on the ACTUAL RETAIL cost to repair, including labor, parts and other materials if the vehicle has been repaired. All repair charges, including sales tax, must be included."

Just start off by saying you are not happy with the color and interior color you have and are looking for another one. If you act like you buy Stangs like women do sweaters and fluff the sales personnel, they won't even blink an eye. I blew the control arms in my 03 GT and had popped the upper tranny line off at the track. I could only imagine the roast to the tranny. I had the control arms fixed, drove the GT to Car Max and walked away with $19,000 cash. They inspected and never asked, so I never told. Oh and wear men's cologne like an old hooker. hahahahhaha It will kill and remaining smell in the car and they will just think you are a pimp.

 

[stanmckinney]

What kind of trade will your Ford dealer give you to make amends for all of your problems? Will they give you a sweet deal? If so, they know about the situation and I wouldn't feel bad about anything.