What are our rights regarding the purchase of a previously damaged vehicle?
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What are our rights regarding the purchase of a previously damaged vehicle?
The contract price is $18,000 and I put down $5,000 on a car. The contract stated that the car will be ready in 4 weeks as it was flood damaged vehicle and was totalled by the insurance company; it was then purchased by this dealer. The dealer marketed the car as a repairable flood damaged vehicle and the contract stated the the vehicle would be fixed and running when we pick it up in 4 weeks. Since we have never driven this vehicle or seen it run, can I have a mechanic look at it before I pay the remaining balance?
Asked on February 24, 2012 under Business Law, Virginia
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
I think it wise that you have your own mechanic carefully inspect and drive the vehicle that you are paying $18,000 for that had previous damage especially since you have not seen ot nor driven it. When the car arrives for your use, it may be in such a condition as to not be worth anywhere close to the $18,000 that you agreed to pay for it.
Assuming your mechanic approves the vehicle's condition, you can then make the balance of the payment.
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