JUNE 23, 2009

Cruise Secretary of State Web site for helpful tips

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today encouraged vehicle buyers and sellers to understand their rights and responsibilities before making a deal, and urged them to visit her agency's Web site for helpful information.

"Knowing what to look for and what state law requires makes a smooth ride for both buyer and seller," Land said. "Buyers should remember some key tips when making such a large financial decision. Having good information is the key to buying a great new car."

The Secretary of State's Office licenses and regulates auto dealers and repair shops. It also informs consumers of their rights and investigates related complaints. Its Web site at www.Michigan.gov/sos has several brochures that offer tips for buying or leasing vehicles, as well as doing business with an established dealer or a private individual.

Before buying a used vehicle the department recommends:

• Test driving it and having it inspected by a licensed mechanic.
• Making sure that it has a title. A vehicle cannot be registered without one. Don't agree to the sale if the seller cannot produce a title or there are discrepancies. Also be certain that the owner named on the front of the title is the same person signing it as seller. All owners listed on the front of the title must sign off as the sellers to transfer the title.
• Matching the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the title with the number on the dashboard.
• Checking the odometer's mileage accuracy. Under state and federal law, the mileage for most vehicles must be provided with the title assignment when ownership transfers. Vehicles that are 10 or more years old are exempt.

When doing business with an auto dealer, it's wise to ask questions and read all documents before signing. It's also important to note that there is no "cooling off" or "buyer's remorse" period. Some consumers mistakenly believe they can return a vehicle within a certain number of days after a contract is signed and the vehicle has been delivered.

Remember that a vehicle being sold "as is" means just that. In fact, most used vehicles are not under warranty for any period of time. There also is no such thing as a spoken agreement for a warranty. Get any guarantees in writing, including promises of repairs to be made before the vehicle's sale. Keep in mind that Michigan's "Lemon Law" for defective vehicles only pertains to new vehicles. Used vehicles are not covered.

"Most auto dealers pride themselves on professionally serving their customers," Land said. "But consumers should understand the details of the deal, including the warranty and the loan agreement. With the right information, car buying can be a positive experience for all involved."

If consumers do have a complaint, they should first try working it out with the dealership owner or manager. If the problem isn't resolved, contact the Secretary of State's Bureau of Regulatory Services at (1-888) SOS-MICH (767-6424). An automotive complaint form also is available online. The bureau only investigates issues within its authority and does not regulate vehicle sales between individuals.