 Buying Questions: Can Dealers Sell Vehicles With 30% Life On The Brakes?
Posted by carsandtrucks on Tuesday, July 15 @ 08:24:09 PDT
Question: We just bought a used Chevy Avalanche from a dealer. We noticed
there was something wrong with the brakes (they squeeked and went to the
floor in order to stop). We were told that since it's a safty hazard, they
would need to fix the brakes. Not sure if we should still purchase the truck
because of the brakes, we were assured we could make an appointment to have
them fixed at the dealership and they would take care of everything. Well we
took the truck back and the service person told us the truck had been
inspected before it was put up for sale and the brakes have 30% life left so
they don't have to fix them. All this even after telling them all the
problems with the brakes. Now a month later our brakes are
gone and no
response from the dealership. We have no warranty because of the milage and
are very unhappy since we were promised the brakes would be taken care of.
Is it ok for a dealership to sell a vehicle with only 30% life left on the
brakes and not being able to stop even in stop and go traffic? Can anyone
help us with our situation?
Answer: Unfortunately there is no easy answer to your inquiry. Every dealership and every state has different requirements. If your state
requires a safety inspection, then you will have more recourse with the
dealership than if you live in a state without mandated state
inspections. The fact that you reported a brake concern when you first
purchased the vehicle also should play in your favor.
My advise to you is to contact the General Manager of the dealership.
Explain to him that you accepted the dealerships assurance that the
brakes did not need to be replaced when you first bought it and are
surprised to find you need the brakes replaced so soon after purchase.
I would think that in the interest of customer satisfaction the
dealership would offer some assistance towards the cost of the repair.
This is more likely to happen if the work is performed at the
dealership. So, if you have not had the brakes replaced yet, don't
until you give the dealership the chance to address your concern. If
you do not receive satisfaction from the dealership and your state has
mandatory vehicle saftey inspections, find out which agency polices
the inspections. Contact them and inquire what requirements they place
on the inspection facilities.
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