Melissa,
Unfortunately this hobby seems to have
its share of dishonest car dealers. As Dick B. pointed out, it is safer to
deal with individuals in the hobby rather than dealerships and specifically
individuals who belong to the IML. It is almost impossible, however to
totally insulate yourself from a con who thinks nothing of lying and
heaping lies upon lies, in order to 'move a vehicle'. This has happened to
me in the past but, thankfully a letter from my attorney got my money back in
full. It is amazing what clout a letter from your attorney carries!
In some, but not all cases, one or two letters from a sharp attorney can move
mountains the buyer could have never moved on his or her own.
I would suggest you getting your
Imperial appraised to establish its current fair market value. Find a
good, reputable appraiser who is certified and will be willing to back up his
appraisal in court if necessary. Once that has been done, you at least
know the difference between what you paid the dealer and what the car actually
is worth. Explain the situation to your attorney and see if a letter from
him to the dealer doesn't get at least some of your money
back.
The dealer would probably not want the
hassle nor the expense of a lawsuit and would rather settle than go to
trial. Don't give up AND don't let the
dishonest seller off the hook. He is counting on you not fighting
back and probably figures you'll just go away and 'chalk it up'.
Don't give him that satisfaction! He needs to be shut down or at the very
least, he needs to have to open his wallet and give back your
money.
Good luck and let
us all know the outcome. We'll be pulling for you
Melissa!
Greg McDonnell
Been there, done that with
dishonest car people. They are pieces of work, that's for sure!
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