If you’ve been misled by a salesperson or a finance manager, you aren’t powerless. Hiring a car dealership fraud attorney is the first step in holding dishonest dealers accountable and reclaiming your hard-earned money.
When you walk onto a car lot, you’re looking for a reliable vehicle and a fair deal. Unfortunately, for many Utahns, that excitement quickly turns into a nightmare when they realize they’ve been targeted by deceptive sales tactics. Whether it’s hidden fees, rolled-back odometers, or misrepresented vehicle histories, dealership fraud is a serious issue that leaves consumers financially devastated.
What is Car Dealership Fraud?
Car dealership fraud occurs when a dealer uses deliberate deception, misrepresentation, or the omission of material facts to trick a consumer into a lopsided contract. In Utah, consumers are protected by the Utah Consumer Sales Practices Act (UCSPA), which prohibits unconscionable acts and deceptive practices in connection with a consumer transaction.
Fraud isn’t just a bad deal—it is an illegal practice. If a dealer lied to you about the condition of a car or changed the terms of your contract without your knowledge, they have broken the law.
Common Tactics Used by Dishonest Dealers
Fraud can take many forms, some of which are subtle and hard to spot until long after the papers are signed. Here are the most common tactics a car dealership fraud attorney sees:
- Odometer Fraud: Illegally altering a vehicle’s odometer to show lower mileage, artificially inflating the car’s value.
- Non-Disclosure of Salvage Titles: Selling a vehicle that was previously declared a total loss (due to an accident or flood) without informing the buyer.
- Bait and Switch: Advertising a vehicle at a specific low price to get you in the door, only to claim it’s sold and pressure you into a more expensive model.
- Yo-Yo Financing: Telling a buyer their financing is approved, letting them drive the car home, and then calling them back days later to say the loan fell through—forcing them to sign a new contract with a much higher interest rate.
- Packing the Contract: Adding optional products like VIN etching, gap insurance, or extended warranties into the final contract without the buyer’s consent or knowledge.
Why You Need a Car Dealership Fraud Attorney
Many consumers feel intimidated by dealerships. These businesses often have deep pockets and legal teams on standby. Attempting to fight them on your own can feel like an uphill battle. This is where an experienced car dealership fraud attorney becomes your greatest asset.
1. Expert Knowledge of Utah Consumer Law
An attorney understands the nuances of the UCSPA and federal laws like the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. We know exactly which regulations the dealer violated and how to build a case that stands up in court.
2. Leveling the Playing Field
When a law firm gets involved, the dealership’s attitude often changes. They realize you are serious and that they can no longer bully you. An attorney can handle all communications, protecting you from further manipulation.
3. Recovering Your Losses with a Car Dealership Fraud Attorney
The goal of a fraud lawsuit isn’t just to win—it’s to make you whole. Depending on your case, you may be entitled to:
- A full refund of the purchase price (Rescission of the contract).
- Damages for the difference in the vehicle’s actual value vs. what you paid.
- Compensation for repairs and out-of-pocket expenses.
- In some cases, punitive damages are awarded to punish the dealer for their behavior.
How a Car Dealership Fraud Attorney Fights Back: Steps to Take Today
If you suspect you are a victim of fraud, your actions in the days following the discovery are crucial. To help your car dealership fraud attorney build a strong case, follow these steps:
- Gather All Paperwork: Keep every document you signed, including the buyer’s order, financing agreement, and any brochures or advertisements you saw.
- Document Communications: Write down the names of the people you spoke with and summarize the conversations. If you have emails or text messages from the salesperson, save them immediately.
- Get an Independent Inspection: If the fraud involves the mechanical condition of the car, take it to a trusted, third-party mechanic for a full diagnostic report.
- Avoid Further Contact with the Dealer: Once you suspect fraud, stop negotiating with the dealer yourself. Anything you say could be used against you later.
Don’t Let Dishonest Dealers Win
At Greg Smith & Associates, we believe that every consumer deserves honesty and transparency. Buying a car is one of the most significant investments you will make; you shouldn’t have to worry about being cheated by the person across the desk.
If you feel like you’ve been a victim of spot delivery scams, hidden damage, or financing fraud, our team is ready to stand in your corner. We have the experience necessary to navigate the complexities of Utah’s consumer protection laws and the determination to fight for the justice you deserve.
Contact Greg Smith & Associates today. Let us review your contract, examine the evidence, and help you get back on the road with peace of mind. Your consultation is the first step toward holding dishonest dealers accountable.