I purchased a vehicle with cash from a dealership on May 6th. The vehicle died and I purchased a new battery on May 13th. On May 15th the ve...

Question

I purchased a vehicle with cash from a dealership on May 6th. The vehicle died and I purchased a new battery on May 13th. On May 15th the vehicle was no longer drivable. I had it repaired at a reputable business today. They replaced the alternator and several belts at the cost of $579.22. No where in my paperwork does it state that I purchased the vehicle as is but that is what I was told at the time of purchase. Do I have any options to pursue the dealer in this matter for reimbursement or return of the vehicle?

Answer

The dealer was obligated to file an RD-108, Application for Title within 15 days of the sale. That document, a copy of which you are required to have been provided, will tell the details of the warranty, if any. Also, there should have been a Buyer's Guide, mandated by the Federal Trade Commission on the vehicle where it was advertised. That document is usually taped to a window or attached to the review mirror inside the car and tells the consumer whether a warranty is being offered or not. Most used car dealers do not offer warranties. Some will and some offer service contracts as well which are slightly different but in many ways the same as a warranty. The Application for Title also itemizes the amounts paid for any extra services (such as a warranty or service contract) that is being provided.