Does anyone know lemon law in NJ for used car bought 24 hours ago with blown head on 02 nissan altima?

Question

We just purchased it last night. Does anyone know if we can get a full refund??

Answer 1

Unless it was sold as-is (and you would have signed paperwork to that effect), it must pass NJ state inspection. Therefore, your best course it to have it towed back to the dealer and try to resolve the issue.

Choices:

1.) Take it back. Try and get the dealer to "unwind" the deal (start over). Pick out a new vehicle from his lot. A full refund is unlikely however, but not specifically impossible.

2.) Take it to the dealer and have them repair it. Keep the car.

3.) Turn it into a big fight, with lawyers, spending money you don't have, and getting nothing but a busted car in the end.

Which choice sounds better? Which is more likely to happen? That's why I picked that order.

TIPS:

Go back and speak to the General Sales Manager. Tell them that you'd like to work out a friendly resolution. Tell them that choice #1 is your preference. Blow sunshine up his a##. Just don't turn it into a fight. You will lose.

If it turns into a fight, back off and get back up. Try to resolve it with the Owner/GM. Document everything that is said by writing it down in a notebook.

Lemon Law does not apply until repairs are made/failed, and time has passed (28 days I think). Therefore, don't mention lemon law! It's like waving a red flag in front of a bull. If they s***w people everyday at this dealership, they are going to be good at it. If they try to take care of people, give them a chance.

If all that fails, or you think you need to call in the Calvary, email me and I'll see if I can work some magic on your behalf with the dealership. I'm in NNJ.

PS - why do you think/know it is a blown gasket?

Answer 2

A 2002 Altima is 6 years old. It's too old for lemon law protection. You didn't state how many miles are on it. Why did you buy a car with a blown head? It was your responsibility to determine the condition of the car before you bought it. A 6 year old car has no warranty, but you might contact the dealer you bought it from and see if they are willing to help you. But don't be surprised if they don't. They don't have to.

Answer 3

New Jersey has a lemon law 56:12-29

I'm looking in Lemon Law The Standard Reference Guide and see that it doesn't seem to matter if the vehicle is used or not. It appears you have to give the manufacturer 3 attempts to repair though Oh and you do have to have a factory warranty. The defect has to substantially impair the use, value or safety of the vehicle. Sounds like you may have rights in Jersey. Check it out.