Option to Cancel? Maybe Not…

“Do I have a right to cancel this contract?”  I get this question quite often from potential clients and far too often I have to answer with a resounding “no.”  Recently, however, I was made aware of a local vehicle dealership which apparently is providing a 3-day money back guarantee on certain pre-owned vehicles.  It sounds like a good deal but I would suggest folks still be careful and protect themselves by taking the following three steps:

Get it in writing:  At the time you make your purchase (or preferably, before deciding to purchase) make sure you have this money back guarantee and all terms and conditions in writing.  Review them and ask any questions before making a decision to buy.

Have the vehicle checked by a mechanic:  During this 3-day period in addition to driving the vehicle you should be sure to have it inspected thoroughly by an experienced mechanic.  Have the mechanic provide you with a written report of any issues or potential issues with the vehicle.

Think:  If you have taken the above two steps you should have the information needed to decide if you want to keep the vehicle.  Note that most dealerships do not provide any money back guarantee so this is your opportunity to back out if it makes sense to do so. If you do decide to rescind the deal and seek your money back be sure to provide the notice required in the Flow policy.

For more resources in protecting yourself when purchasing a used vehicle visit the O’Neal Law Office Free Information Center.  Best wishes in finding a vehicle that fits your budget and meets your needs.

—John T. O’Neal is a practicing attorney in Greensboro, NC who focuses his practice in Personal Injury/Wrongful Death, Consumer Law (includes Auto Dealer Fraud/Vehicle Issues, Lemon Law, and Debt Collection Defense), and various types of Civil Litigation. A long-time NCAJ member and a two-time Ebbie Award winner, he is a former Chair of the Consumer Areas of Practice Section and the Hispanic/Latino Issues Division.