The Used Car Buyers Bill of Rights is designed to enhance consumer protections for individuals purchasing used motor vehicles in New Jersey. It prohibits dealers from selling vehicles under misleading terms, such as "certified," if they are aware of issues like odometer tampering or significant damage. The bill mandates that dealers provide a contract cancellation option agreement, allowing consumers to return the vehicle without cause within a specified timeframe, with exceptions for high-value or salvaged vehicles. It also requires clear disclosures regarding warranties and the condition of the vehicles, as well as the necessary components of the cancellation agreement, including restocking fees and mileage limits.
Key amendments to existing law include the exclusion of certain used vehicles from the bill's provisions, such as those sold for less than $3,000, those over seven model years old, and vehicles declared a total loss or issued a salvage certificate. The bill revises the mileage threshold for warranty requirements, increasing it from 100,000 to 125,000 miles, and introduces penalties for unlawful practices under the consumer fraud act, which may include monetary fines and cease and desist orders. The legislation aims to create a more transparent marketplace for used car buyers, ensuring they are protected from deceptive practices and have recourse if dissatisfied with their purchase.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 56:8-68, 56:8-69, 56:8-74, 56:8-76, 56:8-73