The "Used Car Buyers' Bill of Rights" is designed to enhance consumer protections for individuals purchasing used motor vehicles in New Jersey. The bill prohibits dealers from selling vehicles under misleading terms, such as "certified," if they are aware of issues like odometer tampering or significant damage that affects safety. It mandates that dealers provide a contract cancellation option, allowing consumers to return the vehicle without cause within a specified timeframe, with exceptions for high-value or salvaged vehicles. The bill also outlines the necessary components of the cancellation agreement, including restocking fees and mileage limits, and emphasizes the importance of transparency in the used car market.
Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to strengthen warranty requirements for used vehicles, ensuring that consumers receive written warranties based on mileage. It clarifies that dealers must provide clear disclosures regarding "as is" sales and establishes penalties for non-compliance. The legislation specifies exemptions for certain used vehicles, such as those sold for less than $3,000 or those over seven model years old, and eliminates the option for dealers to sell vehicles "as is" in exchange for a lower price. Overall, the bill aims to protect consumers from deceptive practices and ensure they have the right to cancel contracts under specific conditions, while also imposing penalties for violations under the consumer fraud act.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 56:8-68, 56:8-69, 56:8-74, 56:8-76, 56:8-73