You can file a complaint about businesses in the City that sell used cars, including auto auction businesses and dealers selling salvage vehicles.
Used car dealerships must give customers:
- The opportunity to cancel their sales contract within 2 business days, as set forth on the NYC Used Car Contract Cancellation Option form
- The Used Car Consumer Bill of Rights
- The Financing Disclosure, if the customer finances their purchase of the car
- A copy of all contract documents in the language in which the deal was negotiated
Businesses that sell salvage vehicles or recalled cars, parts, or equipment must give customers:
- A written statement that the car they are purchasing is a salvage vehicle
- A copy of recall information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration before customers sign contracts
Used car dealerships may not:
- Park their cars on public streets and sidewalks.
- Require customers to accept financing through the dealership.
- Require customers to purchase any add-on product as a condition of purchasing a car at a given price.
The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) does not accept complaints about an individual or business operating out of a private residence, including parking cars for sale or repair on residential streets.
What Happens Next
If you provide an email address with your Service Request, you will receive a notification by email. You may also be emailed a complaint form, which you must complete and return. Be sure to check your spam folder in addition to your inbox.
