Car Dealership Fraud Lawyer – Fresno, CA

What Is Car Dealership Fraud?

Car dealership fraud happens when a dealer uses deceptive, dishonest, or illegal practices to sell a vehicle. These actions can leave buyers stuck with unsafe or overvalued cars—and in many cases, legal action is the only way to make it right.

Some common examples of dealership fraud include:

Hiding Prior Damage

Dealers may sell vehicles that were previously involved in accidents, floods, or other major damage—without disclosing this to the buyer. This is a direct violation of consumer protection laws.

Rolling Back Odometers

Altering or tampering with a car’s mileage to make it appear less used than it actually is is a serious form of fraud that can affect resale value, maintenance schedules, and safety.

Making False Promises

Salespeople may make verbal promises about warranties, features, or return policies that aren’t included in the written contract. If it’s not in writing, it may be fraudulent.

Deceptive Financing Practices

Dealers might misrepresent loan terms, interest rates, or monthly payments to trap buyers into unfavorable agreements.

If you suspect you’re a victim, don’t wait—our team can provide legal help for defective cars and connect you with a Lemon Law Lawyer near me to explore all your legal options.

CALL NOW (559) 272-5473

Common Types of Dealership Fraud in Fresno

Car buyers in Fresno are not immune to shady dealership tactics. Unfortunately, dealership fraud is more common than many people realize, and local consumers often face specific schemes that can cost them thousands of dollars or leave them with unsafe vehicles.

Here are some of the most common types of dealership fraud we see in Fresno:

Selling Wrecked or Rebuilt Vehicles as “Like New”

Some dealerships sell vehicles with a history of accidents, flood damage, or frame repairs—without disclosing this to the buyer. These cars may be unsafe and lose value quickly.

Misrepresenting Warranty Coverage

Dealers often mislead customers into thinking a vehicle includes a manufacturer or extended warranty, when in reality it does not. If you’re unsure about your coverage, a vehicle warranty attorney can help verify your rights.

Odometer Rollbacks

Altering the mileage to make a used vehicle appear newer is illegal—but it still happens. Odometer fraud is difficult to detect without expert help.

“Yo-Yo” Financing Scams

This occurs when a dealer finalizes the sale, then later calls the buyer back claiming the financing fell through—forcing them into a worse loan with higher rates.

Bait-and-Switch Tactics

Dealers may advertise one vehicle or price online, then push a completely different deal in person.

If you’ve experienced any of these scams, our Lemon Law legal services can help you take action and seek justice.

Your Rights as a Car Buyer in California

As a car buyer in California, you are protected by some of the strongest consumer protection laws in the country. Whether you’re purchasing a new or used vehicle, dealerships and sellers are legally required to be honest and transparent.

Right to Truthful Advertising

Under California’s False Advertising Law, dealers cannot mislead you about pricing, features, vehicle history, or availability. Any deceptive marketing may be grounds for legal action.

Right to Full Disclosure

Sellers must disclose known defects, accident history, title issues, and any prior damage to the vehicle. Hiding this information is considered fraud.

Right to Cancel in Certain Cases

While California doesn’t have a standard “cooling-off” period, dealers are required to offer a contract cancellation option for used vehicles under a certain price range. Always ask about this before signing.

Protection Under the Unfair Competition Law (UCL)

California’s Unfair Competition Law prohibits any unethical or unlawful business practice, including deceptive financing, false promises, and high-pressure sales tactics.

Additional Protection Through the Lemon Law

If your vehicle turns out to be defective, California’s Lemon Law may entitle you to a refund, replacement, or cash compensation. Learn more about our Lemon Law legal services or speak with a Vehicle warranty attorney today to protect your rights.