Question: We just found out after running a CARFAX Report that a used minivan we just bought was involved in a wreck. Is it too late to take it back?
January 29, 2006
Hello Tony
This is a great site . . . lots of valuable info . . . I only wish I had found it 5 days ago.
With two kids and one on the way we went searching for a minivan. After finding a talked about and trusted used car dealership, we found a Mercury minivan we liked. We worked a deal that we were happy with and of course already have signed papers . . . yesterday.
Just today, I ordered a CARFAX History Report, and to my surprise the report shows an accident. The date of the accident was 10/30/05, then the van sold at auction on 1/18/06, then it was purchased by us 1/27/06.
The detailed info shows the police reported "minor damage" involving left front impact. No airbag deployment has been reported. The vehicle has only one reported owner on 12/17/2003 and was registered then as a fleet vehicle. Doesn't sound too bad, and I know I need to have a mechanic look at it to alert me of any potential problems I may now face.
However, it seems like I have read about similar situations and was wondering if you can give me any advice on what to do now. Should I talk to the dealer about what I found? Are "minor" accidents like the one reported a huge red flag for the safety of my family? I know I am probably stuck and that it was stupid to not get the CARFAX report earlier . . . I am learning. Thanks in advance for any helpful advice.
Andy & Amanda
PS ~ There was no other negative info then the previously stated.
Answer:
Hi Andy & Amanda,
Now that you've signed the papers you're pretty much locked in - unless the loan doesn't go through as written. In that case the dealer will have to get you to sign new papers. If it comes to that you can refuse to resign.
If the vehicle was repaired properly you shouldn't have to worry, but you should still have an independent body shop look the vehicle over and inspect it for hidden damage and to determine if the repairs were performed properly.
You should absolutely mention it to the dealer - not the salesman but the General Manager or the owner. Tell them they sold you a wrecked vehicle, and that you are concerned about the safety of the vehicle.
Tell them you want some kind of break on the deal. By law, if they knew about the damage they were legally obligated to inform you before the sale. Of course, maybe they didn't know, but a professional Used Car Manager wouldn't let a body repair slip buy unnoticed.
All my very best...
Tony Iorio
For 
