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
To receive follow up on your request, you must provide your address. The Agency will mail you a complaint form, which you must complete and return. If you also provide an email address with your Service Request, you will receive the form by email instead. Be sure to check your spam folder in addition to your inbox.
