Detroit Senior’s New Car Nightmare: Seeking a Refund

A 73-year-old Detroit senior, Yvonne Laster, is facing a frustrating dilemma after her brand-new 2023 Chevrolet Traverse, purchased for $44,000, repeatedly broke down within weeks of buying it. Stranded and without a reliable vehicle, she is demanding a refund from the dealership, feeling she’s “paying for something I don’t have.” This story highlights a serious issue for consumers, especially in our local community, about new vehicle reliability and recourse when things go wrong.

A Dream Purchase Turns Into a Recurring Problem

Ms. Laster’s experience began shortly after she drove her new Traverse off the lot. Instead of enjoying the peace of mind that comes with a new car, she found herself repeatedly dealing with mechanical failures. The vehicle reportedly broke down multiple times, often just days after being returned from the service center.

Each breakdown has left Ms. Laster without reliable transportation, a critical need for anyone, but especially for a senior navigating daily life in Detroit. Her new SUV has spent significant time in the repair shop, accumulating repairs rather than miles on the road. The emotional and practical toll of these persistent issues cannot be overstated, transforming what should have been an exciting purchase into a source of constant stress and financial burden.

The Battle for a Refund: Dealership’s Stance

Following the recurring issues, Ms. Laster’s primary goal has been to secure a refund for her unreliable vehicle. However, her attempts to return the car and get her money back have reportedly been met with resistance. The dealership, Champion Chevrolet, seems to be focused on repairs rather than offering a full refund, despite the car’s consistent failures.

This situation leaves Ms. Laster in a precarious position, making payments on a car that she cannot depend on and often doesn’t even have in her possession. For many Detroiters, a new car is a significant investment, often representing years of savings and planning. To have that investment turn into a liability is deeply concerning and raises questions about consumer protections and dealership accountability.

Understanding Michigan’s Lemon Law

Michigan has a “Lemon Law” designed to protect consumers who purchase new vehicles that turn out to be defective. This law generally applies when a new vehicle has a significant defect or condition that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety, and the manufacturer has been unable to repair it after a “reasonable number of attempts” or if the vehicle has been out of service for a cumulative total of 30 or more days for repair of the same defect.

For Ms. Laster’s case, the repeated breakdowns and extended time in the repair shop could potentially qualify her vehicle under these provisions. The law aims to provide consumers with options, including a replacement vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, less a reasonable allowance for use. However, navigating the Lemon Law can be complex, often requiring persistent documentation and, in some cases, legal assistance.

Key Factors for Lemon Law Claims

• Repeated Attempts: Typically, three or four repair attempts for the same issue, or one attempt for a serious safety defect.
• Out-of-Service Time: 30 or more cumulative days in the shop within the first year or 12,000 miles.
• Substantial Impairment: The defect must significantly affect the car’s use, value, or safety.

Implications for Detroit Car Buyers

Ms. Laster’s experience serves as a stark reminder for all new car buyers in Detroit and beyond. While buying a new car comes with the expectation of reliability and manufacturer warranties, unexpected defects can occur. It’s crucial for consumers to be vigilant from the moment they drive off the lot.

This incident underscores the importance of thoroughly understanding warranty terms, documenting all issues and repair attempts, and knowing your rights under state law. When a new car immediately begins to show significant problems, prompt and decisive action is necessary to protect your investment. The challenge of getting a refund, even with clear issues, highlights the power imbalance between individual consumers and large dealerships or manufacturers.

What to Watch Next and How Help Me Hank is Involved

ClickOnDetroit’s “Help Me Hank” consumer advocacy segment has taken on Ms. Laster’s case, stepping in to investigate and advocate on her behalf. This involvement often provides an avenue for consumers who feel their voices aren’t being heard. Help Me Hank’s intervention can sometimes prompt dealerships and manufacturers to revisit cases and offer resolutions they might have previously denied.

The outcome of Ms. Laster’s case could set a precedent or at least provide valuable insights for other Detroit residents facing similar problems. It will be important to see if Champion Chevrolet and General Motors offer a resolution that meets Ms. Laster’s demand for a refund or a suitable replacement, reflecting the spirit of consumer protection laws. This story is a developing situation, and local eyes will be watching closely for updates.

FAQs About New Car Problems & Your Rights

• What should I do if my new car keeps breaking down?
  Immediately document every issue, every repair attempt (dates, descriptions, invoices), and every communication with the dealership and manufacturer. Keep copies of everything.
• Does Michigan’s Lemon Law apply to used cars?
  Generally, Michigan’s Lemon Law only applies to new vehicles. Used cars typically come with “as-is” clauses unless a specific warranty (implied or extended) is provided.
• How many repair attempts are considered “reasonable” under the Lemon Law?
  Typically, 3-4 attempts for the same substantial defect, or one attempt for a serious safety issue, within the first year or 12,000 miles.
• Can I stop making payments if my new car is a lemon?
  No, it’s generally not advisable to stop making payments without legal guidance. Stopping payments could negatively impact your credit and lead to repossession, even if you have a valid Lemon Law claim.
• When should I contact a consumer advocate or lawyer?
  If the dealership or manufacturer is unresponsive, or if your vehicle meets the criteria for a Lemon Law claim, seeking advice from a consumer advocacy group or an attorney specializing in Lemon Law is highly recommended.

For any Detroit local considering a new vehicle purchase, Ms. Laster’s ordeal underscores the critical need for vigilance: meticulously document every issue, understand your warranty, and know your rights before you ever need them.

Senior Demands Refund for Faulty New Car