Massachusetts Lemon Law Attorney Offers Drivers Advice on Avoiding a Sour Car Buying Experience

NORWELL, Mass., Nov. 9, 2005 -- The winter is an ideal time to purchase a car, according to Lemon Law Attorney Craig Thor Kimmel. With an assortment of 2005 and 2006 models on the dealership lots and competitive pricing initiatives, consumers have plenty of opportunities to get behind the wheel of a shiny new car, truck or SUV that fits their lifestyle.

However, drivers need to take certain precautions to make sure they aren't taken for a ride or stuck with a lemon car. "An automobile purchase is something that should not be rushed," warns Kimmel. The nationally recognized Lemon Lawyer, whose firm has offices in Norwell, MA offers consumers the following tips:

  1)   RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!  Make sure the car you are looking at
       has a strong customer satisfaction rating, provides the features
       that you are looking for, and is priced within your range.  

  2)   ASK YOUR FAMILY, NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS.  These people can provide
       useful information and recommendations.  They may know someone who
       adores their SUV or someone whose sport car is constantly in the
       shop.  User forums on the Internet can also provide some useful
       perspectives and uncover common complaints consumers have with their
       particular vehicles.

  3)   KNOW THE MSRP!  The MSRP stands for the manufacturer's suggested
       retail price. Unless a car is in high demand, most dealers will
       offer their cars at a price that is lower than MSRP. Knowing the
       MSRP can help you when you are discussing costs. Also, don't forget
       to call other authorized dealerships to see if they can get a better
       offer for you. A little legwork can save you thousands and if you
       are not one who likes to haggle, take along someone who does, or
       consider one-price shopping offered by Saturn and other
       manufacturers. Remember, this is your hard-earned money and you want
       to get the best ride for your dollar.

  4)   TRY IT BEFORE YOU BUY IT!  This is a common error in judgment. We
       often order cars in special colors or with additional features and
       when they arrive, we sign on the dotted line and drive off. STOP!
       Before you take possession of the car, you need to check out the
       exact car you are buying, not one just like it. Make sure you try
       every feature (i.e. air conditioner, defroster, trunk latch, cruise
       control, sunroof, etc.)  Also take it for a quick test drive before
       you sign any papers. If something isn't working right, don't sign
       anything. This is the one time you are in control. Demand
       perfection.

  5)   DO NOT PURCHASE A USED CAR WITHOUT A MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY.  Make
       sure that any car you purchase is protected with a warranty from the
       manufacturer. This is the only way a manufacturer will stand behind
       a pre-owned vehicle. And make sure that if you are buying a "pre-
       certified" car, it is certified by the manufacturer, and not the
       dealership. Otherwise, you will not be protected under the State and
       Federal Breach of Warranty Statutes.

  6)   KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!  If you have purchased a new car or a car with an
       existing manufacturer's warranty and you have a reoccurring problem
       that they can't seem to fix, you do have legal rights. If a car is
       in the shop 15 business days in the first year, or has a reoccurring
       problem under the manufacturer's original or extended warranty
       period, you could be entitled to a new car, or a full or partial
       refund.  Best of all, in Massachusetts, there are Federal laws that
       provide 100% cost-free legal help. Don't be afraid to consult an
       attorney if needed. For more information regarding your
       Massachusetts Lemon Law rights, call 1-800-LEMON-LAW or visit
       http://www.lemonlaw.com/.

Based in Norwell, MA, Kimmel & Silverman is the oldest and largest lemon law and consumer advocacy firm in the Northeast. Founded in 1991, the firm has offices throughout Eastern and Western Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware and Massachusetts. The Firm has successfully handled over 35,000 cases and has been honored for their efforts by the American Bar Association.