California Auto Fraud Attorney | Undisclosed Engine Defect Case Win
Consumer Action Law Group recovered $50,000 for client D. Manna after purchasing a Jeep Grand Cherokee that the seller had failed to disclose was improperly lubricated — a defect that caused the engine to fail shortly after the sale.
What happened to Manna?
Our client purchased a used Jeep Grand Cherokee, unaware that the vehicle had a serious undisclosed defect: improper lubrication that rendered the engine mechanically unsound at the time of sale. The dealership made no mention of this condition during the transaction, and nothing in the sales process put our client on notice that the vehicle was not in merchantable condition.
Not long after taking ownership, the engine failed without warning. Our client was left with a vehicle that could not serve its intended purpose — causing both financial harm and significant disruption to their daily life, including loss of transportation for work and personal needs. When our client turned to the seller for assistance, none was provided.
How did Consumer Action Law Group resolve this case?
Our client contacted Consumer Action Law Group after the dealership refused to take responsibility for the engine failure. Our team investigated the circumstances of the sale and determined that the seller’s failure to disclose a known material defect gave rise to claims under California’s auto fraud and consumer protection laws, including the California Consumer Legal Remedies Act and the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act.
Consumer Action Law Group pursued the case aggressively on our client’s behalf. The matter was resolved with a full recovery of $50,000 — compensation for our client’s economic and non-economic losses arising from the defective vehicle purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my rights if a car dealer sells me a vehicle with a hidden defect in California?
Under California law, dealers are required to disclose known material defects before completing a sale. A defect is considered material if it would affect a reasonable buyer’s decision to purchase the vehicle or the price they would be willing to pay. If a dealer conceals or fails to disclose such a defect, the buyer may have claims under California consumer protection statutes, including the right to seek compensation for their financial losses, out-of-pocket costs, and other damages. The specific remedies available depend on the facts of each case.
Can I get my money back if I bought a car with an undisclosed engine defect?
Potentially, yes. When a dealer sells a vehicle without disclosing a known defect that affects the engine or the vehicle’s overall fitness for use, California law may entitle you to recover your losses — including payments made on the vehicle, out-of-pocket repair expenses, and related costs. The outcome depends on whether the defect existed at the time of sale, whether the dealer knew or should have known about it, and whether you have documentation supporting your claim. Speaking with a qualified auto fraud attorney is the best way to understand your options.
What does it mean for a car to be “unmerchantable”?
A vehicle is considered unmerchantable when it fails to meet the basic standard of quality that a buyer would reasonably expect — meaning it cannot be safely or reliably used for ordinary transportation purposes. Under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act and related California law, selling a vehicle that is unmerchantable at the time of sale — particularly without disclosure — can expose the seller to legal liability. An engine that fails due to improper lubrication present before the sale is one example of a condition that may render a vehicle unmerchantable.
What types of auto fraud cases does Consumer Action Law Group handle in California?
Consumer Action Law Group represents California consumers in a wide range of dealer fraud and auto defect cases, including undisclosed mechanical defects, odometer fraud, title washing, yo-yo financing schemes, warranty misrepresentation, and lemon law claims. The firm has been recovering millions of dollars for defrauded car buyers since 2011. If you believe you were misled or defrauded in connection with a vehicle purchase, the team offers free consultations to help you evaluate your options.
My car had an engine problem the dealer didn’t tell me about — does that mean I have a case like this one?
Not necessarily. Every case depends on its own specific facts — the outcome described here reflects the particular circumstances of that client’s situation, and cases that sound similar don’t always lead to the same result. What matters is whether the events happened as you remember them, whether you have documentation to support your claim (such as repair orders, dealer communications, or purchase contracts), and whether the circumstances of your vehicle purchase qualify under the laws Consumer Action Law Group pursues. The only way to know if you have a case is to speak with our team directly — consultations are free.
Did a car dealer defraud you? We can help.
Consumer Action Law Group has been fighting for defrauded California car buyers since 2011, recovering millions of dollars on behalf of clients who were sold defective or misrepresented vehicles. If you purchased a car with a defect the dealer didn’t disclose, you may have legal options — and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let our team review your situation.
