QUESTION:
A few years ago we bought a used 1992 Buick Skylark. Well, right about the time the warranty was done, the paint just started peeling right off the car!! We called the dealer, they said something to the effect of "Oh, yeah. Well, there was a recall on the paint, the primer they used was defective. Oh, but your warranty is expired, so too bad." We also called a Buick dealer who said the same thing. Then I heard of a class action suit against Buick, but couldn't find any info about it anywhere! Is there anything I can do about this? I won't be buying another Buick, when they admit that they did something wrong, but tell us flat out they don't care.ANSWER: How are you doing? I hope all is well at roo.com. I'm not forwarding this to our legal expert yet. There are some things you need to do before considering legal action. The answer to your question unfortunately is not a good one from the consumer's perspective. Here is an excerpt from my article "Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins: Finding And Fixing Ongoing Problems With Your Car Or Truck" located at http://www.newcarbuyingguide.com/ftrs/sk-tsbs-01.shtml that includes this subject. Cosmetic problems like peeling paint are not a safety issue and thus do not fall under the jurisdiction of NHTSA. Consumers experiencing cosmetic problems should check with the dealer to see if any arrangements have been made for special problems -- again, check with several dealers to compare their stories. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) handles questions about certain consumer problems. Call them and ask about a specific problem. The Center for Auto Safety keeps track of non-safety matters and publishes a newsletter called the "Lemon Times." State and county consumer agencies and state attorneys general also concern themselves with automobile problems, but they are not required to do so unless fraud is involved.
Let us know what happens when you call Buick. I'm curious to see how they treat you.
P.S. Take notes with dates on everything. Also, get the first and last names of everyone you talk to about everything.
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