Beach Blvd Automotive is a used car dealership in Jacksonville, Florida. In 2011, the Florida Attorney General filed a lawsuit against the dealership, alleging a number of unfair and deceptive business practices.
One of the most serious allegations was that Beach Blvd Automotive installed GPS tracking devices on vehicles without the knowledge or consent of the buyers. The Attorney General also alleged that the dealership used these devices to repossess vehicles, even when the buyers were current on their payments.
Other allegations against Beach Blvd Automotive included:
- Adding credit life, credit disability, and GAP insurance to customers’ monthly payments without proper disclosure
- Placing GPS tracking devices on vehicles without the authorization, approval, or knowledge of their customers
- Threatening to repossess vehicles for minor infractions
- Refusing to provide documentation to customers
- Engaging in false advertising
Beach Blvd Automotive denied all of the allegations. However, in 2017, the dealership reached a settlement with the Attorney General’s office. Under the terms of the settlement, Beach Blvd Automotive agreed to pay $5 million to the state of Florida and to change its business practices.
The Beach Blvd Automotive lawsuit is a reminder that car buyers need to be careful when purchasing a used vehicle. It is important to do your research on the dealership and to read the sales contract carefully before signing anything.
Conclusion
The Beach Blvd Automotive lawsuit is a cautionary tale for car buyers. It is important to do your research on the dealership and to read the sales contract carefully before signing anything. If you have any concerns about a used car dealership, you should contact your state’s consumer protection agency.
FAQs
What happened to Beach Blvd Automotive after the lawsuit?
Beach Blvd Automotive is still in business. However, the dealership agreed to change its business practices as part of the settlement with the Attorney General’s office.
What should I do if I think I have been a victim of unfair or deceptive business practices by a used car dealership?
You should contact your state’s consumer protection agency. They can investigate your complaint and take action against the dealership if necessary.
What are some tips for buying a used car?
Here are some tips for buying a used car:
Do your research on the dealership. Read online reviews and check with the Better Business Bureau.
Get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic.
Read the sales contract carefully before signing anything.
Be wary of any high-pressure sales tactics.
Don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal if you’re not comfortable with it.
What are some red flags to look out for when buying a used car?
Here are some red flags to look out for when buying a used car:
A dealership that is unwilling to let you take a car for a test drive
A dealership that pressure you to sign a sales contract without giving you time to read it
A dealership that offers you a deal that seems too good to be true
A dealership that has a lot of negative online reviews
A dealership that is not willing to provide you with a pre-purchase inspection report
What should I do if I have already bought a used car and I think I may have been a victim of fraud?
You should contact your state’s consumer protection agency and file a complaint. You may also want to consult with an attorney to discuss your legal options.
What are some common car scams?
Some common car scams include:
Odometer rollback
Selling a car with a salvage title
Selling a car with undisclosed damage
Selling a car with fake paperwork
Bait-and-switch scams
Financing scams
By being aware of these scams and following the tips above, you can protect yourself when buying a used car.