Steve Moskos' Blog

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 SUV and SC Lemon Law

10/5/2024

Investing in a new vehicle like the 2024 Mazda CX-90 SUV should be the start of a fun and safe driving experience. However, you may be facing a rough road filled with mechanical and technical issues, turning your excitement into concern. If you’re noticing persistent problems with your CX-90 in South Carolina, you need to know your rights under the SC Lemon Law to navigate these challenges effectively.

Car Complaints Plaguing the CX-90

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 has already been the subject of 108 consumer complaints, according to NHTSA, making it one of the worst cars to buy in 2024. There are various defects that could compromise safety and performance.

Steering and Brake Failures

One of the most severe malfunctions you may see revolves around the steering and braking systems. One alarming incident involved a complete brake failure at moderate speeds, leading to a collision. These failures risk your safety and pose a serious hazard to other cars on the road.

Engine and Electrical System Issues

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 has also had 22 engine complaints and 18 electrical system issues. These range from sudden loss of power while driving to critical warning alerts about system redundancies, leading to dangerous situations on busy roads.

Forward Collision and Lane Departure Malfunctions

With 38 complaints about faulty forward collision avoidance and eight on lane departure systems, it’s clear that the CX-90’s safety features don’t reliably protect you in the way they are intended. These technologies should prevent accidents, but instead, they contributed to unsafe driving conditions.

Recall Details Impacting Safety

On top of the extremely high number of customer complaints, Mazda has issued six recalls affecting various components of the CX-90. The recalls address unexpected braking, loss of power steering assist, and faulty camera displays. Each of these issues increases your risk of crashes due to systemic safety issues that could have extreme consequences if they aren’t fixed effectively.

Your Rights Under the Lemon Law

South Carolina’s Lemon Law is designed to protect you when your new vehicle doesn’t meet standard performance and safety specifications. If you purchased your new 2024 Mazda CX-90 SUV recently (in the last three years, as required by the Lemon Law) and it is repeatedly failing to perform safely despite reasonable repair attempts, you might qualify for a replacement or refund through the Lemon Law. If you find yourself constantly addressing the same issues with your CX-90, or if Mazda has not provided a permanent fix, it’s time to act.

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9/14/2024

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Navigating the Uncharted Road: Lemon Law Help for the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck

7/13/2024

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When innovation meets the road, it is a very exciting idea that you want to join in on. The 2024 Tesla Cybertruck, with its futuristic design and promises of cutting-edge technology, was supposed to revolutionize the pickup truck market through the Tesla brand. However, in the short time since its release, there have been a series of consumer complaints and recalls that show that it might not be as amazing as you expected. Luckily, the South Carolina Lemon Laws are in place to protect consumers like you.

Consumer Complaints and Recalls

Even with its robust appearance and advanced features, the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck has 7 official complaints filed with the NHTSA in the short time it has been on the market, making it one of the worst cars of 2024. This shows the potential reliability and safety concerns associated with this vehicle for consumers like you. The issues include electrical system failures and steering problems, which could leave you without control of your vehicle when you need it most. There are also concerns about visibility due to wiper malfunctions. One alarming report involved a steering alert that prevented the vehicle from being driven just after delivery, illustrating immediate and significant risks to driver safety.

Recall Details Impacting Safety

On top of the car complaints, Tesla has initiated two recalls affecting the Cybertruck that address critical safety issues that could impact drivers unexpectedly. This is more than many vehicles have in their entire life cycle. The first recall involves a trapped accelerator pedal, which could lead to unintended acceleration—a dangerous scenario on any road. The second, a systemic issue with incorrect font sizes on warning lights, might seem minor but can severely affect a driver’s ability to respond to critical alerts. Ultimately, this increases the risk of accidents.

Understanding Your Rights Under the SC Lemon Law

South Carolina’s Lemon Law provides you with the protection you need as a vehicle owner when you find yourself facing repeated and unresolved issues from a new vehicle that you purchased in the last three years. If your Cybertruck has persistent problems that Tesla cannot fix, you might be eligible for relief under the Lemon Law. You may be able to get a replacement vehicle or even a refund. That means you won’t find yourself left to shoulder the burden of a defective vehicle on your own.

Assert Your Rights Under the SC Lemon Law Today

You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Steven Moskos is ready to help. If your experience with a 2024 Tesla Cybertruck is turning your dream into a distressing liability, it might be time to assert your rights. Contact us today to explore your options under the SC Lemon Law.

Uncovering the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica: Navigating Lemon Law Risks in South Carolina

6/6/2024

When you purchase a new car, you anticipate reliability, safety, and smooth driving. However, if you own a 2022 Chrysler Pacifica, you may have found that this celebration of a new car has turned into a series of unexpected and dangerous issues. This vehicle was once celebrated for its family-friendly features but is now one of the worst cars on the road because of consumer complaints and significant safety recalls.

A Closer Look at the Car Complaints

According to the NHTSA, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica owners filed 143 complaints based on their experiences with this vehicle. They experienced issues ranging from complete power loss on highways to unpredictable braking and electrical malfunctions. Here’s what owners are facing:

Electrical System Failures

The electrical system has been notably problematic. Owners reported a total loss of vehicle control and unexpected warning messages that led to the car shutting down even when driving on the highway. This has led to multiple drivers being left in dangerous driving conditions.

Braking and Speed Control

The vehicle’s braking system and vehicle speed control, with 11 complaints, have behaved erratically. Drivers have experienced phantom braking with no obstacles present, leading to near-miss rear-end collisions. This unpredictable behavior raises questions about the reliability of the Pacifica’s safety features.

Recall Details Impacting Safety

On top of all the complaints, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica has been issued three critical recalls affecting many of its fundamental systems. Over 67,000 vehicles were recalled due to an electrical short that could cause unexpected engine shutdowns, increasing the risk of accidents. Another recall involved improperly tightened windshield wiper arms on over 500 vehicles, potentially leading to reduced visibility in bad weather. Additionally, more than 1,000 vehicles were recalled because seats were not properly secured, heightening the risk of injury in a crash.
If you are the owner of a new 2022 Pacifica that you purchased in the last three years, you need to be aware of these critical issues. They directly impact your safety and the reliability of your vehicle.

Your Rights Under the SC Lemon Law

In South Carolina, the Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers from the financial and safety burdens of defective vehicles. If your 2022 Chrysler Pacifica has shown consistent and unrepaired defects, you may be entitled to compensation or a vehicle replacement. It’s important that you document all issues and seek legal advice from a South Carolina Lemon Lawyer, like me, if your vehicle’s performance and safety are compromised.

This lawfirm focuses on Lemon Law and claims associated with auto fraud. So, if you are experiencing problems with your 2022 Chrysler Pacifica, reach out for legal support to navigate the complexities of SC Lemon Law and ensure your rights are protected.

Navigating Your 2023 Chevrolet Bolt Troubles

4/28/2024

Purchasing a new car like the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt should make you excited and hopeful about all the new adventures you will have. However, for many owners, this experience has quickly turned into one associated with frustration and unexpected challenges. The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt, marketed for its innovation and green features, is now notorious for a range of issues that might qualify it for a repurchase under South Carolina's Lemon Law.

A Closer Look at the Car Complaints

The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt safety concerns are highlighted by the 51 consumer complaints that have been filed with the NHTSA, raising a lot of questions about its reliability and safety. Some of the most common issues you might experience include:

Electrical System Failures: There have been 28 car complaints focused on the electrical system. Issues range from sudden loss of power to unexpected vehicle shutdowns, posing serious risks on the road.
Dangerous Deceleration and Powertrain Problems: Owners have reported alarming deceleration incidents, where the vehicle abruptly slows down from highway speeds without the brakes being engaged and other powertrain issues.
Safety System Malfunctions: Reports include the vehicle's advanced safety features, like the Super Cruise hands-free system, acting erratically. One owner even reported that their vehicle started swerving without any warning.

Safety on the Line: Critical Recalls Impacting the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt

A question under the Lemon Law is whether the defect or condition substantially affects the use, value, or safety of the vehicle. The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt has five critical recalls that show some very serious safety challenges for potential owners. One risk highlighted involves a fire hazard following seat belt pretensioner deployment that could ignite interior carpet fibers after a crash. Additionally, there was a recall concerning the potential for passenger airbags to improperly deploy. All of these make it clear that this vehicle, which was supposed to be technologically advanced, has major safety flaws that could put you and your passengers at risk.

Your Rights Under Lemon Law

If you live in South Carolina and bought your new 2023 Chevrolet Bolt in the last three years, you could be protected by the SC Lemon Law from the issues that come with one of the worst cars of 2023. This law is meant to make sure that you don't end up with persistent problems and potential hazards.

Protect Your Rights with South Carolina Lemon Law

Steve Moskos’ practice concentrates on Lemon Law and auto fraud claims. He understands the complexities of Lemon Law claims and is here to help if your Chevrolet Bolt's defects have not been resolved despite reasonable repair attempts. Contact us to discuss your situation and explore your options under the law.

The 2022 Jeep Compass: Steering Through a Storm of Issues

4/2/2024

When you choose a new vehicle, you are expecting to get a reliable partner for all the journeys you have planned. However, if you bought a new 2022 Jeep Compass in the last three years, you may have discovered it was a troubling choice that put a damper on your excitement. The 2022 Jeep Compass has amassed a significant number of consumer complaints and recalls that highlight potential risks, making it one of the worst cars to purchase.

Navigating the Terrain of Car Complaints

The 2022 Jeep Compass has become a focal point of automotive frustration, with an alarming 147 registered complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). All of these reported issues shed light on the problems affecting everything from the essential safety mechanisms to the vehicle's overall dependability.

Consumer Complaints and the Electrical System

A staggering 74 complaints target the electrical system of the 2022 Jeep Compass. Owners report a concerning trend, finding themselves in a position where the vehicle unpredictably shuts down. This most commonly happened at stop signs or lights, leaving drivers stranded without power. The onboard diagnostics indicated that the engine was running, yet the car remained immobile. These incidents cause significant frustration and create a serious safety risk.

Forward Collision-Avoidance: A False Sense of Security

The forward collision avoidance system, accounting for 32 complaints, has its own share of malfunctions. Drivers have experienced the system disengaging without warning, compromising safety features designed to prevent accidents. In some cases, even after updated software and multiple repairs, drivers are still left with the same issue. They go home from the repair shop just to experience a collision soon after.

A Closer Look at Safety Recalls

Three safety recalls have been issued for the 2022 Jeep Compass that you will need to pay attention to. Offering more insight into their safety defects, these include problems with the electrical system and seat assembly—areas critical for your safe operation of the vehicle.

Your Path Forward With SC Lemon Law

If you purchased a new 2022 Jeep Compass in South Carolina and are having significant issues, you need to understand your rights under SC Lemon Law. Persistent and unresolved defects can qualify your vehicle as a lemon, potentially entitling you to compensation or replacement. Our firm is dedicated to guiding you through this process. When you need a lemon law lawyer, call Steve Moskos to make sure your rights are protected.

At first glance, the 2022 Jeep Compass looks like a modern and versatile SUV, but you just can't ignore the overwhelming volume of complaints and recalls. If you are having the same issues with your vehicle, you shouldn't wait to act. Reach out to us so we can help guide you through the SC Lemon Law process and get you back to smoother roads.

Navigating the Troubles of the 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee: A Lemon Law Guide

3/25/2024

Purchasing a new vehicle like the Jeep Grand Cherokee should be a thrilling and happy day. They come with the promise of advanced technology, comfort, and reliability. However, recent findings and consumer complaints are shining a light on your purchase. It might not be as smooth as you expected, making the 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee one of the worst cars to purchase.

Spotlight on the Issues

The 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been in the news recently for the wrong reasons. There are many concerns being reported to the NHTSA, with 7 recalls and over 115 car complaints filed for the 2023 model alone. These defects could affect your safety and that of your loved ones. Two of the biggest reported issues are with the upper control arm and rear coil springs.

Upper Control Arm Concerns

The upper control arm in the 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a critical flaw: it may break. That can lead to potential steering loss. Imagine driving and suddenly realizing that you can’t steer your vehicle. This experience is terrifying and can put everyone in the car at risk. This defect poses a real threat to your safety on the road. Given the gravity of steering control in vehicle safety, this problem has prompted urgent recalls and consumer alerts, placing this vehicle model in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.

Rear Coil Spring Risks

In addition to the steering issues, the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s rear coil springs have their own set of alarming issues. Over 300,000 vehicles have been recalled because these springs have the potential to detach while driving, a failure that could lead to accidents or loss of vehicle control. This defect was identified during manufacturing, with a “potentially out-of-position rear coil spring” that could become a serious hazard during travel. Although only a fraction of these vehicles are likely to have this problem, the risk it presents to unsuspecting drivers isn’t something you can ignore.

SC Lemon Law and Your Protection

If your new Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to show defects despite multiple repairs, and you purchased it in the last three years, it might qualify as a lemon. Steve Moskos can guide you through the SC Lemon Law process. We will advocate for your right to a refund or replacement vehicle. You deserve a car that meets safety and performance standards, and we’re here to ensure that manufacturers uphold their responsibilities.

The 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee might boast impressive features, but it has faced significant safety concerns that you just shouldn’t ignore. If you’re in South Carolina and grappling with these issues, remember that Lemon Law is here to protect you. Steve Moskos is ready to help you navigate these legal waters to make sure that your concerns are addressed and your rights are protected.

The 2023 Kia Carnival: A Lemon Law Alert

3/10/2024

When you start shopping for a new vehicle, especially a family-oriented one like the 2023 Kia Carnival, you quickly put reliability, safety, and peace of mind at the top of your must-haves. Unfortunately, for some new car owners out there, this excitement has quickly turned into frustration and concern. With a troubling list of consumer complaints and safety recalls, the 2023 Kia Carnival may not be the family van you were hoping for when you drove off the lot.

A Deep Dive into the Concerns

The 2023 Kia Carnival has been the subject of 21 complaints across various systems, from the electrical setup to the engine and even the vehicle’s structural integrity. Notably, the complaints encompass critical safety features.

Safety Concerns Come to the Forefront

For families, the Kia Carnival’s allure includes its capacity and features geared toward convenience and safety. However, the vehicle has been reported to have defective 2nd-row seat belt pretensioners that fail to secure passengers during sudden stops. On top of that, there is unexpected braking due to forward collision warnings. These issues are serious safety concerns. They compromise the vehicle’s reliability, breaking its fundamental promise of protecting passengers.

Mechanical Reliability in Question

There are also car complaints about the Kia Carnival’s mechanical integrity. Oil leaks, steering column failures, and unexplained power loss while driving are so much more than an inconvenience. They create serious risks for drivers and passengers.

The Recalls: A Red Flag

On top of the consumer complaints, there are three recalls associated with the 2023 Kia Carnival, including issues that directly impact passenger safety. These recalls include one for the power sliding doors that may not auto-reverse when obstructed and another for a fire risk when the vehicle is parked due to water accumulation. This clearly shows the severity of the vehicle’s deficiencies. While recalls are a step toward remediation, they also affirm the potential dangers and inconveniences that owners like you will face.

How the Lemon Law in South Carolina Protects You

Lemon lawyers like Steve Moskos understand the disappointment and frustration that comes with owning a vehicle that just falls short, especially when safety is at stake. South Carolina’s Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers from exactly these types of defects. If you’re a South Carolina resident dealing with unresolved defects in your 2023 Kia Carnival and you purchased your new vehicle in the last three years, we are here to help. We specialize in Lemon Law cases and can guide you through the SC Lemon Law process.

From safety defects to performance inconsistencies, the 2023 Kia Carnival’s issues position it as one of the worst cars of 2023. We want you to know that you have rights and options under the SC Lemon Law. Contact us to explore how we can assist you in turning your lemon experience into a resolution that puts you back in the driver’s seat of a reliable and safe vehicle.

Navigating the Troubled Waters of the 2023 BMW IX: A Lemon Law Perspective

2/4/2024

When you finally make the decision to purchase a new car, it should be an exhilarating experience filled with the promise of smooth rides and the scent of fresh upholstery. Yet, for some, this voyage has taken an unexpected turn and creates more headaches than smiles. The 2023 BMW IX, a vessel of modern engineering, has sailed into a storm of consumer complaints and safety recalls that could make any buyer cautious.
A Closer Look at the Car Complaints The 2023 BMW IX has found itself at the center of a whirlwind of consumer grievances. With a total of 23 registered complaints with NHTSA, the issues range from critical safety components to the fundamental reliability of the vehicle's systems.

Airbag Anxieties The airbag system, a critical safeguard in accidents, has been the subject of 11 complaints. Owners report malfunctions that could compromise the safety of passengers, raising serious questions about the reliability of these life-saving devices.

Power and Propulsion Problems The electrical system and propulsion mechanisms have not been immune to scrutiny. Drivers have faced sudden losses of power, instilling doubt in the dependability of the IX's electric heart.

Steering and Brakes Steering and service brakes are also under the spotlight. The ability to steer away from danger or brake to avoid a collision is fundamental, and any inconsistency here is alarming for drivers expecting the utmost in vehicular control.

Collision Avoidance Concerns With forward collision avoidance accounting for 4 complaints, the technology meant to prevent accidents before they occur has instead added to the drivers' worries, suggesting a misalignment between the vehicle's design and its real-world operation.

Recall Repercussions Adding to the gravity of the situation are the 10 recalls issued for the 2023 BMW IX, signaling widespread concerns across multiple vehicle systems. These recalls, which include urgent warnings about fire risks and instructions to cease driving the vehicle, indicate systemic issues that extend beyond individual reports.

All of these issues paint a picture of a vehicle that, while pioneering in its electric ambitions, is navigating a complex maze of quality and safety challenges for potential owners and current drivers.
Your Rights Under the Lemon Law SC lemon law is designed to offer protection and peace of mind, ensuring that your journey in a new car doesn't leave you adrift. If your 2023 BMW IX, bought new in SC and registered in the state, is showing consistent and unrepaired defects, it may be time to exercise your rights by talking to a lemon lawyer like Steve Moskos.

While the allure of the 2023 BMW IX may be strong, the wake of consumer car complaints and safety recalls it leaves behind cannot be ignored. Our firm stands ready to assist you with the SC lemon law if your new car turns out to be a lemon. Contact us, and let's work toward a solution.

Consumer Reports List of Worst Lemon Cars for 2023

11/29/2023

When considering the purchase of a used vehicle, armed with the right information, you can evade the costly mistake of driving off with a lemon. This term, more than just a colloquial expression, refers to defective vehicles plagued by a manufacturer's defect. We're committed to helping our clients navigate the rocky terrains of the automobile world. Drawing insights from leading consumer reports, we've put together a list of the worst lemon cars for 2023.

Chevy Bolt EUV

The Chevy Bolt EUV has been a topic of concern due to recurring issues with its in-car electronics and electric motor. Many consumers have reported unexpected glitches in the infotainment system and unanticipated shutdowns of the electric motor. In addition, there have been complaints about air and water leaks, which can compromise the vehicle's integrity and safety. These defects can be particularly concerning for a car owner, leading some to consult lemon law attorneys for recourse.

Pacifica Hybrid

The Pacifica Hybrid, while celebrated for its eco-friendly design, has faced recalls stemming from its electrical systems. The vehicles have shown an alarming tendency for their electrical components to pose risks, either by jeopardizing the vehicle's structural integrity or posing a threat to nearby flammable objects. This manufacturer's defect has led to increased attention from Consumer Reports.

Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento has garnered attention due to persistent mechanical issues. Engine stalling, a particularly worrisome problem, has been reported frequently. Such malfunctions, especially if occurring while on the road, can pose serious safety risks to both the driver and other road users.

Jeep Wrangler 4xe

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe, despite its robust appearance, has faced recalls in recent production years. These recalls highlight potential long-term issues that could affect vehicle performance and safety. From malfunctioning battery systems to concerns about its powertrain, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe has given consumers reason to pause. Those considering this vehicle are encouraged to explore consumer reports extensively and seek advice from lemon law attorneys if they suspect they've received a defective unit.

Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent has been flagged for a variety of mechanical issues. From reports of unpredictable engine behavior to concerns regarding the transmission, this model has found itself under scrutiny. Some owners have even reported minor problems, like infotainment hiccups, adding to the list of concerns. As always, seeking guidance from consumer reports and keeping the advice of a knowledgeable lemon law attorney in mind can prove invaluable when navigating such challenges.

While every vehicle has its pros and cons, it's essential to be informed about potential manufacturer's defects or consistent issues. Should you find yourself with a lemon, don't hesitate to seek guidance from a professional regarding the SC Lemon Law, like Steve Moskos, ensuring your rights and investments are protected.

How to Spot Odometer Tampering When Buying a Used Car

11/19/2023

In today's bustling used car market, getting value for your money is a top priority. However, amid genuine sellers are a few who might try to dupe you. One of the prevalent frauds that car buyers should be cautious about is odometer tampering. Odometer rollback, as it's often called, is the malicious act of altering a vehicle's mileage to portray it as less driven. But how can you, as a vigilant consumer, safeguard against this kind of fraud?

UNDERSTANDING ODOMETER FRAUD

Odometer tampering isn't a mere trick—it's a breach of consumer trust. Odometer readings provide potential buyers with insights into a car's history, helping gauge its wear and tear and its potential longevity. By rolling back the odometer, sellers unfairly inflate the car's market price. This act, which is both misleading and fraudulent, has led many to seek advice from a consumer fraud attorney, such as Steve Moskos.

SIGNS OF ODOMETER ROLLBACK

Inconsistencies in Vehicle Maintenance Records: A clear record should correspond with the car's odometer reading. Any discrepancy is a glaring red flag.
Wear and Tear Mismatch: Excessive wear on components like pedal rubbers or steering wheel, inconsistent with the reported mileage, warrants caution.
Tamper Evidence: Modern digital odometers are tough but not immune to tampering. Signs of forced entry or alterations are indicators.
Online Tools and Reports: Resources like Carfax are helpful in offering insights into a car's history, including past odometer readings.

How South Carolina Addresses the IssueSouth Carolina takes seriously the issue of odometer tampering. State regulations necessitate a detailed vehicle description during title applications. This includes vital information such as its make, model, year, and the all-important odometer reading. With fraudulent acts being rampant, attorneys like Steve Moskos often emphasize the importance of meticulous documentation to their clients.

Misrepresentations, especially deliberate ones, come with consequences. Knowingly offering false odometer statements is not just unethical but also illegal. In South Carolina, such actions can lead to legal repercussions, including substantial fines and even imprisonment.

EMPOWERING YOURSELF AS A CONSUMER

Staying informed is your most potent weapon against consumer fraud. If you're considering purchasing a used car:

Conduct thorough research. Knowledge about the prevalent tricks and scams will always put you a step ahead.
Use available online tools to verify a car's history.
Always seek a comprehensive vehicle report.
When in doubt, consult a professional. Experts, including attorneys who specialize in consumer fraud, can offer guidance, ensuring you make informed decisions.

While the used car market offers countless treasures, it also has its pitfalls. Odometer tampering, or rollback, is among the top deceptive practices that plague unsuspecting consumers. By staying informed, vigilant, and proactive, you can not only spot such frauds but also protect your interests, ensuring that your hard-earned money fetches you the value it deserves.

How to Request Technical Service Bulletins if You Think You Have a Lemon Law Claim

10/16/2023

A Technical Service Bulletins (TSB), in the simplest terms, is a communication from the manufacturer about a known issue or defect in a specific make and model of a vehicle, but one that doesn't warrant a full-blown recall. While they aren't mandates for repair, TSBs guide dealerships and mechanics on how to address and repair consistent issues that owners might face. Vehicle owners can now find some TSBs, or manufacturers communications, for free through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). TSBs released earlier than 2012 will not be available through the NHTSA website.

Looking up a TSB is a straightforward process:

Head over to the NHTSA's site.
Enter your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or look up by vehicle year and model.
Retrieve a list of TSBs or manufacturer communications that apply to your vehicle.

Additionally, you can request a TSB on your vehicle is through your vehicle manufacturer’s dealership or repair shop.

Once you know are armed with the right information, you can begin work on getting it fixed. It's wise to approach a manufacturer’s mechanic since they possess specialized training about the specifics of your vehicle and are more equipped to tackle issues highlighted in TSBs.

So, what happens if the TSB does not fix the problem in your new car? You may have rights under the South Carolina Lemon Law. The SC lemon law is geared to protect consumers from manufacturing defects that can't be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts.

If you believe you have a lemon, notify the manufacturer in writing about the issue; if unresolved, you may need the help of a SC lemon lawyer, like us at Moskos Law Firm, who can assist you with a possible refund or replacement.

For those who discover they've unwittingly purchased a used vehicle that was previously deemed a lemon and repurchased by the manufacturer, it's pivotal to seek advice from an SC consumer fraud attorney who can help.

Having a vehicle that constantly fails to function correctly can be an ordeal. But armed with the right information about TSBs, you're equipped to tackle the challenges head-on. If you need a consumer lawyer or a South Carolina Lemon Law attorney, contact us to find out how we can help.

the process of titling an abandoned vehicle in south carolina

9/25/2023

Discovering an abandoned vehicle can raise various questions, particularly around legalities and ownership rights. In South Carolina, abandoned vehicles are governed by specific statutes, and there are precise steps to follow if you wish to claim such a vehicle. There is no direct method to title an abandoned vehicle. Instead, you will need to go through the processes to eventually facilitate a public sale or auction. This ensures that vehicles left unattended on public highways or private properties are dealt with legally, and any potential ownership disputes are minimized.
So what exactly constitutes an abandoned vehicle in South Carolina? The criteria are quite specific:

A vehicle left unwatched on a highway for over 48 hours.
A vehicle left on any property, be it private or public, for over seven days without the property owner's permission.
Cars left at shops post-repair completion or post-storage contract expiration, retained for more than thirty days after the owner or lien holder receives a written notice.

The first thing you will need to do about an abandoned car in South Carolina is report the vehicle. This action is essential whether you've discovered an abandoned vehicle on your property or if one has been left at your place of business. If you identify an abandoned vehicle on your private property, you will need to report it through a member of law enforcement, a towing company, a storage facility, a garage, or a repair shop.

Upon receiving a request about an abandoned vehicle, the SCDMV provides an Abandoned Vehicle Report for vehicles registered in South Carolina. If the vehicle is not registered in the state, the SCDMV issue information about the probable state of registration.

Once the necessary information is retrieved from the SCDMV and due notices are sent to the concerned parties, an authorized entity can appeal to the magistrate to organize a public sale. This is where the transformation of the vehicle's title status takes place. The vehicle's purchaser at the auction obtains a title that's free and clear of all previous liens and claims of ownership, allowing them a clean slate. They will need a magistrate's order of sale that can be used to apply for a new title. The expenses of the auction and all related costs are first deducted from the auction sale price. Any remaining amount is held for the vehicle's owner or lienholder for ninety days. This not only provides a resolution for the abandoned vehicle report but also offers potential buyers a unique opportunity to acquire vehicles free from past obligations.

While the journey to claiming ownership of an abandoned vehicle and titling it might seem layered with bureaucracy, understanding and abiding by the set processes ensures compliance with the SC abandoned motor vehicle laws. Potential buyers should remain vigilant and informed, seeing the auction as an avenue to acquire vehicles with a clear title. Always consider consulting a legal expert familiar with unclaimed cars and related legislation in South Carolina to guide you further.

Why car dealerships are charging above MSRP for new vehicles

1/23/2023

Supply chain issues are affecting everyone, not just consumers. Grocery stores can’t get the products they usually sell, and it’s not unusual now to see signs posted at restaurants warning people that some items may not be available due to low or no supplies. This is even true in the automotive industry, and some dealerships are using this issue to their advantage by marking up the price of their vehicles and not just by a few dollars.

To entice buyers, dealerships often lowered the MSRP, or manufacturer’s suggested retail price, by a couple of thousand dollars, maybe more. This gave the impression that the buyer is getting a real deal. But many dealerships now have jettisoned that practice and are selling vehicles at thousands of dollars over MSRP. Why? Because inventory is lower, and once a vehicle is sold, the wait for another one to take its place on the lot can take months.

While manufacturers aren’t happy with these dealerships’ choices, according to a recent NPR article, there’s little they can do about it as most dealerships are independent franchises and can set the prices they want to set.

Michelle Krebs is an automotive researcher who serves at the executive analyst of Cox Automotive, and she told NPR that this was the first time in her career that she’s seen most dealerships charging at list price or over. That has to do with high demand and low inventory, but also because they can. And sometimes, it’s not just a few thousands of dollars over MSRP. It can be tens of thousands of dollars.

Some manufacturers have even urged dealerships to lower the markups or risk not receiving some of their most desired vehicles. But that hasn’t stopped the markups, and it looks like there won’t be a break anytime soon. So Krebs suggests that anyone looking to buy a new vehicle be willing to practice patience and to go outside their comfort zone, which may mean shopping farther away to get a better deal.

The author of the NPR article found his next truck over 400 miles away from his home but still ended up paying $2,000 over the list price. So, while shopping farther away can lower the price of your next vehicle, for the most part, you can expect higher prices at car dealerships for the foreseeable future.

Carvana has had its second massive layoff this year

12/7/2022

Last month, Carvana, the online car dealership, laid off 1,500 employees, or 8% of its work force, which, according to CNBC, was comprised mainly of corporate and tech departments, although some operational positions were affected as well. Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time Carvana has eradicated positions as in May, the company laid off 2,500 employees, or about 12% of its workforce, citing lagging sales.

This most recent layoff comes after Carvana’s stock plummeted yet again, bringing its overall total down 97% this year alone. Though sales were robust during the pandemic, interest rates have risen, and with fears of an economic shutdown, consumers aren’t as focused on buying vehicles at present.

The layoffs came via an internal email message from Carvana’s CEO Ernie Garcia which was titled “Today is a hard day.” He cited higher finance rates and delayed car purchases as part of the reason for the layoffs and added that the company had “failed to accurately predict how this would all play out and the impact it would have on our business.” Also, in the email, Garcia talked about how the world had continued to get tougher, and that painful choices had to be made to adapt.

The company’s problems have escalated since its rapid growth last year, and now, with $6.3 billion in debt and its stock price dropping like hail, it’s uncertain as to whether Carvana can recover from this freefall. It’s something to take note of if you’re in the market for a car as fewer people on the job can affect everything from customer service to financing.

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