In the world of vehicle design and manufacturing, hybrid vehicles represent relatively new technology. They haven’t even been available nationwide for two whole decades yet.
However, as more people look to reduce the environmental impact of their daily commute for the costs of their local travel, hybrid vehicles have become increasingly popular. There are always concerns about fraud when buying used equipment.
Hybrid batteries are just one more thing that a dealership could misrepresent when trying to sell a vehicle.
You need to know about the batteries to make an informed decision
You may have felt lucky to find a hybrid that seemed like it was in very good condition at a local dealership. You happily signed the purchase paperwork and drove home with a vehicle that you expected would get 40 miles a gallon or perhaps more.
However, when you begin tracking the actual gas consumption of your vehicle, you found it was far lower than what the model typically averages. You took your vehicle to your mechanic to have them check it out, and they let you know that there is an issue with the hybrid batteries.
You will have to replace those batteries, which means an investment of possibly several thousand dollars. Is the dealership responsible for those costs?
Dealerships should provide accurate vehicle information
You did not buy a hybrid vehicle just to drive it around using the gas engine all the time. You bought it because the batteries reduce the gas consumption and make it a more efficient vehicle. Even dealerships selling used cars in as-is condition should inspect the vehicles they sell before signing them over to new owners.
If a dealership knew and did not tell you about the issue with the batteries, an as-is sales agreement does not necessarily exempt them from consequences. Realizing that withholding information is a form of dealership fraud can help you seek Justice.