Does anyone here know the consequences of a dealership selling a car with a broken Check Engine Light on purpose?

Thanks guys.

PS. If you want to know, I did some research/talked to a mechanic/and tested out my car. I basically started it, took off the fuel tank cap, and sat there... waited for the CEL to come on. It never did.

PS#2. I have a Carfax Guarantee on it.

 

The consequences would be severe, it's called fraud, but good luck trying to prove it...

 

Surely, there would be a consequence if the allegation is true. But, are you sure the check engine light (bulb) is malfunctioning. Try turning the ignition key to the on position (without starting the engine). The check engine light should appear to the right of the tachometer. If it does not illuminate, then the bulb is burnt out. If it does illuminate, then the source of your issue may be the ECU. Here the consequences will be costlier. More so than a burnt out light bulb. Nonetheless, removing your fuel cap will not always produce a CEL immediately. The ECU may have to go full cycle before it senses the loose fuel cap. Hope this helps.

 

Yeah... the bulb comes on during light check. I'm sure the dealer did some scandalous work to the car before they sold it and it's computer related.

 

I suggest that you stop wasting bandwidth, and contact the California bureau of automotive repair. The can provide you with a means to initiate a claim (assuming you have one).

 

damn, that sucks.. one thing i can't stand is sketchy, fishy, shady dealerships... hope you can take them down!!!

 

Well I called in about sueing them, and told them to get ready. They were supposed to call me today, and still haven't called. Blah.