Union County Luxury Car Dealer Sued for Allegedly Scamming Consumers

A high-end luxury car dealership in Springfield is being sued for allegedly engaging in bait-and-switch and other deceptive practices affecting more than 80 customers, Acting New Jersey Attorney General John J. Hoffman announced Tuesday.

The Division of Law in State Superior Court in Union County alleges that 21st Century Auto Group, Inc., specializing in used Lamborghinis and BMWs, committed multiple violations of New Jersey’s Consumer Fraud Act and Motor Vehicle Advertising Regulations.

“Our investigation uncovered a pattern of allegedly deceptive practices that dates back several years and that cost individual consumers hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars, with no regard for their rights or for the law,” Hoffman said.  “This type of conduct harms consumers and tarnishes the reputation of an entire industry.  Our primary goal is to obtain full restitution for the customers allegedly abused by these tactics.”

To date, the Division of Consumer Affairs has received 84 consumer complaints, with customers alleging that the company exploited them through numerous unlawful, deceptive practices including, among others: bait-and-switch; refusing to honor the advertised or agreed-upon prices for vehicles; refusing to return deposits after consumers had canceled their sales transactions; refusing to issue warranties or to honor warranties that had been issued; requiring consumers to sign blank sale documents; and refusing to provide sale documents after consumers signed them, according to a press release issued by the Attorney General's office.  

“Our findings of a repeated history of alleged manipulation and deception of unwary consumers is disturbing and necessitated action,” Consumer Affairs director Eric Kanefsky said. “Whether a consumer is buying a Lamborghini or a Hyundai, they have the right to be treated ethically and honestly by the dealership.”
 
Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of consumer abuse, can file a complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 or 973-504-6200.