A Better Way Wholesale Autos, Inc., a used car dealership based in Naugatuck, Connecticut, is facing legal action from Attorney General William Tong. The lawsuit alleges that the dealership engaged in deceptive sales practices, specifically concerning the sale of used vehicles that may not have undergone mandatory safety inspections and lacked proper documentation.
The Attorney General’s office initiated an investigation into A Better Way Wholesale Autos in 2021 following numerous complaints from consumers. These complaints detailed instances where vehicles were sold without prior inspections or before deposits were even placed. Customers reported significant issues emerging shortly after purchase, including defective engines, transmissions, suspensions, and other critical components, in some cases rendering the cars undriveable. Further complaints included undisclosed prior damage, accident histories, and instances of flood damage.
Attorney General William Tong announces lawsuit against A Better Way car dealership for deceptive practices and selling potentially unsafe used vehicles.
Attorney General Tong stated, “A Better Way Wholesale Autos failed to complete and document critical safety inspections that are legally required. It appears they sold damaged used cars and concealed vital information from consumers. These egregious actions clearly violate state statutes and endangered their customers and the public. Despite opportunities to cooperate and rectify their practices, A Better Way did not. We are taking action today to hold them accountable for these deceptive practices.”
Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli of the Department of Consumer Protection emphasized the severity of the dealership’s actions: “Misleading consumers about purchases is always wrong, but it is especially serious when that misinformation endangers consumers and others on the road. Safety inspections are essential, and we hope this lawsuit will prevent the sale of unsafe vehicles to unsuspecting consumers in the future.”
Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Tony Guerrera added, “Consumer protection safeguards are in place for a reason. We take all complaints, especially those involving used car warranties, with the utmost seriousness.”
Connecticut state law mandates comprehensive safety inspections before any used car is sold at retail. Any defects that are not repaired must be clearly documented. Vehicles sold “as is” must be conspicuously marked, and all relevant documents, including purchase orders, invoices, titles, and assignments, must be marked as “not in condition for legal operation on the highways.”
The lawsuit asserts that A Better Way Wholesale Autos made false and misleading statements to consumers regarding the features, performance, and condition of their vehicles. The dealership allegedly misled buyers into believing their vehicles were safe, inspected, roadworthy as advertised, and would not require further safety inspections or repairs.
The Attorney General’s Office is seeking restitution for affected consumers, civil penalties of up to $5,000 for each violation of the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act, and an injunction to compel A Better Way to fully comply with state laws.
Consumers seeking more information or wishing to file a complaint can contact the Attorney General’s office at 860-808-5318 or attorney.general@ct.gov. Further details about the case can be found by clicking here to view the official complaint.
