offered by
Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
related to
Lemon Laws

Private Party Car Sales

If you buy a car from a private seller in Massachusetts and discover that it’s defective, you may be able to return it within 30 days of purchase if you can prove that the seller knew about the defect but didn’t disclose it.

If you bought your car from a private seller, and you discover that it has substantial problems that impair your safety or ability to drive it, you may return it to the seller within 30 days of purchase. Below, learn how to return a car according to the Lemon Law and what to do if a seller won’t refund your money.

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Private Party Used Car Sales 

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Return a car purchased through a private party sale under the Lemon Law  

What you need to know

What to do if your car fails inspection and the seller won't void the contract  What to look out for when buying a used car 

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Additional Resources

To report activity by a dealer or private seller contact the police department or licensing authority of the city or town where the vehicle is located
To report odometer fraud by a dealer or private seller to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
To check if your specific vehicle is covered under a recall (manufacturer must fix the problem at no cost to you)
To file a complaint about a business to the Attorney General’s Office
A Dealer’s Guide to the Massachusetts Used Vehicle Warranty Law (PDF 435.45 KB)
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