AG: Midstate auto dealers targeted for deceptive practices

New Kingstown Auto LLC, of Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, and Yasse’s Auto Sales LLC, of Steelton, Dauphin County, were among 29 individuals and businesses targeted by the Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection as a result of investigations conducted in 2016, Attorney General Bruce R. Beemer said Tuesday.

The agency filed suit against New Kingstown Auto alleging that the company publishes advertisements without disclosing the business’ name, and allowed individuals to sell vehicles without being properly licensed. That litigation is ongoing, according to a report from Beemer’s office.

Anyone who sells five or more motor vehicles in a calendar year must be licensed in Pennsylvania, and licensed salespeople may only sell motor vehicles for the dealership that they are associated with by the State Board.

A man who responded to a call at New Kingstown on Tuesday morning said only that he was unable to comment on the matter.

Also according to the AG’s office, Yasse’s Auto Sales advertised vehicles for sale on Craigslist without disclosing a business name and caused confusion by offering limited warranties on vehicles sold “as-is.” An assurance of voluntary compliance was filed, resulting in a civil penalty of $1,850, the agency said.

A man who answered at Yasse’s Tuesday morning said the person who could comment on the matter would not be available until later in the afternoon.

In addition to the legal actions, the Bureau of Consumer Protection in 2016 issued 130 warning letters to new and used motor vehicle dealers related to advertising and sales concerns.

Agents with the Bureau of Consumer Protection reviewed online, television, radio and other forms of advertisements to ensure organizations are complying with relevant federal and state laws. The initiative has been led by Deputy Attorney General Nicole R. DiTomo.

Consumers who wish to file a complaint regarding their purchase of new or used motor vehicles are encouraged to call 1-800-441-2555 or go to www.attorneygeneral.gov to file a complaint online.