ComplaintsforManheim Auctions

• Initial Complaint

  08/14/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  01/01/23-present Security vehicles and booths are atrocious and disgusting not safe or healthy at all. Its always something nothing gets done correctly ******* coworkers are tired of being treated like this. Managers does no help so the problem is really getting no where either.

  Business response

  08/14/2024

  Can you please provide some additional information, including whether or not you are an auction employee, or a dealer registered with Manheim?  Also, which Manheim location are you referring to? 

• Initial Complaint

  08/13/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Sales and Advertising Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  Summary of Complaint:On 8/08/2024, I purchased a vehicle through Manheim Texas Hobby that was advertised as drivable and operable in the condition report. Upon inspecting the vehicle after the sale, I discovered that the vehicle was neither drivable nor operable. Despite this significant misrepresentation, the auction has refused to arbitrate the sale, citing the as-is status of the vehicle.Prior to the sale, the auction did not allow buyers to obtain the vehicles key from security to verify its condition. We were forced to rely solely on the condition report, which inaccurately represented the vehicles state. This restriction prevented proper due diligence and contributed directly to the misrepresentation.Relevant Guidelines:According to the **** Arbitration Policy (August 5th, 2024):Sellers should avoid using ambiguous, confusing, or deceptive announcements or disclosures as these may be grounds for arbitration.The seller is responsible for the accuracy and completeness of all representations or descriptions.These provisions hold the auction responsible for ensuring accurate descriptions, regardless of the vehicles as-is status. The failure to disclose the true condition of the vehicle and the prevention of buyer verification are clear violations of these guidelines which make the sale both unfair and unethical.

  Business response

  08/14/2024

  Manheim Texas Hobby has discussed the arbitration claim with ****************** on multiple occasions.  The unit ran "As-Is" and there are no grounds to arbitrate mechanical issues.  The unit was also driving, operational and was driven to its location on the lot prior to the sale.  Dealers are able and allowed to test drive units prior to sale day.  This unit is not subject to arbitration per the **** and/or Manheim arbitration policies.  The outcome of the claim remains unchanged. 
  
  

  Customer response

  08/14/2024

   
  Complaint: 22134716
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  The attached image is a direct excerpt from the **** guidelines that Manheim adheres to. Additionally, there are multiple grounds for arbitration that have been overlooked, including the inoperable odometer and the lack of a Blue Light announcement for the missing title. These issues clearly qualify the vehicle for arbitration. All of these issues have been brought to ************** and his teams attention.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  **************

  Business response

  08/14/2024

  There will be no changes to the outcome of the arbitration claim per the management team at Manheim Texas Hobby.

  Customer response

  08/14/2024

   
  Complaint: 22134716
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  
  There has been no effort to resolve this claim using the **** policy. Management at Texas ***** refuses to acknowledge fraud and misrepresentation on their end. This claim has not been resolved.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  **************

• Initial Complaint

  08/08/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  01/28/2024 There was a glitch in the system because bid, approval, invoice, and payment weren't executed during the transaction. After three months I saw my name on KO BOOK 1017. Since then, I have purchased other cars of which I burned out with bad engine. I heard Chicago Independent Auction filed a claim for non-payment. What is the duty of an auction? I didn't go to their website to bid. How have I owed ****** I hope Manheim solves this issue with ***** ASAP and free me from KO BOOK 1017 after 25 years with Manheim.

  Business response

  08/08/2024

  The ** Book contains the names of dealerships and dealers who have failed to pay money owed to Manheim or an Independent Auction.  This can only be resolved by contacting Auction Insurance and/or the Independent Auction where the vehicle was purchased. The entire transaction including payment would be handled through the independent auction, not Manheim.

  Customer response

  08/08/2024

   
  Complaint: 22110420
  
  I am rejecting this response because: Manheim's owns OVE according to Chicagoland Independent Auction. What is the responsibility of an auction? Manheim has failed to carry over its responsibility, therefore, Manheim liable for this transaction. The platform is not for free and there rules and regulation to use it.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *******************-aime

  Business response

  08/08/2024

  OVE is a 24/7 online source owned by Manheim for vehicles from Manheim, independent auctions, commercial and dealer inventory, and more.  The vehicle was facilitated through Chicagoland Independent Auction, which is independent of Manheim.  Any payment, gate release, invoice etc.  would be handled through the independent auction and not Manheim. When dealers do not pay for their purchases, all auctions and flooring companies report this to Auction Insurance. Auction Insurance flags these dealers as uninsurable and adds their names to the ** Book.   

  Customer response

  08/08/2024

   
  Complaint: 22110420
  
  I am rejecting this response because: Again, I didn't go to *********** Independent Auction to bid, I was using Manheim/OVE  which I have been using for the past 25 years with no issue until this incident occurred. Manheim/OVE failed to carry their responsibility. And that happen in the past. It took manheim 3 months to report that, meanwhile, I purchase 2 more cars with bad engine. If the deal wasn't void by them, I wouldn't have purchase those cars. My name must be remove from this nonsense KO BOOK 1017. No seller approval, No invoice, and no request for payment. Manheim is liable for this unfinished process. An auction is bridge on a deal. If the bridge is no longer exist, the deal is void, canceled, and dead.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *******************-aime

  Business response

  08/15/2024

  OVE is a 24/7 online source owned by Manheim for vehicles from Manheim, independent auctions, commercial and dealer inventory, and more.  The vehicle was facilitated through Chicagoland Independent Auction, which is independent of Manheim.  Any payment, gate release, invoice etc.  would be handled through the independent auction and not Manheim. When dealers do not pay for their purchases, all auctions and flooring companies report this to Auction Insurance. Auction Insurance flags these dealers as uninsurable and adds their names to the ** Book.   

• Initial Complaint

  08/05/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I recently purchased a 2012 ******* California through an online auction with Manheim. When we received the vehicle it has an issue with the convertible top not closing and giving the error message trunk open. Also the **** computer was unplugged and in a different location stored in the car, inactive. This was giving the warning **** system malfunction. It also was announced by the seller that the vehicle had factory upgraded yellow calipers, and when I received the vehicle it had red calipers and found all have four have been painted. I alerted arbitration about this and was told to not drive the car and have it transported to the dealer which I did. Although I am not one to fight after a sale has been completed and almost never arbitrate units, the fact that this vehicle was not eligible for a PSI and with the 4.6 CR I believed it was reasonable for me to alert the auction of these problems. After it was dropped off at the ******* dealership, the service advisor told me the next day that there is an issue with the transmission gearbox and the car has an engine light that wasnt on when it came in because it had been cleared for code that indicated the car needs a $22,000 transmission repair. I called arbitration right away and told them about the problem. I was informed that I could not arbitrate a transmission problem not that the car was being looked at for other arbitrable problems. I did exactly as the arbitrator told me to do when I discovered the first set of problems: don't drive the car, bring it straight to the ******* dealership. Its not reasonable to buy a green light *******, follow the arbitrators instructions to a T, and be told the transmission is not arbitrable. I would have discovered the transmission problem if I didnt follow the direct instructions of the arbitrator.The auction is saying I cant arbitrate this green light vehicle for a tens of thousands of dollars transmission job. I am seeking the sale to be unwound.

  Business response

  08/07/2024

  This claim was reviewed by management, and unfortunately **************** did not add the transmission in his original claim. The unit was arbitrated for yellow calipers, ****, and a convertible top issue. After inspection, the **** and convertible top were under the 2% threshold for repairs and would not be subject to arbitration. In regard to the yellow calipers, the inspection at the dealer did confirm the components but also did disclose that the calipers were painted red, and that there were no mechanical issues with this component. This also would not be subject to arbitration. Manheim ****** did speak with the seller to see if they would allow the buyer to add the transmission portion, but this was declined. Per NAAA policy the arbitrator can only inspect what is in the original claim. When speaking to the **************** they were made aware of the policy, and Manheim's attempt at working with the seller but at this time this unit would need to stay a Buyer Bought as there were no arbitrable claims. 
  
  

  Customer response

  08/07/2024

   
  Complaint: 22094935
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  

  1. Calipers were painted. Seller indicated the vehicle had yellow calipers, they were painted red. Vehicle was listed as never having prior paintwork. Lie one.

  2. **** malfunction was supposed to be fixed by dealer auction told me to go to. Dealer told me it was because of a s**** in the tire. Tire was plugged. System was recalibrated. Still no response from **** computer. Misdiagnosed. Lie 2.

  3. Top error was reportedly fixed by dealer. Never fixed. Same error code remains. Unable to operate top due to trunk being open. Lie 3.

  4. Both the **** computer and the convertible top each be over 2% of the price of the unit to repair. The painted calipers were not disclosed and were announced by the seller as YELLOW. The seller misrepresented the unit and the auction does not care. Lie 4.

  I will never buy another unit from Manheim again. 
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *********************

  Business response

  08/08/2024

  Manheim's management team has reviewed this claim once again and their decision remains the same regarding the outcome of buyer bought.

  Customer response

  08/08/2024

   
  Complaint: 22094935
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  

  Unfortunately, Manheim does not care about small businesses they protect their sellers and pick and choose which policies work best for them.

  My dealership group will never buy another car from Manheim again.

  Sincerely,
  
  *********************

• Initial Complaint

  08/04/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  On July 24, we saw a 2023 Model 3 (VIN Number: *****************) listed on Manheim, sold by ************* **** The auction images clearly showed that the car included the Full Self-Driving (***) package purchased which worth $8000. Due to the presence of the *** package, we bided the vehicle from the Manheim auction on July 26. The car was delivered to us via tow on July 29. However, upon receiving the car, we discovered that it does not have the *** package as the photo demonstrated. This discrepancy constitutes false advertising, as we would not have bided the car, without the *** package. We demand that ***** reinstate the permanent *** package for this vehicle, otherwise refund the amount of money *** is worth, which is $8000.

  Business response

  08/05/2024

  Manheim Riverside has determined that the claim being presented is invalid.  First, **** Auto Sales had the opportunity to file and arbitration claim on August 4th as they were still within their timeframe to file an arbitration claim.  Second, the Condition Report available at the time of purchase does not list the Full Self Driving system as being available.  Lastly, the Condition Report shows an "option" of Autopilot which the Manheim Riverside is assuming *************** is associating the self-drive system to.  If clicked on, this would show the system as active or inactive.  The location does not list this option as Tesla controls this option.  The self-drive option, if vehicle was equipped, is deactivated by ***** when the vehicle is returned back to Tesla and sent to the location for sale.  This is an added option a new Client has the option to purchase if they choose to do so and it is approximately $8000 for that option.  This is a non-transferable option as this is how Tesla generates more revenue off of their vehicles.  
  
  As a Buyer, it is their due diligence to understand all options on the vehicle and review all of the information that is available to them.  If they have any questions, they also have the opportunity to call Manheim Riverside and receive verification/information of any vehicle in question.  Had the *************** filed an arbitration claim, all of this would have been explained to them as well.  Location did not mislead Client in the purchasing of their vehicle.  If **** Auto Sales does not have the need for the vehicle, we will provide them an option in having them resell the vehicle through the auction in the same condition they purchased, and location would not be responsible for any loss/gain on resale. 
  
  

  Customer response

  08/07/2024

  Evidence of purchase 

  Business response

  08/07/2024

  Manheim Riverside has determined that the claim being presented is invalid.  First, **** Auto Sales had the opportunity to file and arbitration claim on August 4th as they were still within their timeframe to file an arbitration claim.  Second, the Condition Report available at the time of purchase does not list the Full Self Driving system as being available.  Lastly, the Condition Report shows an "option" of Autopilot which the Manheim Riverside is assuming *************** is associating the self-drive system to.  If clicked on, this would show the system as active or inactive.  The location does not list this option as Tesla controls this option.  The self-drive option, if vehicle was equipped, is deactivated by ***** when the vehicle is returned back to Tesla and sent to the location for sale.  This is an added option a new Client has the option to purchase if they choose to do so and it is approximately $8000 for that option.  This is a non-transferable option as this is how Tesla generates more revenue off of their vehicles.  
  
  As a Buyer, it is their due diligence to understand all options on the vehicle and review all of the information that is available to them.  If they have any questions, they also have the opportunity to call Manheim Riverside and receive verification/information of any vehicle in question.  Had the *************** filed an arbitration claim, all of this would have been explained to them as well.  Location did not mislead Client in the purchasing of their vehicle.  If **** Auto Sales does not have the need for the vehicle, we will provide them an option in having them resell the vehicle through the auction in the same condition they purchased, and location would not be responsible for any loss/gain on resale. 

• Initial Complaint

  07/17/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I purchased a unit from OVE: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze VIN# *****************. Upon paying for the unit at Manheim - Riverside they had advised me that the unit was an offsite pick up and that it was in the city of ***************. I verified on the app and it indeed said the unit was to be picked up at dealership in ************. Besides it taking over 1 hour to get the vehicle release I had called the seller to assure the vehicle was there before making the drive. He said yeah it should be in the back with all the used inventory for auction I said ok and drive all the way down there. Once I arrived the employee there said the car is not here and we dont know where it is at. I said what do you mean you dont know where it is. I told him they had told me on the phone that it was suppose to be there and it also stated on the app as well. He told me let me find out for you and made a few calls. After an hour of waiting he said I dont know and apologized and said for me to contact Manheim. Extremely unprofessional and sad honestly. I wasted my entire day for nothing. I drove 3+ hours to the dealer and 3+ back with nothing on my trailer. Thats 6 hours plus the time I spent there waiting for nothing. I demand that I be compensated and as far as the car goes if they cant locate it then I need my money back in full !! This is extremely frustrating and I am highly disappointed in Manheim for allowing this to happen.

  Business response

  07/18/2024

  Monky Motor Sport LLC opened an arbitration claim yesterday, July 17th after 5:00 PM EST.  The arbitration department will assign an arbitrator to the claim and contact ****************** to discuss the claim.  Currently the arbitration claim is pending, please allow My Central auction's arbitration department time to review the claim, and again, they will contact ****************** directly.  

• Initial Complaint

  07/15/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  My sons car was reposed by ************************* and was taken directly to the mentioned company to be sold at auction before the redemption period was over. I paid over $11,000 for my son to redeem his car. He was finally able to pick up his car from the above business today (7/15/24).. I told my son to check the odometer to see if the car had been driven. To our surprise the odometer had ****** less miles on it than when the car was reposed. My son's oil change sticker was still on his cars window from 8/14/23 which reads ******* miles on it. When he picked up his car today it reads ****** miles. I am concerned as I purchased this vehicle on my sons behalf and I am troubled as to how this may impact a future sale. They have jeopardized my ability to recoup what I paid if a sale is needed. I may be seeking legal action as the car was not returned in the same condition as when taken.

  Business response

  07/16/2024

  Redemption transactions are managed by lenders, and Manheim is solely a holding facility during this process.  The lender, in this case ********** Credit is responsible for all decisions regarding the vehicle.  Any concerns regarding the vehicle would need to be addressed directly with ********** Credit.  

   

   

• Initial Complaint

  07/15/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  So I purchased a vehicle from Manheim as usual. We do fairly a good amount of business based on our size, maybe 10 units from them a year. What happens is that I have an inquiry from a customer that needs a specific car, I start looking and fount is in ****************. I inspect it online based on the misleading pictures that the seller posted, its an As-is car but they forgot to mention that the car has so much rust that it is impossible to repair. It is a vehicle that shouldnt be at an auction unless it is posted as junk or for parts. As soon as we received it I went back to make sure of the pictures, maybe I missed it, the ad was gone. So I submit an arbitration claim with supporting pictures. I get a call from the auction, really nice guy trying to help, he told me can you please take the car to the nearest Manhiem auction and I agreed. 3 hours later he calls again and says unfortunately we cant take it back because the sale price was 2970 + fees of 280, so for me the sale price is 3250 plus freight, but no. Mind you We have A small family owned business that we have been trying to keep open and been struggling. We cant afford to lose this amount of money. I expressed to *******, ******* will take me out of business for $30 which is what the car should been ($3,000) in order to accept the claim. PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM THIS AUCTION. Take your money elsewhere. They really go by their policy ( I bet you dont do that to big dealers) but at the end this is corporate America. The small guy will always lose.

  Business response

  07/17/2024

  ************************* purchased a vehicle that had announced conditions as part of the sale.  One of the announced conditions was for the vehicle being sold with structural damage.  This is a required disclosure according to NAAA arbitration policy.  The structural announcement covers rust of the vehicle where it has compromised the structural integrity of the vehicle, thus the announcement of structural damage.  The vehicle was announced AS-IS at the time of sale and purchased for under $3000.00 which also deems the arbitration claim to be invalid.  The seller, in this case followed the rules, and the buyer does not have a valid claim concerning this vehicle.

  Customer response

  07/17/2024

   
  Complaint: 21991780
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  
  It is perfectly correct and right to advertise a car with shinny pictures and not mention RUST, Frame damage, rejected inspection notice? The seller didnt disclose any of this and that is what is wrong. All I can see is picture and read a description. And I paid $3250 for the vehicle, the fees came out of my pocket to Manhiem. What I see is that the game is just to s**** the next guy which is something that I will not do. I like to sleep well at night with a clean conscience. Manheim does have a Junk category, this is where this car falls under.

  Please review the differences from Google:

  Rust:

  Rust can develop in different areas of a car, including on the surface, in body panels, or in structural parts. Surface rust can be caused by exposure to moisture or air, and can appear as discoloration in the metal. Deep rust, also known as rot, is more serious and can compromise the structural integrity of the rusted area. Deep rust can look similar to surface rust, but the metal may appear weaker and may have holes or cracks. Rust can be repaired, but it can become more difficult and expensive the longer it's left untreated. 
  
  
  Structural damage:

  Structural damage can include damage to the car's frame, chassis, or other essential support systems. It can be caused by a severe collision that deforms the car's structure to protect its occupants. Signs of structural damage can include uneven gaps between doors, visible cracks or bends in the frame, and irregular tire wear. Structural damage can impact a car's performance, safety features, and resale value.

  Sincerely,
  
  *************************

  Business response

  07/18/2024

  Manheim ************** has confirmed that there will be no changes made to the outcome of the arbitration claim filed by ******************. 

• Initial Complaint

  07/09/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I am writing to file a complaint against Manheim ************ regarding the purchase of a 2016 *** i8 GIGA WORLD (VIN: *****************). The vehicle was purchased on June 25, 2024, for $40,835.00, with the understanding that it had mainly exterior/cosmetic issues and a missing electric charger.However, upon receiving the vehicle, I discovered several significant and undisclosed issues: Drive Battery Issue: The condition report inaccurately stated that the only problem was a missing "Drive Battery Charging Cable." In reality, the drive battery is non-functional, and the car does not charge even after being left overnight. Drivetrain Malfunction: The vehicle displayed a "Drivetrain malfunction...Consult service center" message as soon as I turned it on. This critical issue was never mentioned in the listing. Non-functional Air Conditioning: The air conditioning system only blows hot air, making the car undrivable in *******'s climate without open windows. Overdue Service: The vehicle indicates "Service due since 5000 mi 09/2022" upon startup, which was not disclosed.Despite the vehicle being sold "AS IS," these issues were not disclosed, tricking me to believe the vehicle was in a condition it was not. The condition report sections where these problems should have been listed were left blank as in nothing wrong with them, therefore giving a false impression of the vehicles state.I have opened an arbitration claim, but it was rejected on the premise that the vehicle was sold "AS IS." While I am willing to cover the costs for fixing the ** and overdue service out of my own pocket, I cannot accept being deceived about a missing charger when the real issue is a non-working battery, which is extremely expensive to fix.I have proof of all these issues and request that Manheim Philadelphia take responsibility for the misleading information and address the non-functional drive battery.

  Business response

  07/15/2024

  A mechanical inspection of the vehicle was not performed by Manheim Philadelphia and the seller chose to sell the unit AS-IS.  Difast Import & ***************** purchased the vehicle with a ***************** AS-IS which means that vehicles under the Red Light will only qualify for arbitration under the rules outlined in this policy- (AS-IS dollar amount, model years, and mileage are subject to local policy).  This information can be found in the **** auction policy which is agreed to by every registered dealer.  Manheim Philadelphia has reviewed and confirmed their arbitration decision which will remain the same.  

  Customer response

  07/15/2024

   
  Complaint: 21964037
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  It does not matter if a inspection of the vehicle was not performed by Manheim
  ************. The seller chose to sell the unit AS-IS however advertised it differently...It would be as if I purchased a ******** vehicle "as is" but instead received a **** truck. Selling something "as is" does not give an excuse to trick your customers and lie about what I would receive. That is exactly what Manheim allowed to happen and I will be seeking legal counsel for which I have proof on. You should be hearing from my lawyer soon.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *****************************

  Business response

  07/16/2024

  The individual who has filed this complaint is not a registered dealer with Manheim, and he did not purchase the vehicle.  ********************************* was the representative who purchased the unit under his dealership Difast Import & ************* Inc.  The dealership filed an arbitration claim that was reviewed by Manheim's arbitration department.  The claim was deemed to be invalid on 7/10/24 by industry policies due to the car being sold AS-IS. This was not a retail transaction, and there will be no changes to the outcome of the claim. 

  Customer response

  07/16/2024

   
  Complaint: 21964037
  
  I am rejecting this response because:

  Manheim is rejecting responsibility. I can have my representatives open a claim on BBB as well, but that would be futile since Manheim does not want to address the issue.

  The vehicle, which was sold to me on an 'AS IS' basis, was misrepresented in multiple significant ways, resulting in substantial financial and personal inconvenience. Specifically:
  The drive battery was stated to be merely missing a charging cable; however, it is in fact non-functional.
  The vehicle displays a 'Drivetrain malfunction' message, which was not disclosed prior to the sale.
  The air conditioning system is non-functional.
  The vehicle indicates a service has been overdue since September 2022.
  These undisclosed issues and misrepresentations constitute a clear breach of fair business practices. The omissions and inaccuracies in the vehicle's condition and history are unacceptable and have caused me considerable distress and financial burden.
  As you have failed to address these grievances satisfactorily, I have decided to escalate this matter. You will be hearing from my legal counsel shortly, as I am preparing to take all necessary legal actions to resolve this issue and seek appropriate compensation for the damages incurred. You have not performed your due diligence of fair business practice which is illegal. I trust that this letter will prompt you to reconsider your approach and take immediate steps to rectify this situation.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *****************************

• Initial Complaint

  06/11/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Order Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  Dear BBB,I am writing to formally lodge a complaint against Manheim ************** regarding a fraudulent vehicle sale. On 6-6-24, I purchased a 2018 Cadillac Escalade through their auction. However, after taking possession of the vehicle, I discovered severe frame damage that was not adequately disclosed during the auction process The vehicle has significant frame damage, which was not properly disclosed at the time of the auction. This damage severely impacts the vehicle's safety and value Manheim Fredericksburg claims the damage was announced verbally during the auction. However, in the noisy and chaotic environment of the auction, it is nearly impossible to clearly hear or understand such announcements. The manner in which the information was presented was not clear or comprehensible Unsatisfactory Response from Arbitration Team Upon discovering the damage, I contacted Manheim's arbitrations team. They informed me that they could not assist me, as they claimed the damage was verbally disclosed during the auction. This response is wholly inadequate and unacceptable.Impact:The undisclosed damage has not only caused significant financial loss but also put my safety at risk by selling a vehicle with severe structural damage.Resolution Sought:I request a full refund for the purchase of the 2018 Cadillac Escalade or an equivalent exchange for a vehicle without such undisclosed damage. I believe that Manheim ************** should be held accountable for their failure to provide transparent and honest information about the vehicle's condition Conclusion:I am seeking the BBB's assistance in resolving this matter promptly and ensuring that Manheim ************** adheres to fair business practices in the future. I believe that this issue is of significant importance and must be addressed to prevent other consumers from facing similar problems Thank you for your time and assistance. I look forward to a swift resolution to this matter.Sincerely,Best Car llc

  Business response

  06/13/2024

  Dealer 1 Auto purchased the vehicle with announced conditions as part of the sale.  One of the announced conditions was that the vehicle was being sold with structural damage.  This is a required disclosure according to the National Auto Auction Association arbitration policy.  The rules were followed by the seller, and Dealer 1 Auto does not have a valid claim in regards to his purchase.  Attached is the Bill of Sale which reflects the announcements made at the time of sale.
  
  

  Customer response

  06/13/2024

  Subject: Response to Manheim **************'s Message Regarding Fraudulent Sale of 2018 Cadillac Escalade
  
  Thank you for your prompt response. However, I must express my continued dissatisfaction with how this situation has been handled. There are several critical points that need to be addressed regarding the sale of the 2018 Cadillac Escalade:

  
  Green Light Sale Misrepresentation:
  The vehicle was sold under a green light designation, which typically indicates that the vehicle is free from major issues and is in good condition. A car with severe frame damage should not be sold under this classification. It should have been clearly marked "AS IS" to accurately reflect its condition and alert potential buyers to the significant damage.

  
  Inadequate Disclosure:
  A mere verbal announcement during the auction is insufficient for disclosing such critical information as frame damage. The chaotic environment of an auction makes it difficult to hear and understand such announcements clearly. Proper disclosure should involve explicit, written statements and visible markings in the auction listing and documentation to ensure buyers are fully aware of the vehicles condition.

  
  Incomplete Inspection Documentation:
  The auction's inspection process included taking photos of minor damages and scratches but failed to document the significant frame damage. This omission appears deliberate, intending to conceal the extent of the damage and encourage higher bids. Transparent and comprehensive documentation of all damages, especially those as severe as frame damage, is essential for maintaining buyer trust and upholding ethical sales practices.

  
  Misleading Practice with Listing and Color Coding:
  In the original listing from Manheim C.R, the structural damage was clearly announced in red color, indicating severe damage. However, during the auction, the vehicle was marked with a light brown dot, suggesting a less severe condition. This practice of downplaying the severity of known issues is deceptive and designed to attract buyers under false pretenses.

  
  Additional Concerns:
  This deceptive practice not only misleads buyers but also poses serious safety risks. I was fortunate to notice the driving issues immediately and stopped the vehicle before any harm occurred. However, this could have easily led to a major accident endangering lives. It is imperative that such vehicles are properly marked as unsafe to drive to prevent potential tragedies.

  
  Legal Framework and Obligations:
  Under the Corporate Transparency Act and Virginia's 59.1-200 law, businesses are obligated to maintain transparency and honesty in their dealings. Failure to disclose critical information about the condition of a vehicle, especially one with severe structural damage and a history as a manufacturer buyback, constitutes a breach of these legal standards.

  
  Resolution Sought:
  Given these points, I firmly believe that the sale was conducted under misleading and unsafe conditions. I demand a full refund for the purchase of the 2018 Cadillac Escalade or an equivalent exchange for a vehicle without such undisclosed damage. It is crucial that Manheim ************** takes immediate steps to rectify this situation and ensure full transparency in their future auctions.

  
  I expect a prompt and satisfactory resolution to this matter. If necessary, I am prepared to escalate this issue further to protect consumers and uphold fair business practices.
  Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

  
  Sincerely,
  BEST CAR LLC 

  Business response

  06/13/2024

  Manheim Fredericksburg adamantly stands behind their decision regarding Best Car LLC's claim.  As stated previously, one of the announced conditions was for structural damage.  While there was a green light on the vehicle, there was also a yellow light which indicates that there is an announced condition on the vehicle which was for the structural damage.  The structural announcement was not only done verbally, it was also provided in the announced conditions in writing on the display screens both during the auction, and online.  Furthermore, the announced condition was also represented on the Condition Report that was attached to the vehicle.  

  Customer response

  06/13/2024

   
  Complaint: 21834728
  

  Thank you for your response. I appreciate your adherence to providing additional details regarding the sale of the 2018 Cadillac Escalade. However, I must respectfully reiterate my concerns regarding the transaction, particularly regarding the disclosure of structural damage and the subsequent sale under misleading circumstances.
  I am rejecting this response because the Clarification of Issues:

  1. Misrepresentation of Green and Yellow Lights
      While the vehicle was marked with both a green and yellow light during the auction, the presence of a yellow light does not sufficiently mitigate the severity of undisclosed structural damage. It is crucial to emphasize that buyers rely on accurate and transparent information to make informed purchasing decisions. The combination of a green light and a yellow light, without clear and unambiguous disclosure of the extent of structural damage, is misleading and deceptive.
  
  2. Verbal and Written Announcements

     I acknowledge the verbal and written announcements of the structural damage during the auction and on the online display screens. However, the effectiveness of such announcements can be significantly compromised in the noisy and crowded environment typical of auction settings. Furthermore, the severity and implications of structural damage, such as impaired driving safety and potential legal implications under state laws and consumer protection statutes, necessitate explicit and unequivocal disclosure.
  
  3. Condition Report and Disclosure Obligations
      While the structural damage was noted in the Condition Report attached to the vehicle, the adequacy and visibility of this disclosure must be questioned. The Condition Report should have prominently highlighted the structural damage, ensuring that prospective buyers were fully informed before participating in the auction. Failure to provide clear and accessible information undermines consumer trust and compliance with regulatory standards.
  
  Under the Corporate Transparency Act and Virginia's 59.1-200 law, businesses are mandated to maintain honesty, transparency, and fairness in their dealings with consumers. The sale of a vehicle with undisclosed structural damage, combined with misleading indicators such as green and yellow lights, constitutes a breach of these legal obligations.
  
  Given the discrepancies outlined above, I continue to assert my request for a full refund of the purchase price for the 2018 Cadillac Escalade. Alternatively. It is imperative that Manheim Fredericksburg takes proactive steps to rectify this situation promptly and transparently.
  
  I trust that you will reconsider the gravity of this matter and act in accordance with ethical business practices and legal obligations. Prompt resolution of this dispute is essential to restoring confidence in your auction process and ensuring fair treatment of consumers.
  
  I kindly request a response within to discuss how we can resolve this matter amicably. Should this matter remain unresolved, I may be compelled to explore further legal remedies to protect my rights and interests.
  
  Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your prompt response.
  
  Sincerely,
  Best Car LLc

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