Dealership refusing to compensate for their negligence

[u/PopularGrapefruit150]

Dealership is an absolute pain to deal with, I just want to know if I have a leg to stand on here or if I'm SOL. It's a minor bill ($500 including towing), but I feel like this isn't something I should have to deal with 300 miles after buying a car. Just looking for a second opinion, I don't care about the money, I can afford a $500 bill, but I'm just pissed about the situation.

Anyways here goes...

About two weeks ago, I purchased a used vehicle from a dealership. The vehicle was represented as being in proper working condition at the time of sale, passed their 10 point inspection. I purchased a 2023 Hyundai with 39,328 miles. I ran into this problem at 39,600 miles.

Shortly after purchase, I was away for several days. Upon returning, I discovered the vehicle’s engine oil was practically empty. Given the severity of the issue, the vehicle was immediately towed to an independent mechanic that I am familiar with and trust for inspection and repair.

The independent mechanic performed a full evaluation, cleaned the affected components, and identified the cause of the failure as an improperly installed or defective O-ring. The mechanic has documented the condition of the vehicle, the diagnosis, etc. I have photos and videos of the improperly installed o ring as well as how much oil leaked onto the bottom of my car that had to be cleaned.

Based on the timing of the failure, occurring within a week of purchase (only 300 miles) and the nature of the defect, the issue appears consistent with improper servicing or faulty installation existing at the time of sale or delivery (aka negligence).

The vehicle experienced a major loss of oil that, had it occurred while driving long distance, could have resulted in complete engine failure and left me stranded out of state. Thankfully when I went out of state my brother drove us in his car instead of taking mine (I purchased it on Tuesday and we left that Friday, got back Monday night).

I contacted the dealership to request coverage of the repair costs and associated expenses. The dealership has refused, stating that since the vehicle was not brought to them for service they are not required to compensate. I do not believe this is reasonable given the circumstances, the safety risk involved, and the need for independent diagnosis after a mechanical failure immediately following purchase as a result of their negligence.

[u/vestigialfree]

PPI. Pre purchase inspection is for these exact scenarios, so next time you buy a used car take it to your trusted mechanic first.

[u/Budget-Celebration-1 → u/vestigialfree]

How is a ppi going to catch that?

[u/vestigialfree → u/Budget-Celebration-1]

If there’s a loose o ring and it caused a leak I’d imagine when it went on the lift it would show.

Of course there’s a chance it wiggled loose or something but PPI is needed for all used cars regardless of issues that may pop up.