A dealer can sell a vehicle with defective or missing emission equipment as long as the information is disclosed to the purchaser on the disclosure label and a warning is put on the purchase contract. However, it is a violation of federal law for anybody to tamper with or remove emission equipment. I have a neighbor who has been fixing and selling used cars on a regular basis. It seems as though he's been getting as much business as some of the dealers in town. Anyone selling more than five cars a year is required by law to become a licensed dealer.
Dealers face many state and federal regulations when selling cars.
By law, a dealer is required to inform you in writing of significant existing mechanical and structural defects in its used cars. A private seller doesn't have to follow any disclosure rules. Buying a used car from a private seller is often a great deal. But, take the time to make sure you've made the right decision before you buy. To the top of this page Contact the Department of Ag, Trade and Consumer Protection by email.