Cars are moved around to meet the needs of the used car market and consumer demand. The process can, and frequently does, involve a number of states. Indeed, the vehicles may travel across vast areas of the country after being repurchased and before being finally sold to a consumer. Both the states and manufacturers have recognized the need to provide disclosure to consumers concerning vehicles that have been repurchased under state lemon laws. However, because of the interstate nature of the resale process and the number of different parties involved in the chain of transactions, the notice is not always received by the consumer.
Most manufacturers have elaborate notice procedures.
For some, auction purchasers receive forms making full disclosure of the reasons for the repurchase. These forms must be signed by purchasers who are, in turn, directed to give further notice to the next purchaser. Other manufacturers provide repurchased vehicles with an extended warranty that only begins when the ultimate consumer advises the manufacturer of purchase. The forms that accompany this warranty may include an acknowledgment of the vehicle's history. However, because manufacturers do not resell the vehicles to consumers, they cannot guarantee that in all cases the notice will reach the consumer.