Michigan Department of State halted a Hyundai dealership’s sales for creating a ‘threat to the public’
The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) yanked LaFontaine Hyundai of Livonia’s business license over some pretty serious allegations. MDOS took action in December, citing “imminent harm to the public.” While it’s now back in business, the dealership downplayed the state’s allegations.
The state claimed the dealership leased out used vehicles, but told customers they were new
That’s a big no-no. Investigators said LaFontaine Hyundai falsified paperwork, messed up title and registration filings, and played fast and loose with odometer disclosures and dealer plates. Basically, it was a greatest-hits list of things you shouldn’t do if you’re in the car business.
Just one day into its suspension, the tune changed. The dealership admitted to everything the state found in its investigation. They accepted the penalties, including financial ones, and in return, the state reinstated their license, CBS News shared.
LaFontaine Automotive Group tried to downplay the situation in a public statement
They called it “an isolated incident on one specific vehicle resulting from a clerical error.” You know…just a little paperwork mix-up that somehow managed to involve multiple violations of state law.
Despite the eyebrow-raising list of issues, the dealership reopened the next day, business as usual. If you’ve got a complaint, though, the state wants to hear from you. Call the Office of Investigative Services at 844-372-8356.
How to avoid this kind of dealership shenanigans
No one wants to drive off in what they think is a brand-new car, only to find out later it had a previous life. So here’s how to protect yourself:
Check the VIN: Get a vehicle history report (like Carfax). If the car’s been titled before, it’s not new…no matter what the window sticker says.
Read the paperwork: Don’t sign anything until you see the title status, odometer reading, and sale type clearly spelled out. Ask questions. Get things in writing.
Inspect the vehicle: Look for signs of wear—scratches, worn pedals, miles on the odometer. A “new” car shouldn’t look or feel lived-in.
Shop around: If a deal seems off or a salesperson gets cagey when you ask questions, walk away. There are plenty of honest dealers out there.
