What protection is offered to the buyer of an automobile if there is suspected fraud in the paperwork?

What protection is offered to the buyer of an automobile if there is suspected fraud in the paperwork?

My girlfriend recently bought a car and paid by check in full at the dealership. There were 2 checks written at the dealership, 1 for $17.5k, and 1 for $2k, that totaled to the agreed price. The second check was written to be cashed at a later date, as my girlfriend was selling her current car to another dealer and would not have the money on deposit for a few days. She took delivery and everything was finalized. A month later, she began receiving calls from the dealer saying she owed them $2k still. After reviewing the contract, it appears they slipped in a $2k down payment.

Asked on February 15, 2012 under General Practice, California

Answers:

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