Livonia dealership agrees to fines, penalties after having license suspended over multiple violations
(CBS DETROIT) — A car dealership in Livonia that had its license suspended for allegedly leasing used vehicles as new has resumed operation after agreeing to fines and penalties.
On Thursday the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) suspended the license of LaFontaine Motors of Livonia Inc., also known as LaFontaine Hyundai of Livonia, for "imminent harm to public," the department said in a news release.
The dealership, located at 34715 Plymouth Road in Livonia, is accused of multiple violations of the Michigan Vehicle Code, including falsifying documentation to misrepresent a used vehicle as a new one.
On Friday, the state announced that the dealership admitted all violations found during the state's investigation and has accepted financial and other penalties.
The state says the dealership has admitted to fraudulent acts in connection with selling or otherwise dealing in vehicles, misrepresenting a vehicle as new, failing to make an application for title and registration in the purchaser's name within 21 days of vehicle delivery, failing to have a title in immediate possession with the proper odometer information properly completed, failing to properly issue a temporary registration, failing to properly complete the RD-108 and improper use of dealer plates and odometer disclosure.
In a statement, LaFontaine Automotive Group said:
LaFontaine Hyundai Livonia's license was reinstated this morning and the dealership resumed business. The Michigan Department of State's brief investigation concluded that this was an isolated incident on one specific vehicle resulting from a clerical error. The trust and confidence of our valued guests are our top priorities, and we approach this matter with the utmost seriousness. We are deeply committed to preserving the reputation we've worked hard to build over the last 40 plus years.
Consumers who have a complaint against the dealership can call the Office of Investigative Services automotive complaint line at 844-372-8356.
