Consumer Information

We at the California New Car Dealers Association are concerned with the needs of consumers. In this section, consumers can find links to governmental agencies affecting the new motor vehicle industry, manufacturer websites, and websites with information about new vehicles. For those customers having problems or concerns about their new motor vehicle purchase, we offer links to dispute resolution resources specializing in new vehicle transactions.


Consumer Problems

We believe that customers and dealers should walk away from their transactions mutually satisfied. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. When problems occur, we strongly suggest speaking with the dealer, who will almost always seek to satisfy their customers. When this is not the case, a fair, independent and inexpensive dispute resolution process is best for all parties concerned. The following websites provide information on ways to resolve disputes that parties to a new motor vehicle transaction cannot settle on their own:
Informative Web Sites

We believe that the best vehicle sales take place when both the dealer and the consumer walk away satisfied with the deal. To make this a reality, we believe that every consumer of an automobile should be a well-educated consumer. To assist with this goal, we've provided a list of useful websites that can help consumers find which vehicles suit their purposes:
  • Kelley Blue Book: Find updated values for new and used vehicles in different conditions.
  • Edmunds:Research new and used cars, trucks and SUVs with unbiased auto information.
  • Car and Driver: Provides vehicle reviews and news on the automotive industry.
  • J.D. Power: Visit the J.D. Power Consumer Center for automotive quality ratings as well as consumer-based ratings on other products and services.
  • Motor Trend: Provides vehicle reviews and information on the latest trends in the vehicle industry.
  • Intellichoice.com: Provides reviews, information and buying guides for people looking to purchase new vehicles.
  • AWARE: Americans Well-Informed on Automobile Retailing Economics (AWARE) is a national campaign to build a greater understanding among consumers about how the vehicle financing process works.

Agencies

We believe that consumers should be fully aware of the services offered by California's Government Agencies regarding new vehicle purchases. As such, we have included links to the following websites for consumers to view:
  • Department of Motor Vehicles: Provides information, resources and services for several consumer needs, including vehicle registration and renewal.
  • New Motor Vehicle Board: Provides a free consumer/dealer mediation service to settle disputes regarding new vehicle purchases.
  • Department of Consumer Affairs: Allows consumers to file complaints against businesses licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs.
  • Bureau of Automotive Repair: Provides tips on keeping vehicles in their best-running condition and finding reputable repair services. Also provides services for retiring and replacing or repairing high-polluting vehicles.
  • Air Resources Board: Provides information regarding California's air quality and tips consumers can use to reduce their environmental footprint. Also contains information regarding hybrid vehicle eligibility for using carpool lanes.
  • Environmental Protection Agency: Provides information regarding environmental protection, and educational resources for finding how to best manage our impact upon the environment.