by Kia Customer Drags Dealership Into Bizarre Legal Battle
An unusual legal dispute has erupted in Ohio between a customer, Tia McCrery, of the Taylor Kia of Lima dealership and the dealer itself. McCrery purchased a used 2022 Kia K5, but due to financing issues, the car was repossessed. In response, the woman registered the dealership’s name under her own ownership and sent them a legal cease-and-desist order prohibiting them from using the name.
Initially, the deal seemed successful: McCrery signed all the necessary documents, including an arbitration agreement. However, a few weeks later, the finance company deemed her income insufficient for the loan, and the car was taken back. While researching her rights, the woman discovered that the dealership had not renewed its name registration and took advantage of this.
The court ruled that the arbitration issue pertains only to the car, but the conflict over the use of the name remains a separate legal proceeding.
This story serves as a reminder of how important it is to pay close attention to legal nuances, especially during major purchases. Although McCrery failed to get the car back, her actions led to a protracted legal battle that could have serious financial consequences for the dealer. The case also raises questions about the ethics of using electronic signatures and the transparency of financial deals at car dealerships.
