|
Text Size: A+| A-| A   |   Text Only Site   |   Accessibility
Oregon DMV
ODOT Banner

Dealer Complaints
Be sure to determine whether your complaint can be handled by DMV Business Regulation or should be referred to another agency. For example, many complaints should be addressed to the Department of Justice (DOJ) rather than DMV. If your complaint can be handled by DMV, please follow the process outlined below.
How to File
  1. Complete the Request for Investigation form (be sure to sign and date the form). You can also receive the form by calling DMV at (503) 945-5000 or (503) 299-9999 (Portland Metro) or you can pick up the form at any DMV Office
  2. Attach a legible copy of any papers you have (e.g.; contract, purchase order, receipts or canceled checks)
  3. Mail the signed form with a legible copy of any relevant papers to:
Business Regulation Program
1905 Lana Ave NE
Salem, OR 97314
If you have any questions, please contact DMV Business Regulation.
 
NOTE: A DMV Investigator cannot act as an attorney or give you legal advice. You may wish to consult with a private attorney to determine your rights and remedies.
After Filing
When a complaint is filed you will receive a letter indicating the investigator to whom the complaint has been assigned. If you have additional information to provide, or have questions about the investigation, please call the individual investigator to whom the case was assigned.
Complaints NOT Handled by DMV
Common complaints DMV does NOT handle:
  • I bought a car from a dealer and it will not pass DEQ.
  • I bought a car from a dealer and there are various mechanical problems with it.
  • I purchased a car from a dealer and I found out later it has been totaled and reconstructed. The dealer will not give me my money back.
  • I purchased a vehicle from a dealer and I think the dealer lied to me about the mileage or have reason to believe that the mileage was misstated or rolled back.
  • I purchased a vehicle from a dealer and he is refusing to honor the warranty.
  • The dealer stated that I should take the car to my mechanic prior to buying the vehicle. I do not wish to purchase the vehicle but the dealer will not refund my deposit.
  • The dealer wants me to sign a new contract because the original financing did not go through.
  • I changed my mind about the vehicle purchase. Is there a "cooling off" period?
 
DMV Business Regulation does not handle these types of problems. Contact the DOJ for assistance with these complaints. Their phone number is (503) 378-4320 or (503) 229-5576 (Portland Metro area) or you can access the Oregon Department of Justice Financial Fraud Page. You may want to seek legal counsel for advice on your legal rights and remedies.

Auto Safety Complaints
Contact the Department of Transportation Auto Safety Hotline to:
  • Report vehicle and vehicle equipment safety defects
  • Find information on air bags and child safety seats
  • See a list of vehicle recalls
  • Find out about highway traffic safety information
 
Page updated: June 07, 2007

Text Only | State Directories | Agencies A to Z | Site Map | About Oregon.gov | Oregon.gov|
File Formats | Oregon Administrative Rules | Oregon Revised Statutes | Privacy Policy | Web Site Feedback|

Get Adobe Acrobat ReaderAdobe Reader is required to view PDF files. Click the "Get Adobe Reader" image to get a free download of the reader from Adobe.