On 1 Apr 2006 11:53:45 -0800, curious314159@yahoo.com wrote:

>
>I just bought a brand new 06 Civic. When I took
>the car home I noticed a slight warping on the right
>side panel where bumper meets the body.
>
>I contacted the dealer and sent him photos the
>next morning. He called and said he checked his
>computer records and didn't find any indication of a possible lot
>damage/repairs.
>
>I replied, in writing, acknowledging his not finding
>any repair records prior to sale and that we were worried
>about safety features working properly and would
>always like to be informed of possible prior damage/repairs.
>
>The next morning, I got a call, that he had checked
>again -- this time with the "service" department and
>had INDEED found that there was lot repair/damage
>that involved replacing the bumper and a paint job
>and he was going to find out more about when at work.
>
>So at the end, we were sold a NEW car, that was damaged
>and repaired (with visible signs remaining) prior to sale and
>we were not disclosed this info until later. I would NEVER
>have bought this car had I known about this possibility.
>
>What are my rights as a consumer here? Repair is not an
>option for us since we bought a new car just so we can
>have a car we were sure had no prior damage! Can this be
>sufficient grounds for demanding an exchange (I only
>had the car for 2 days). The evidence is there, and acknowledged
>by the dealer. I know Honda is very meticulous about
>dealers delivering cars in good shape. Would I be better
>off going through Honda and not the dealer? We are at a
>loss as to what to do now. Any advice would be greatly
>appreciated!
>
>Ben

I recall a few years back (maybe 20) that BMW and/or another
manufacturer got in trouble for selling damaged cars as new with no
disclosure. I think you have a strong hand in getting a replacement
car. You should document all this in writing with the dealer and then
with honda if you get resistance.