Keystone Today

Attorney General Josh Shapiro announced that a $1 million multi-state settlement has been reached with CarMax Auto Superstores, with stipulations that the company needs to disclose open recalls to consumers.

According to a release by Shapiro’s office on December 1, the settlement followed an investigation by a total of 36 Attorney Generals. It was described as an "industry changing settlement."

“In Pennsylvania, demand for used cars remains high,” said Shapiro. “Consumers deserve to have all the relevant information about a car so they can make an informed choice whether or not to buy, especially if there are open and unrepaired recalls. This settlement will ensure dealerships like CarMax shift gears to ensure Pennsylvanians’ safety comes before profits.”

CarMax will continue to use vehicle identification numbers (VIN) for safety information and the company will also need to include hyperlinks for vehicles advertised online, and QR codes for those with open recalls. The company needs to also provide copies of open recalls, as well as take a potential buyer’s signature for a standalone disclosure document. Also, the company will no longer be able to describe a vehicle as “safe.”

Complaints can be filed through the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General Bureau of Consumer Protection on the AG website, emails through scams@attorneygeneral.gov or by phone at 1-800-441-2555.