How to Sue a Car Dealer for Fraud in Florida

Car dealer fraud in Florida is covered by some of the strongest consumer protection laws in the country. Here's what statute applies, what damages you can recover, and how to file.

Quick Reference

Primary StatuteFlorida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA) §501.201

Statute of Limitations4 years from discovery

Treble Damages?No — but punitive damages possible for fraud

Attorney Fees Recoverable?Yes — recoverable for prevailing party

Governing Law

Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA) §501.201

FDUTPA prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in commerce. Strong consumer protection statute that covers auto dealer fraud.

Common Types of Dealer Fraud

Undisclosed damage history
Odometer fraud
Title washing (flood/salvage)
Misrepresented financing
False warranty claims
Bait-and-switch advertising
Hidden liens

Damages You Can Recover

Actual damages + restitution

Florida FDUTPA allows recovery of actual damages and restitution. Florida courts have strong consumer-protection case law.

Treble (3x) Damages

No — but punitive damages possible for fraud

FDUTPA itself doesn't allow treble damages, but separate fraud claims can include punitive damages. Some federal claims (Magnuson-Moss Warranty) allow attorney fees + damages.

Attorney Fees

Yes — recoverable for prevailing party

FDUTPA §501.2105 allows the prevailing party to recover attorney fees. The defending dealer also can recover if they win — slight risk balance.

Time Limits to File

4 years from discovery

Florida FDUTPA gives 4 years from when you discovered (or should have discovered) the deception.

How to File

Florida AG complaint + civil court

File with Florida Attorney General Consumer Protection Division (myfloridalegal.com) or DHSMV Auto Dealer Complaint. Then civil court for damages.

Florida Standout Resource

Florida's Lemon Law Arbitration is free and binding-on-manufacturer. Use it BEFORE filing FDUTPA — many issues resolve through Lemon Law arbitration without litigation costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What law covers car dealer fraud in Florida?

Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA) §501.201. FDUTPA prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in commerce. Strong consumer protection statute that covers auto dealer fraud.

How long do I have to sue a dealer for fraud in Florida?

4 years from discovery. Florida FDUTPA gives 4 years from when you discovered (or should have discovered) the deception.

Can I get treble (3x) damages for car dealer fraud in Florida?

No — but punitive damages possible for fraud. FDUTPA itself doesn't allow treble damages, but separate fraud claims can include punitive damages. Some federal claims (Magnuson-Moss Warranty) allow attorney fees + damages.

Will I get attorney fees if I win a car fraud case in Florida?

Yes — recoverable for prevailing party. FDUTPA §501.2105 allows the prevailing party to recover attorney fees. The defending dealer also can recover if they win — slight risk balance.

Where do I file a car dealer fraud complaint in Florida?

Florida AG complaint + civil court. File with Florida Attorney General Consumer Protection Division (myfloridalegal.com) or DHSMV Auto Dealer Complaint. Then civil court for damages.

Protect Yourself Going Forward

Future purchases? A Florida-compliant bill of sale with full disclosures is your best protection against post-sale disputes.

Generate Bill of Sale

This page is informational only and not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a Florida consumer protection attorney. Source: Florida Attorney General — Consumer Protection.