A Puerto Rico court has upheld a ruling that requires Imperio Auto Corp. to refund $10,000 to Edwin Santini Aponte due to undisclosed defects in a vehicle he purchased. The Court of Appeals of Puerto Rico issued its decision on May 19, 2026, confirming the earlier ruling from the Department of Consumer Affairs (DACo). This case highlights the importance of consumer protection laws in the automotive industry.
Edwin Santini Aponte, an 82-year-old retiree, filed a complaint against Imperio Auto after discovering serious issues with a used Volkswagen Passat he bought from the dealership. The ruling impacts not only Santini Aponte but also sets a precedent for consumer rights in Puerto Rico, especially regarding the sale of used vehicles.
The dispute began when Santini Aponte purchased the vehicle on August 2, 2025. He later found that the car had significant mechanical problems, including issues with the anti-lock braking system. After taking the car to a mechanic, he was informed that repairs would cost nearly $5,000. Santini Aponte claimed that the dealership misrepresented the vehicle's condition and did not provide any warranty or documentation at the time of sale.
After filing a complaint with DACo, a hearing was scheduled for December 4, 2025. However, Imperio Auto failed to attend the hearing, claiming they did not receive proper notification. DACo ruled in favor of Santini Aponte, stating that the dealership had not justified its absence and ordered them to refund the purchase price along with additional compensation for emotional distress.
In its ruling, the court stated, "The evidence reveals that the sold vehicle did not have the promised qualities and that the defects found diminished its suitability for the agreed use." The judges on the panel included President Judge Rivera Marchand, Judge Mateu Meléndez, Judge Boria Vizcarrondo, and Judge Robles Adorno.
The court confirmed DACo's decision, emphasizing that Imperio Auto had a reasonable opportunity to repair the vehicle's defects but failed to do so. The ruling also highlighted the importance of consumer protection laws in ensuring that buyers receive vehicles that meet the promised standards.
This ruling is significant for consumers in Puerto Rico, as it reinforces the legal protections available to them when purchasing used vehicles. It underscores the responsibility of dealerships to provide accurate information about the condition of the vehicles they sell and to honor any warranties or guarantees.
Moving forward, this case may influence how dealerships operate in Puerto Rico, particularly regarding the sale of used vehicles. It serves as a reminder that consumers have rights and can seek legal recourse when those rights are violated.
As for the possibility of an appeal, Imperio Auto may seek further review of the decision, but details regarding any such plans were not available in the court filing. There are no related cases pending at this time.