The Court of Appeals of Puerto Rico recently ruled in favor of Edgar Antonio Acevedo Delgado against Roberto Quiles and Quiles Auto Sales in a consumer protection case. The court upheld a prior decision by the Department of Consumer Affairs (DACo) that found Quiles Auto Sales liable for selling a defective vehicle without proper inspection and warranty. This ruling is significant as it reinforces consumer rights in vehicle sales and highlights the responsibilities of auto dealers in Puerto Rico.
The case, filed under docket number TA2026RA00159, began when Acevedo Delgado filed a complaint with DACo on September 12, 2025. He alleged that after purchasing a Ford F-150 truck on August 14, 2025, he experienced numerous mechanical issues that rendered the vehicle unusable. Acevedo claimed he was not informed that the vehicle lacked a warranty and that it had to be inspected before sale. He sought a refund of the $20,000 he paid for the vehicle.
The DACo held a hearing on December 3, 2025, where evidence was presented. On February 12, 2026, DACo ruled in favor of Acevedo, ordering Quiles Auto Sales to refund the purchase price and return the vehicle. The ruling indicated that the dealership violated regulations by not inspecting the vehicle before sale, which is required by Puerto Rican law.
Following the DACo's decision, Quiles Auto Sales filed a request for judicial review on April 4, 2026. The dealership argued that the DACo had made errors in its findings, including claims that the vehicle did not have a warranty and that it was improperly assessed for defects. Specifically, they contested the claim that the vehicle had to be inspected before sale, stating that it exceeded the mileage limit for warranty coverage.
On May 12, 2026, the Court of Appeals, led by Judge Lebrón Nieves, ruled against Quiles Auto Sales. The court confirmed DACo's findings and emphasized that the dealership had a responsibility to ensure the vehicle was safe and compliant with legal standards before selling it. The court stated, "The Querellado [Quiles Auto Sales] acted irresponsibly and in clear violation of the Motor Vehicle Guarantees Regulation and the Traffic Law of Puerto Rico." This ruling reinforces the importance of consumer protection laws and the obligations of auto dealers in Puerto Rico.
The court's ruling not only upheld the DACo's decision but also highlighted the serious implications of failing to comply with vehicle inspection laws. The court noted that allowing a vehicle to be sold without proper inspection could lead to dangerous situations on the road, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to consumer protection regulations.
This decision is expected to have a lasting impact on the auto sales industry in Puerto Rico. It serves as a reminder to dealerships that they must comply with all legal requirements regarding vehicle sales, including inspections and warranties. Consumers can feel more empowered knowing that they have legal recourse if they encounter issues with vehicle purchases.
Looking ahead, Quiles Auto Sales may consider appealing the decision, although details regarding any potential appeal were not available in the court filing. The ruling sets a precedent for future cases involving consumer rights and vehicle sales in Puerto Rico, reinforcing the importance of transparency and accountability in the auto sales industry.
In summary, the Court of Appeals of Puerto Rico's ruling in favor of Edgar Antonio Acevedo Delgado against Quiles Auto Sales underscores the importance of consumer protection laws. It confirms that auto dealers must adhere to strict regulations regarding the sale of vehicles, ensuring that consumers are informed and protected from potential defects and safety issues. This case serves as a significant reminder of the rights of consumers in Puerto Rico and the responsibilities of businesses in the marketplace.