2 Rhode Island Car Dealerships Accused Of Deceptive Pricing

PROVIDENCE, RI — Two car dealerships are facing lawsuits from the Rhode Island Attorney General over accusations of unfair pricing and violations of consumer protections. Grieco Honda and Grieco Toyota are accused of refusing to honor advertised prices on vehicles.

"Purchasing a car is always a challenging experience, and that is particularly true in today’s market, where the availability of new and used cars alike is at one of the lowest points in our nation’s history," Neronha said. "Accordingly, it is now more important than ever that car dealers treat Rhode Islanders fairly and refrain from advertisement and selling practices designed to confuse and mislead them. As alleged in the Superior Court complaints filed by my Office, these two dealerships have done exactly that."

According to the AG's office, the dealerships reportedly advertised prices for vehicles, then charged "addendum fees" as high as $5,000 on top. Grieco Toyota is also accused of advertising "wholesale prices," telling buyers they would "pay what we pay going to auction."

The attorney general's lawsuit seeks to bar the dealerships from engaging in deceptive pricing practices going forward, seek restitution for buyers hurt by the practices and fine the dealerships for violating the state's Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

"This office will continue to act on behalf of Rhode Islander consumers whenever and wherever necessary to ensure that the bargaining process is fair and that the playing field is level," Neronha continued. "Most businesses in Rhode Island play by these basic rules. The comparatively few that don’t should know that this Office, now empowered by the 2021 changes we sought to the state’s consumer protection laws, is prepared to make sure they do."