State attorneys are squeezing a U.S. automaker to compensate a Draper man who apparently go a real lemon.
The Division of Consumer Protection filed a civil complaint in 3rd District Court this week against General Motors Corp. on behalf of Joseph M. Wright, whose 1991 Chevrolet Astro Van has given him nothing but trouble.Wright bought the van new from Riverton Motor C. in August 1991 for $26,000 . The van soon developed numerous problems, including transmission problems "which impaired the use, market value and safety of the vehicle," according to the complaint.
During the next seven months, Wright returned the vehicle five times for repair to Riverton Motor, which replaced the transmission in March 1992.
The problems continued, requiring additional visits to Riverton Motor, which has been unable to repair the defects, the complaint states.
Under Utah's "lemon law," the state is asking the court to require GN to replace the vehicle or to refund to Wright the full purchase price of the van, less a reasonable allowance for his use of the vehicle. The complaint also seeks damages, finances charges and interest paid by Wright.
Consumer Protection director Francine Giani said here office files tow or three lawsuits a year against auto manufacturers. The suits are usually settled before trial.