Audi Anchorage Lawsuit: Alaska Attorney General Files Lawsuit Against Swickard Auto Group
Alaska Attorney General Files Lawsuit Against Swickard Auto Group
Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor has filed a lawsuit against Swickard Auto Group, alleging violations of consumer protection laws at the group’s dealerships in Anchorage and Palmer. The lawsuit comes after three customer complaints, which claim that Swickard Auto advertised cars it did not have and did not honor advertised prices and interest rates.
Responding to the lawsuit, Swickard Auto stated that it acknowledges the attorney general’s concerns and aims to provide clarification. The auto retailer emphasized that it serves approximately 50,000 customers in Alaska each year.
The 21-page complaint, filed in Anchorage Superior Court, states that the Alaska Department of Law’s Consumer Protection Unit received three complaints against Swickard Auto over a four-month period. The complaints alleged false advertising tactics, including advertising vehicles that the dealership did not possess, advertising unavailable interest rates, and failing to honor advertised prices.
The lawsuit seeks $25,000 for each violation of Alaska’s Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act, along with an injunction to prevent Swickard from engaging in deceptive practices.
Swickard Auto Group’s Response
Swickard Auto claimed that the genesis of the complaint lies in its decision to advertise in-transit vehicles and shared inventory. The dealership stated that it aimed to provide customers in Alaska with visibility of upcoming vehicles, but the attorney general’s office found it to be a frustrating experience and opened an official complaint for investigation.
Swickard Auto highlighted that out of the three complaints, two originated from the attorney general or affiliated employees regarding the purchase of their personal vehicles. The auto group also mentioned that the attorney general’s report raised concerns, but they believe the single complaint from a non-affiliated individual was addressed and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
Protecting Consumers and Ensuring Fair Practices
Attorney General Taylor emphasized that purchasing a car is already a stressful process and an important decision for consumers. The lawsuit is aimed at preventing car dealerships from engaging in illegal advertising and sales practices that make buying a car even more difficult for consumers. The attorney general’s office seeks to ensure fair competition and protect consumers from unscrupulous dealerships.
Swickard Auto, based in Las Vegas, is ranked No. 48 on Automotive News’ list of the top 150 U.S. dealership groups. The auto retailer owns dealerships across multiple states, including Alaska, and sells various brands such as Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Porsche.
