Consumer Complaints
It is unfortunate when it happens, but there are times when a consumer must file a complaint against a Virginia Motor Vehicle Dealer. We are here to help you through that.
01
Types of Complaints
Not all complaints fall under the jurisdiction of the Motor Vehicle Dealer Board.
The MVDB Consumer Assistance Analysts facilitate communication between consumers and dealerships.
- Dealers who have gone out of business
- Title and registration concerns
- State Inspection issues
- Business practices involving dealers or salespersons
While we aim to assist every consumer, please be aware that certain matters fall outside of the Motor Vehicle Dealer Board’s authority. Specifically, the MVDB does not handle monetary or civil disputes, such as:
- Contract disagreements
- Concerns about repair quality
- Warranty-related issues
For more complex complaints within our jurisdiction, an MVDB Analyst may request additional documentation or details to determine whether a violation has occurred. When necessary, the MVDB may also take the following actions:
- Field Investigations: A field investigator may visit the dealership to evaluate the situation.
- Formal Correspondence: The MVDB may issue formal notices to the dealership regarding potential violations or civil penalties.
- Agency Referrals: If your concern falls outside our legal authority, we will direct you to the appropriate state agency.
NOTE: MVDB cannot and will not provide legal advice.
02
How To File A Complaint
You can file a complaint with the Motor Vehicle Dealer Board by:
- Completing the Online Request for Consumer Assistance Form
- Emailing the MVDB at dboardcomplaints@mvdb.virginia.gov
- Calling the MVDB Consumer Assistance Analysts at (804) 367-1100, Option # 2
- Faxing a written request and supporting documentation to (804) 367-1053
- Mailing a written request and supporting documentation to our office at:
2201 West Broad Street, Suite 104
Richmond, VA 23220
We will respond to your request for assistance within 30 business days. Please keep in mind that some types of complaints do not fall within our jurisdiction. However, we make every effort to assist when possible. This may include directing you to other state agencies or organizations that may be able to address your specific situation. For example, the Dealer Board does not have jurisdiction over any type of monetary disputes, such as contract, repair, or warranty issues; these are civil issues. Below are links to other Virginia Agencies that may be of help in this regard. By providing this information the Motor Vehicle Dealer Board is not advocating or directing the suit of any specific individual.