Bought car from online MN dealership in Nov 2018, no tabs yet (sales, transfer)

[jeWilc]

When I didn't get the title from the licensed online car dealership by the end of the 2nd month after purchase, and the online auction dealership wouldn't answer calls or emails, I contacted the MN DMV, they said they had just received the title paperwork the week prior, and I would be receiving it as soon as it was processed. That took another 2 months, and when the title finally came, there were no tabs with it. I again contacted the State DMV, they said their records showed that the registration was paid by the dealership at the time the title transfer was received, and I should contact them or go to my local DMV office and apply and pay for duplicate tabs. At the time of purchase, I paid to the dealership, the purchase price, a 13% buyers fee, 6.5% MN Vehicle Sales Tax, $55 registration fee, $59 document fee and $37.75 title transfer fee. As I expected, the guy still won't answer calls, voice messages or emails. Does MN allow for a process of complaint against dealerships that do this? I've hunted the internet and found nothing for MN other than the Used Car Lemon Law or laws against misrepresentation of a vehicle. I've seen info for other states on how to report a dealership that doesn't give buyer the paperwork necessary to transfer title and/or lawfully operate the vehicle, but have found nothing similar for MN. Does anyone know if there is a recourse other than just having to pay for registration/tabs again? If he won't send the tabs, can I force him to refund the $55 I paid to register the vehicle or file a complaint with the State if he doesn't do one or the other? I've had this car for 4 1/2 months now and STILL can't drive it! It's gone beyond frustrating...

[Glenfield]

I’d pay for the duplicate tabs and call it a day.

[jeWilc]

"Glenfield"
Yup, that's what we did. I hate letting people get away with dishonest dealing, but sometimes the hassle/stress of taking them to task isn't worth it, and letting go is the best option at the time. That's what happened this time. We will never buy another vehicle from this outfit, and we pass our experience along whenever it fits. Small satisfaction, but you take what you can.