[RWebb]

You need to see a lawyer nearby. Find one that specializes in car sales - if you can. There will surely be someone in NoLa if not on the Miss. Gulf Coast.

The lawyer might cost you $9k or more, but might cost a lot less to get a refund. A letter saying he is about to file suit might do it. Also, if yo win, they will probably have to pay his fees.

Here are 2 important things:

First, if the car was not in MS then there is a choice of law issue. If it was in Calif. there are highly likely to be more consumer protections there than in MS. IF so, you'll want a firm with a Calif. office or a Calif. attorney most likely.

Second - The ad specifically states: "It is in good mechanical shape..." That conflicts with the "as-is" language. And it gives you a pretty good case. Conflicting language in as contract (which this is) will nearly also be held against the person who drew up the contract. It will usually be held in favor of a consumer also. State laws differ however. That is why you need to consult with a pro.

Saying there are non-lawyers who know more about legal issues than _any_ lawyer is like telling you to forget about your surgeon and to visit a shaman.

Look around and find yourself the right lawyer for this job.