Dealer Refuses Keys to Block Test Drive; Mechanic Exposes Major Dodge Challenger Flaw

A buyer from Texas flew specifically to New Jersey to purchase a Dodge Challenger from Toyota Universe dealership and hired TRP Mobile, a mobile inspection service, to conduct a pre-purchase inspection. However, dealership staff repeatedly refused to hand over the car keys, claiming they “couldn’t find them.” After persistent requests, the technician finally obtained the keys an hour later and completed a test drive—only to discover that the vehicle could not shift into reverse gear, a major issue the dealership had apparently tried to conceal. TRP Mobile emphasized that pre-purchase inspections are crucial for identifying hidden defects, ensuring safety, and aiding in price negotiations. Consumers have the right to hire an independent mechanic for such inspections, which typically cost between $100 and $300. The dealership has not yet responded to the incident.