Tips on Buying Cars: Used car purchase, body shop departments, carfax report

Question
We purchased a used car this past Saturday, 12/12/09, but have not taken posssesion as of today, 12/14/09.  The seller (local used car dealer) is cleaning the car and looking for a rim to match the other three.

Before paying cash for the vehicle, I asked for the VIN# to run a carfax report.  He did not give me the number and said carfax isn't always accurate.

We decided to pay cash for the vehicle on Saturday.  However, since then, we've learned from a carfax report (received VIN was on Buyer's Order) that the vehicle was in an accident.  

I contacted the dealer stated on the report and have found out the vehicle had major damage to the suspension, which was repaired.  I spoke to the service and body shop departments.  This vehicle has had major repairs, which are being faxed to us from the dealership.

I called an attorney.  He suggested writing a letter, attach repair documentation, and request our money back.

I've been reading on-line about "cooling off" period, but nothing specific about getting my money back.

I called the seller this morning to check status of cleaning the vehicle and rim, which he is in the process of doing.  

I also asked him: "So this vehicle hasn't been in any accidents?"  He comment was "none that I know of".

Can we get our money back since we've not taken possesion of the vehicle and he did not disclose factual information about the vehicle?

This car was going to be my daughter's firt vehicle.  Needless to say, not such a good scenario at the moment.

Please advise.

Thanks.


Answer
K,thanks for your concerns.First talk to a manager of the history of this car.Second,the car is not delivered until you drive the car off the lot.If this dealer is honest in doing business,they should help you.A carfax is a important buyer's tool.If you request one,and the seller denies to show the history,DO NOT BUY the car.The information contains honest,and perhaps anything you want to know about the car.(except private info, i.e.name of the original owner)And one more thing never give money until this information is given to you,this way buying a car can be a good experience,not grief.Good luck!