Matthew Wernz – Regional Director of the Southwest Region– FTC

Matthew Wernz, Regional Director of the Southwest Region of the FTC, will discuss consumer protection obligations that apply to motor vehicle dealers under existing law. Matt will begin with an update on the status of the Combating Auto Retail Scams, or CARS, Rule, which the Commission released in December 2023 but has been enjoined by a federal court. Matt will then cover core consumer protection concepts—such as securing consumers’ express, informed consent before charging for optional products and avoiding deceptive or misleading advertising—and how they have applied in recent auto-related enforcement actions. He will also provide a refresher on the FTC’s Used Car Rule, including key requirements for the Buyers Guide and dealer responsibilities in used vehicle transactions.