What Others Say
I am leaving this review to warn other consumers about my recent experience with Victory Auto Mall. What I went through was a textbook yo-yo scam — an illegal and deceptive tactic where a dealer lets you drive away with a vehicle after signing a valid, fully executed contract, only to later claim financing “fell through” and demand new terms or repossess the vehicle.
Here is what happened and the legal boundaries they crossed:
• Executed Retail Installment Contract (RISC): I signed a binding RISC contract, which under Florida Statute § 520.07 and federal Truth in Lending Act (TILA, 15 U.S.C. § 1601 et seq.), makes the deal final. There were no checked boxes or signed “conditional delivery” agreements. Once signed, the dealer had no legal authority to change terms, demand additional documents, or repossess the truck.
• Breach of Contract & Unfair Trade Practices: By seizing the truck after a final contract, the dealership violated Florida’s Unfair & Deceptive Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA, Fla. Stat. § 501.201 et seq.), which prohibits misrepresentation, deception, and unfair methods of competition.
• Illegal Repossession: The truck was repossessed while I was not in default. Under UCC Article 9 (Fla. Stat. § 679.609), a creditor can only repossess collateral after a borrower defaults. I had not missed a payment, and my first due date had not even arrived. This constitutes an unlawful conversion of property.
• Failure to Provide Disclosures: Federal law (TILA and Regulation Z, 12 C.F.R. § 1026) requires accurate and truthful disclosure of all financing terms. By attempting to alter or rescind the executed contract, the dealership failed its disclosure obligations.
• Potential Conspiracy with Finance Company: The actions involving the finance company that raise red flags of collusion. If they knowingly participated in the yo-yo scheme, this could violate Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act § 5, which prohibits unfair and deceptive acts.
• Harm to Consumer: I suffered financial and emotional harm — loss of transportation, out-of-pocket expenses for insurance and down payment, and reputational harm with my credit profile.
⚖️ Consumers should be aware: Once you sign a Retail Installment Contract in Florida, the deal is binding unless you cancel it. The dealer cannot unilaterally change terms or take the vehicle back unless you default.
This dealership ignored the law, violated my rights, and carried out a yo-yo scam. I will be pursuing legal remedies and reporting these violations to the Florida Attorney General, the FTC, and the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
I urge all consumers: avoid this dealership at all costs.
I just purchased my third used car from Victory Auto Mall. My college-aged daughter accompanied me this time. She needed a safe and more reliable vehicle. The experience of purchasing a used KIA at Victory Auto Mall was truly reflective of its expressed objectives.
Casey, a young, respectful and pleasant individual greeted us, demonstrating "people skills" which far exceeded so many. After vehicle options were explored and decisions made, the next person was Mohammed (aka: "Mo") who is the "finance guy." This is where challenges are typically revealed. "Mo" expertly researched every possible approach and, with my daughter present, patiently explained the dynamics of financial options and solutions. As a father himself, he understood and we concurred this was a "life skill" experience for her. "Mo's" extremely positive approach toward customer service was exemplary. Once a viable and mutually beneficial financial solution was achieved, there was "Joe." His role was to finalize the required registration and financial documents. He was meticulous and patient in clarifying any aspect. I was humbled and impressed he remembered our previous transactions which date back over several years.
Finally, a special "salute" to "Radamas;" Service Department. His diligence ensured timely agreed upon adjustments were made. When my daughter received the keys, the vehicle was at its optimum of cleanliness, safety and security. It was a used car but "tip-top;" front to end.
Victory Auto Mall does not meet the generally-held (cautious) expectation of a used car lot. It is atypical. From my experiences, Victory Mall has proven to offer reliable and affordable choices in a friendly and personable manner. I've read some of the long-time reviews. Perhaps a challenge is that some who visited wanted French champagne while on a "Kool-Aid" budget. Attitude, behavior and realism as to one's financial capabilities coupled with direct and honest dialogue go a long way. It did for me.
For my part, I walked away with a sense of "victory" for the purchase of a safe, affordable and reliable car for my daughter while the transaction and experience established new acquaintances and reinforced my impression that the folks at Victory Auto Mall are genuine people who mean what they say about being a "leader" in automotive services.
I had my loan closed and transaction cancelled and the owner Thalem Abu Oleim stole my $4,000 down payment and has yet to refund me back. Please reach out to me for a class action suit that will be filed through small claims court with my attorney and we will also expose his unethocal business practice that has been going on sonce 2017. Reach out to me if you have also had your money stolen and been wronged by this man. If you have heard " no return policy" reach out to me so we can include you in the filing.
I was there for hours....after all was done, I was sold a truck that needed an immediate repair. The timing chain needa replacing. The new "balanced" tires are bouncing all over the place. Supposedly they were "balanced" a second time. No change. Will update review with final cost once repairs are completed by mechanic.
These are scam artists.. They will add GAP Insurance so they can keep your money. DONT BUY ANYTHING FROM THEM!!! CROOKS!!!!!!! The staff is a revolving door...
My mom and I were looking for a new car for me and found it here with wonderful service, friendly service and great price. Would definitely recommend.