Secretary of State Ruth Johnson announced today that she has suspended the license of Flint used-vehicle dealer Miller Used Cars, 5518 N. Saginaw St., after an investigation with area law enforcement found multiple violations including the alleged illegal sale of temporary vehicle registrations.

The investigation began after the Michigan State Police informed the Secretary of State’s Office of numerous traffic stops involving vehicles displaying temporary registrations, often called paper plates, allegedly issued by the dealership. The drivers of the vehicles each provided statements indicating the temporary registrations had been purchased illegally and were also unable to provide sufficient vehicle purchase documentation. 

Secretary of State investigators conducted an inspection of Miller Used Cars, with assistance from the Genesee Area Investigations Network (GAIN). Upon inspection, investigators found that dealership staff could not provide requested records, could only account for 7 of 385 temporary registrations purchased, and could not account for more than 60 vehicles, even though they had the vehicle titles in possession. Laws requiring detailed recordkeeping protect against the sale of stolen vehicles and parts, and ensure the vehicle buyer receives a clear and valid title to prove ownership.

“We take our responsibility to safeguard consumers from unscrupulous auto dealers seriously,” Johnson said. “The vast majority of auto dealers are reputable business people who follow the rules, but if we determine a dealer is operating outside the law, we will take swift action.”

As part of her focus on strengthening her office’s consumer protection efforts, Johnson created the Office of Investigative Services, which investigates and inspects automotive-related businesses.

Dealers may request an administrative hearing to contest their suspension and may regain their license if they show they’ve complied with the law. Additional administrative actions are also possible.

Consumers who have a complaint against Miller Used Cars are encouraged to call the Office of Investigative Services automotive complaint line at (517) 335-1410.