Rejection of Defective Goods and Retailer Liability Under Sale of Goods Legislation

In March 2024, a mechanic operating a vehicle repair shop in Lacombe, Alberta, purchased a $4,200 hydraulic lift from a British Columbia retailer through email and telephone exchanges. After paying a $1,500 deposit and the $2,700 balance, the equipment arrived with persistent defects: leaking hose fittings, a major leak between the reservoir and pump, and ultimately a failure at the pump itself.

Each time the mechanic reported problems, the retailer directed him to the manufacturer for warranty repairs. Despite receiving replacement parts and a rebuild kit, the defects continued. The mechanic rejected the lift, citing safety concerns and demanding a full refund. The manufacturer authorized the refund, but the retailer now insists the mechanic must pay $380 in return shipping costs before any refund issues.

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