A Texas resident has filed a lawsuit against a New Jersey-based used car dealership, alleging deceptive practices and fraud in the sale of a motorhome. On November 24, 2025, Jere Gengenbach filed the complaint in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas against Michael’s Motorcars, Inc., claiming that the dealership misrepresented the condition of a vehicle sold to him through an online auction site.
According to the complaint, Gengenbach was enticed by the representations made by Michael’s Motorcars about a 2006 Pleasure Way Excel TS Motorhome listed on bringatrailer.com. The defendant allegedly described the vehicle as being stored in a climate-controlled garage and in immaculate condition. However, upon delivery to Texas, Gengenbach discovered numerous undisclosed issues including water damage, non-functional systems, and evidence of rodent infestation. He claims these conditions were actively misrepresented or omitted by Michael’s Motorcars during the sale process.
Gengenbach accuses Michael’s Motorcars of violating several provisions of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices – Consumer Protection Act (DTPA), including making false statements about the vehicle’s condition and failing to disclose critical information that would have influenced his purchasing decision. The complaint further alleges common law fraud, fraudulent inducement, and negligent misrepresentation by the dealership. These accusations are supported by detailed accounts of communications between Gengenbach and Michael’s Motorcars where misleading information was allegedly provided.
The plaintiff is seeking significant damages from Michael’s Motorcars. He requests three times his actual damages amounting to $142,332 due to what he claims were knowing violations of consumer protection laws. Additionally, he seeks exemplary damages totaling $10,000 for fraud and fraudulent inducement and another $15,000 for mental anguish caused by these actions. Gengenbach also demands compensation for attorney fees and court costs incurred due to this legal action.
Representing Jere Gengenbach are attorneys Mark E. Smith and Kelly G. Combs from Austin-based law firm Bickel & Brewer Law Firm LLP. The case has been assigned Case ID 4:25-cv-05662 under Judge [Name not provided]. As this legal battle unfolds in federal court, it highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and honesty in online vehicle sales.
Source: 425cv05662_Jere_Gengenbach_v_Michaels_Motorcars_Complaint_Southern_District_of_Texas.pdf
