Originally Posted by Zaggeron

It hasn't actually gone to collection yet, his conversation was with the dealer's collection department, but I agree in general.

OP, if you were talking to the GM on the phone, it sounds like they are a lousy dealership. Did he offer up any proof you owe the money? On the face of it, as others have suggested, the fact that you have the car, financing, and an executed contract that shows you paid a $1000 down payment puts the burden of proof on the dealership to show that some portion of the contract that you were responsible for was not satisfied -- Do they have a signed promissory note for the $1000 dollars that you have no proof was paid?

Originally Posted by Kyle@STILLEN

You might still want to go down with the contract showing a $1,000.00 cash deposit was made and explain that, that is your receipt.

Also, call me paranoid, I wouldn't drive down there in your Z. Have a friend or family member give you a ride...