Iconic Kars4Kids Jingle Banned In California

The catchy “1-877-Kars-4-Kids” jingle is now barred from broadcast in California unless the ads include prominent disclosures, after a judge ruled the charity’s advertising campaign violated state false advertising and unfair competition laws.

Orange County Superior Court Judge Gassia Apkarian issued the order last week in a lawsuit brought by California resident Bruce Puterbaugh. He donated a 2001 Volvo after repeated exposure to the ads but later felt misled about where the money went.

The court found that Kars4Kids commercials created the misleading impression that car donations primarily helped needy or disadvantaged children in California. In reality, 60% of the proceeds support Oorah, an organization that funds Orthodox Jewish programs in New York, New Jersey, and the Middle East.

“The evidence also shows that children, especially needy or underprivileged children, are not the recipients of the proceeds of the donations,” Apkarian wrote. Oorah’s programs include matchmaking services for young adults and gap-year trips for 17- and 18-year-olds.

Court-Ordered Requirements:  Under the ruling, any future Kars4Kids ads airing in California must clearly and audibly disclose:

• The organization’s religious affiliation
• The primary geographic location of beneficiaries
• The age range of those who benefit

The group is also prohibited from using images of prepubescent children to solicit donations that ultimately support adults.

Kars4Kids said it will appeal the decision.