Members of the New Jersey Auto Owners Association (NJAOA) have staged vocal protests almost daily since early April outside Ultimate Car Care and properties linked to Samuel Polyak of Polykup Inc. and David Gutwill in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. The sustained campaign, continuing into late May, began with demands for the return of a prized classic car owned by 90-year-old stroke survivor Robert Kerekes. It has since broadened into accusations of elder financial exploitation, missing valuable original parts, and unsafe electric vehicle conversion practices.
Demonstrators regularly display pointed signage, including banners reading “Ultimate Car Care is Holding a 90 Year Old’s Car for Ransom” (with a cartoon illustration of an elderly man with a cane), “CHEATING a 90 Year Old? DOWNRIGHT EVIL!!!!”, “Junkyard Flammable Chevy Bolt Batteries in a $300K Car? THAT’S FRAUD”, and “Where are the stolen parts Sam and Dave?” Protesters have also chanted slogans such as “Scammed an old man, shame on Sam,” drawing public attention to the dispute.
The legal matter, filed as Kerekes v. Polyak (Docket No. MRS L 000015-26) in Morris County Superior Court under Civil Presiding Judge Frank DeAngelis, centers on a premium Tesla battery EV conversion project for Kerekes’ 2003 Acura NSX. Court filings allege the use of salvaged Chevrolet Bolt batteries with known fire risks, significant cost overruns, and the removal of high-value factory-original components—including the engine and transmission—that were never returned.
A writ of replevin issued in mid-April ordered the return of the vehicle along with all keys, remotes, and removed parts. Although the car was eventually returned, it was allegedly delivered in damaged condition and stripped of its most valuable original equipment, according to filings including an amicus curiae brief from the Elder Help Network .
Advocates argue this situation goes beyond a contractual disagreement and may constitute elder financial exploitation under New Jersey law. They emphasize the need for stronger court intervention, full accounting of all parts, restitution, and greater protections for vulnerable seniors engaging in specialty automotive work. Kerekes, a well-known New Jersey collector whose vehicles have been showcased at events like the New York International Auto Show, is seen as emblematic of risks faced by older consumers.
Widespread Media Coverage and Continued Momentum
The controversy has generated substantial coverage across local news, auto forums, Reddit, YouTube, and national outlets. Reports have also highlighted prior legal issues involving one of the parties, intensifying public scrutiny.
NJAOA and supporting groups continue their almost daily protests to keep pressure on the defendants and demand transparency, the return of missing components, and accountability. As the case moves forward in court, the demonstrations underscore broader concerns about consumer protection, the challenges of EV conversions on classic cars, and safeguards for elder citizens. For more information on elder advocacy efforts, visit ElderHelpNetwork.com.
