In the UK, dealers are legally obligated under the Consumer Rights Act to sell cars that are of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. They also have to disclose any known issues or defects with a vehicle. Unfortunately, not all dealers are reputable and you may be left dealing with a car that’s not up to standard. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to know your rights and how to proceed.
- If a dealer provides false information or misrepresents the car in any way, buyers have the right to reject a car and get a full refund within the first 30 days of purchase.
- If a fault is discovered after 30 days but within six months, the dealer has the opportunity to repair or replace the car.
- If this isn’t successful, the buyer can then ask for a reduction in the price or a full refund.
However, it’s important to note that ‘satisfactory quality’ is a somewhat subjective term and takes into account the car’s age and mileage. For example, a 10-year-old car with high mileage wouldn’t be held to the same standards as a nearly new vehicle.
Proving a car is not ‘satisfactory quality’
Proving that a used car has been sold below satisfactory quality in the UK can be challenging for several reasons. Firstly, the definition of ‘satisfactory quality’ can be somewhat subjective and varies depending on the car’s age, mileage, and price. Unlike new cars, used cars come with expected wear and tear, making it difficult to distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable conditions.
Additionally, without a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection, identifying underlying issues at the point of sale can be tough. The burden of proof often lies with the buyer, who must demonstrate that the fault existed at the time of purchase and was not a result of subsequent use or wear, which can be a complex and technical process requiring expert assessment.
If you find yourself proving a car was sold to you faulty or not as described then consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and the best course of action, especially if the seller disputes your claim.
Buying a used car from a dealer vs a private seller
Buying a used car from a dealer typically offers greater consumer protection than purchasing privately. As discussed, dealers are bound by the Consumer Rights Act 2015, and must ensure the car is of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. Additionally, they are obligated to address any issues within the first six months, assuming these were present at the point of sale. Many dealers also provide extra warranties for further security. However, it’s worth noting that while your rights are more robust when buying from a dealer, resolving disputes, should they arise, can be time-consuming and may need legal steps.
Buying a used car privately may be more financially appealing due to lower prices, but it comes with increased risks. In private sales, legal protection is significantly limited; cars are usually sold ‘as seen’, leaving you with fewer rights if issues arise post-purchase. The responsibility to thoroughly check the car’s condition before buying falls entirely on you. Additionally, private sales do not come with warranties or guarantees, and the Consumer Rights Act 2015 does not apply, meaning you have less recourse if you encounter problems with the vehicle.
Therefore, it’s always advisable to thoroughly check any car you’re considering buying, ask direct questions about its condition, and, if possible, get an independent inspection. This due diligence can help avoid disputes and ensure that you are fully informed about your purchase.
Buying from a reputable dealer
At Greenland Cars, we have a comprehensive list of checks we complete before buying a car to sell to our customers.
- Before acquiring a used car to sell, we thoroughly check the mechanical condition of the car, including the engine, transmission, and suspension.
- If any issues are identified during the inspection that are minor and do not affect the car’s performance, we carry out necessary repairs or maintenance. We’ll make sure the car is in a good, sellable condition. This might include routine services, fixing any mechanical faults, and addressing wear and tear issues.
- We have access to the vehicle’s history, such as service records, previous ownership, and accident history, either from the previous owner or through vehicle history report services. All of our cars come HPI checked as routine.
As an award-winning used car dealership, we take pride in selling high-quality cars and in providing exceptional aftercare. Every car sold comes with a comprehensive RAC warranty for three months as standard, underscoring our commitment to your satisfaction and driving security. Our dealership is renowned for going above and beyond, ensuring that each customer leaves not only with a great car but also with the assurance of support and protection
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post regarding consumer rights when buying a used car is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The content is based on general guidelines and may not reflect the most current legal developments. For specific legal advice pertaining to your individual situation, it is recommended to consult with a qualified legal professional. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content in this blog post.