Your rights when buying a used car from a dealer
It’s crucial you know your rights when buying a used car from a dealer to ensure you’re protected. In the UK, dealers must adhere to the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which guarantees that the vehicle must be:
✅ Of satisfactory quality
✅ Fit for purpose
✅ As described
You’re also entitled to repairs, replacement, or refund if the car is faulty.
Read on to learn more about your rights. This will help you make informed decisions and ensure you handle issues confidently.
- Key legislation when purchasing a vehicle from dealerships
- Assessing if you can trust a car dealer
- The essential checks before buying a used car
- The importance of a thorough inspection and test drive
- What’s involved with buying a used car
- Addressing problems after buying
- FAQs
The key legislation when purchasing a vehicle from dealerships
When buying a used car, several key pieces of legislation protect your rights as a consumer:
Consumer Rights Act 2015
👉 Satisfactory Quality: The car must meet the standard expected for its age, mileage, and price.
👉 Fit for purpose: The car should be suitable for the specific purpose you discussed with the dealer.
👉 As described: The car must match the dealer’s description, including any adverts.
Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008
👉 Misleading practices: It’s illegal for dealers to provide false or misleading information about the car.
👉 Aggressive sales tactics: The law protects you from high-pressure sales tactics that could force you into making a purchase.
Sale of Goods Act 1979 (for purchases before October 2015)
👉 Implied terms: This older legislation covers similar protections as the Consumer Rights Act, ensuring goods are of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described.
Assessing if you can trust a car dealer
How to check a dealer’s reputation
Before buying a used car, it’s vital to check the dealer’s reputation. Start by reading online reviews on platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews to gauge customer satisfaction. Look for consistent feedback on service quality, transparency, and after-sales support.
Also, check if the dealer is a member of trade associations like the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) or the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which uphold strict ethical standards.
Qualifications and certifications
Look for if the dealer has any key qualifications and certifications. A reputable dealer should have certifications such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) approval to meet financial regulations.
Affiliations with recognised industry bodies like the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) also demonstrate a commitment to professional standards. These credentials demonstrate the dealer’s commitment to quality service and ethical business practices.
The essential checks before buying a used car
Check the car’s history with the DVLA
Before purchasing a used car, checking the vehicle’s history with the DVLA is crucial. This check can confirm essential details like:
👉 The car’s registered keeper
👉 Colour changes
👉 Any outstanding finance
Plus, you can verify the vehicle’s registration number (VIN) and other details to ensure they match the seller’s information. A DVLA check helps you avoid stolen or cloned cars, giving you peace of mind before committing to the purchase.
What the car’s MOT history tells you
Reviewing a car’s MOT history is vital in assessing its condition. The MOT history reveals any previous failures or advisories, giving insight into recurring issues or potential problem areas.
Examining the MOT records can tell you how well the car has been maintained and whether it has passed safety and emissions standards. This information can also help you negotiate the price or decide if the vehicle is worth purchasing.
The importance of a comprehensive private history check
A comprehensive private history check is essential for uncovering any hidden issues with a used car. Services like HPI or Experian provide detailed reports on whether the vehicle has:
🚩 Been written off
🚩 Outstanding finance
🚩 Been reported stolen
These checks also reveal any mileage discrepancies and whether the vehicle has been involved in any major accidents. A thorough history check ensures you’re fully informed about the car’s past, helping you avoid costly surprises.
The importance of a thorough inspection and test drive
What to look for during an inspection
When inspecting a used car, pay close attention to the exterior and interior. Look for signs of rust, dents, or mismatched paint, which could indicate previous repairs. Inside, check the condition of the seats, dashboard, and electronics.
Under the bonnet, ensure there are no leaks, strange noises, or excessive wear on components. Don’t forget to examine the tyres for even wear and sufficient tread. A thorough inspection helps you spot potential problems early.
Tips for a good test drive
Focus on how the car handles and responds when taking it for a test drive:
1. Start by checking the steering for smoothness and responsiveness
2. Listen for unusual noises from the engine, brakes, or suspension.
3. Test the gears, clutch, and brakes for proper function, and ensure all dashboard lights work.
4. To assess the car’s performance in varied conditions, ensure you drive on different road types.
5. A practical test drive is crucial for identifying any underlying mechanical issues.
What’s involved with buying a used car
The necessary paperwork and documentation for transferring the ownership
When transferring ownership of a used car, ensure you have all the necessary paperwork. This includes:
👍 V5C logbook (which must be completed and sent to the DVLA)
👍 Receipt of sale
👍 Service history
👍 MOT certificates
👍 Any warranty documents
Verify that the seller’s details match the V5C and that the car is not subject to outstanding finance. Proper documentation is crucial to legally transferring ownership and protecting your purchase.
The different methods of paying
Choosing the right payment method for a used car is essential for security and convenience. Paying in cash offers simplicity but carries risks, like theft or lack of a paper trail.
Finance options, such as hire purchase or personal contract purchase (PCP), allow you to spread the cost but may include interest. Electronic transfers provide a secure and traceable method, though ensure the seller is legitimate to avoid scams.
Each method has its implications for cost and security.
Addressing problems after buying
If you discover faults after purchasing a used car, act promptly. First, contact the dealer to report the issue and provide fault details. You’re entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund within the first 30 days under the Consumer Rights Act 2015,
If the dealer is uncooperative, escalate the matter by seeking advice from Citizens Advice or consider taking legal action. Document all communications and keep records to support your case.
FAQs
Do I have the right to return a used car?
Yes, you have the right to return a used car if it’s faulty, not as described, or unfit for purpose. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 allows you to request repairs, a replacement, or a refund, depending on the situation.
How long do I have to reject a used car?
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have 30 days from the purchase date to reject a faulty used car and claim a full refund. After 30 days, the dealer must offer a repair or replacement if issues arise.
Thinking of buying a used car?
Got your eye on a second-hand car but not sure you know all you need to know about buying it? Worry no more! Our guides on purchasing used vehicles will help you avoid getting stung when it comes to handing your money over.