Your Legal Rights When Buying a Used Car

Rights under Consumer Rights Act (when buying from a dealer)

When buying from a dealer, you're protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which states that goods must be:

• Of satisfactory quality – The car should be in a condition that a reasonable person would consider acceptable, given its age, price, and history.
• Fit for purpose – The car should be roadworthy and able to do what it's supposed to do.
• As described – The car must match the dealer's description, including any adverts or statements made verbally.

Your Timeframes for Claims

• First 30 days – You have the right to reject the car and get a full refund if it's faulty.
• 30 days to 6 months – You're entitled to a repair or replacement. If that's not possible or successful, you can claim a refund (which may be reduced for usage).
• After 6 months – You still have rights, but you may need to prove the fault was present at the time of purchase (rather than the dealer having to prove it wasn't).

Limitations with private sellers

When buying privately, your rights are much more limited. The car must be:

• As described – The seller can't misrepresent the car.
• The seller's to sell – They must legally own the car and have the right to sell it.

That's it. Private sales are essentially "sold as seen" with no warranty implied. The principle of "caveat emptor" (buyer beware) applies.

Cooling-off period for online purchases

• Distance selling – If you buy a car online without seeing it in person, you typically have 14 days to return it under the Consumer Contracts Regulations.
• Credit purchases – If you buy a car using finance arranged by the dealer and sign the agreement at home, you may have a 14-day cooling-off period.
• Exceptions – These rights don't apply if you visited the dealer in person before buying, even if you completed the purchase online.

What to Do If Things Go Wrong

With a Dealer

1. Act quickly – The sooner you report issues, the stronger your case.
2. Document everything – Keep all communications, receipts, and evidence of faults.
3. Get an independent inspection – This can provide evidence of pre-existing faults.
4. Formal complaint – Put your complaint in writing, referencing the Consumer Rights Act.
5. Escalate if needed – If the dealer doesn't resolve the issue, contact:
   • The Motor Ombudsman (if the dealer is registered)
   • Trading Standards via Citizens Advice
   • Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services
   • Small Claims Court (for claims up to £10,000 in England and Wales)

With a Private Seller

1. Contact the seller – Explain the issue and try to reach an agreement.
2. Gather evidence – If they misrepresented the car, collect proof (e.g., screenshots of the advert).
3. Legal action – For misrepresentation, you may need to pursue a claim through small claims court.

Protecting Yourself Before Purchase

• Get everything in writing – Save adverts and get verbal promises in writing.
• Check the paperwork – Verify the V5C logbook, service history, and MOT history.
• Get a vehicle history check – Check for outstanding finance, write-offs, or stolen status.
• Pre-purchase inspection – Have the car professionally checked before buying.
• Pay safely – Use bank transfers or credit cards (over £100) for additional protection.

Next Steps

Now that you understand your legal rights, learn more about:

• Pre-Purchase Inspection Guide – Protect yourself before buying
• What CarMigos Does – How we can help with your car purchase