Wherever you’re buying, avoid signing anything or paying money until you’re completely satisfied – there will always be other similar cars available, so don’t take unnecessary risks if something feels wrong.

• If you’re unsure about the car or its history, it’s safer to walk away.
• Even if the law is on your side, reclaiming your money through the courts can be costly and time-consuming.
• Your rights vary depending on where you buy. Private sales and auctions offer less protection compared to dealers.
• Buying from a dealer generally offers the greatest legal protection and least risk.
• Dealers are required to prepare vehicles for sale, ensuring mileage accuracy and overall condition.

The Consumer Rights Act 2015

The Consumer Rights Act took effect on 1 October 2015. It governs purchases of goods, digital content, and services – including new and used cars from official dealers – as well as repairs and maintenance. It does not apply to private sales.

Products must be:

• Of satisfactory quality
• Fit for purpose
• As described

(For purchases made before 1 October 2015, the Sale of Goods Act applies.)

Dealers must have the right to sell the vehicle and are responsible for addressing faults present at the time of sale, even if they surface later.

Satisfactory Quality

Vehicles should meet reasonable expectations based on age, price, mileage, and description.

• An older car with high mileage won’t match the quality of a newer, low-mileage one.
• Nonetheless, all vehicles must be roadworthy, reliable, and appropriately maintained.
• If the car is not of satisfactory quality, the remedy depends on the timing and nature of the fault – consider seeking legal advice or visiting http://www.adviceguide.org.uk.

Wear and Tear

Dealers aren’t responsible for faults caused by normal wear and tear or problems that arise through regular use. They’re also not liable for issues they highlighted before the sale.

Fit for Purpose

Vehicles must perform as expected for standard driving purposes, including specific uses mentioned before purchase, such as towing or short journeys.

Faults, Repairs, and Refunds

If a fault makes the car unsatisfactory, unfit for purpose, or not as described, you can reject it within 30 days of purchase.

Between 30 Days and 6 Months

For faults appearing after 30 days but within six months:

• The dealer must repair, replace, or refund the vehicle.
• Faults are presumed to have existed at the time of purchase unless proven otherwise.
• Dealers have one opportunity to fix the issue. If unsuccessful, you’re entitled to a refund.
• If a refund is issued, the dealer may deduct a reasonable amount for the use you’ve had.

After 6 Months

After six months, the responsibility falls on you to prove the fault existed at the time of sale.

Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations

Dealers must adhere to the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations (2008), prohibiting unfair practices:

1. False Information – Misleading claims about the vehicle’s condition, specification, or history.
2. Withholding Information – Failing to disc