Used cars - consumer rights
(for England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
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When you buy goods from a trader, you enter into a legally binding contract governed by the Sale of Goods Act 1979, as amended by the Sale and Supply of Goods Act 1994 and the Sale and Supply of Goods to Consumers Regulations 2002. If you buy a used car from a trader it must be of satisfactory quality, fit for the purpose, and as described. Obviously a very old car with a high mileage will not be as good as a newer car with a low mileage, but it should still be fit for use on the road, in a condition which reflects its age and price, and reliable.
Traders cannot take away consumers rights by using terms such as ‘sold as seen’. Your legal rights are reduced if you buy a car from a private seller or an auction. If you buy a used car via the internet, you may have additional rights under the Distance Selling Regulations.
If you have a problem with a used car, you have a short time after buying it to reject the car. If the fault was present when you bought the car, you do have other remedies such as repair or replacement. It is recommended you always follow up complaints with the details in writing, and keep copies of all correspondence. As a last resort, you may need to consider taking court action. Remember, used cars may have some faults, but they should not be excessive. Fair wear and tear is not considered to be a fault.
