What to Do If a Dealership Sells You a Faulty Car in the UK

Buying a car is one of the most significant purchases you’ll ever make, so discovering that your new set of wheels is faulty can be a real nightmare.

If you’ve found yourself in this unfortunate situation, don’t panic—you’re not alone, and UK law is on your side.

This guide will walk you through exactly what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car, helping you navigate your rights and ensuring you get the resolution you deserve.

Understanding Your Rights When Buying a Car from a Dealership

When you purchase a car from a dealership in the UK, you’re protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

This piece of legislation is designed to ensure that any goods you buy, including cars, are of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described.

But what exactly does this mean when it comes to buying a car?

• Satisfactory quality: The car should be in good working order, free from defects, and meet the standards a reasonable person would expect, given the car’s age, make, model, and mileage.
• Fit for purpose: The car should be suitable for the purpose for which you bought it. For example, if you mentioned that you need a car for long motorway commutes, it should be up to the task.
• As described: The car must match the description given by the dealer. This includes any information provided verbally, in advertisements, or in writing.

If your car doesn’t meet these criteria, it’s considered faulty under UK law, and you’re entitled to take action.

Immediate Steps to Take If You Discover a Fault

If you discover that your car has a fault, it’s crucial to act quickly.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Document the Issue: As soon as you notice a problem, start documenting it. Take photos, videos, and notes detailing the fault. Keep a record of any warning lights, noises, or performance issues. This evidence will be vital if you need to escalate the issue later.
2. Contact the Dealership: Get in touch with the dealership as soon as possible. Explain the fault and provide them with your documentation. Be polite but firm, and request a resolution. The dealership may offer to repair the car, provide a replacement, or give you a refund. If you’re dealing with a specific brand like Toyota or Audi, it’s worth checking out our page on Toyota or Audi for brand-specific advice.
3. Act Within 30 Days: If the fault appears within the first 30 days of purchase, you have the right to reject the car and receive a full refund. This is known as the 30-day right to reject. Make sure you notify the dealership within this period to take advantage of this right.

Your Right to a Repair, Replacement, or Refund

The Consumer Rights Act gives you certain entitlements depending on when the fault is discovered.

• Within the First 30 Days: If the fault arises within the first 30 days, you can reject the car and claim a full refund. The dealership is legally obliged to comply.
• After 30 Days but Within Six Months: If the fault is discovered after the initial 30 days but within six months, you still have the right to a repair or replacement. The dealer is given one chance to fix the problem. If the repair fails or is not possible, you can ask for a refund or a replacement vehicle. Keep in mind that any refund may be reduced to reflect the use you’ve had from the car.
• After Six Months: If the fault arises after six months, the burden of proof shifts to you. You’ll need to prove that the fault was present when you bought the car. This might involve getting an independent expert to inspect the vehicle. If you can prove the fault was pre-existing, you still have the right to a repair, replacement, or refund, though it may be more challenging to secure.

What to Do If the Dealership Refuses to Cooperate

Unfortunately, not all dealerships will handle your complaint smoothly.

If the dealership refuses to cooperate, here’s what you can do:

1. File a Formal Complaint: If you’re not satisfied with the dealership’s response, escalate the issue by making a formal complaint. Put your complaint in writing, outlining the problem and what you expect as a resolution.
2. Involve Third-Party Organisations: If the dealership still refuses to resolve the issue, you can escalate your complaint to a third-party organisation like the Motor Ombudsman. They offer a free and impartial service to help resolve disputes between consumers and dealerships.
3. Contact Trading Standards: Trading Standards can offer advice and may investigate the dealership if they believe there is a pattern of misconduct. While they don’t resolve individual disputes, their involvement can put additional pressure on the dealership.
4. Consider Legal Action: If all else fails, you may need to take legal action. You can file a claim in the small claims court if the amount is under £10,000. While this should be a last resort, it’s an effective way to enforce your rights if the dealership won’t budge.

Protecting Yourself in the Future

To avoid the stress of dealing with a faulty car, here are some tips for protecting yourself in future car purchases:

• Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Before buying a used car, consider getting a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic. This can highlight any potential issues before you hand over your money. If you’re considering a specific make, you might find it helpful to check out our pages on Volkswagen and Tesla for insights.
• Read the Warranty Carefully: Make sure you fully understand what the warranty covers and what it doesn’t. Some warranties may not cover certain types of faults, so it’s crucial to know where you stand.
• Check the Vehicle History: Obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report. This report can reveal if the car has been in any accidents, has outstanding finance, or has been written off in the past. For more information on specific models, you can also explore our page on Honda.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if I suspect a fault within the first 30 days?

If you discover a fault within the first 30 days, you should immediately contact the dealership and request a full refund under the 30-day right to reject.

Can I return a car if it’s faulty after six months?

Yes, but you’ll need to prove that the fault was present at the time of purchase. If you can prove this, you may still be entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund.

What legal actions can I take if the dealership denies the fault?

If the dealership denies the fault and refuses to resolve the issue, you can escalate your complaint to the Motor Ombudsman, Trading Standards, or consider legal action through the small claims court.

How long does the process of getting a refund or repair usually take?

The time it takes can vary depending on the dealership’s responsiveness and the complexity of the fault. It could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

Conclusion

Discovering that your new car is faulty can be incredibly frustrating, but remember that UK law is designed to protect you.

By acting quickly, documenting everything, and knowing your rights, you can ensure that you’re not left out of pocket.

If a dealership sells you a faulty car, don’t hesitate to stand up for yourself and pursue the resolution you deserve.

Are you looking to buy a new used car? Contact us today and we can help you!