Purchasing a car which is not right

[gkd_uk]

Hi

What rights do consumers have who have purchased a 2nd has car and then realised that there is something wrong with it, which will cost a thousand or more to repair?

Is the consumer stuck?

[Tony]

Hi GKD,

It is best to avoid the problems in the first place and I have written a useful guide to buying a second hand car for this purpose.

You have the same rights when buying a second hand car that you have when buying anything. However, with a second hand car it really depends whether the problems are reasonable for a car of its age, mileage and price. It also depends what the seller said about the vehicle and when the faults appeared.

I'll write a new detailed guide when I get a chance

Tony

[gkd_uk]

Thanks Tony

I believe there is a lot of confusion when it comes to purchasing a second hand car which has some faults.

[temi]

My neighbor just bout a second hand car on ebay, I told him that is not a good way to buy a car.... new he just found out that the engine is kaput, I am trying very hard not to say "I told you so"

[Paul Carcone]

It is possible to obtain warranties on second hand cars (it costs around £500 for the year). It's worth asking your dealership whether or not they are prepared to include one or provide the service to you.

If they refuse, I wouldn't touch the car! I'd also NEVER buy an older car privately...it's really asking for trouble.

Paul Carcone

[Tony]

That's a great tip Paul, 'reputation' added. The guide I mentioned in an earlier post has been completed by Catriona. You can read it here: consumer rights when buying a car | Consumer Information