Contents
In short
- From a dealer, the Consumer Rights Act protects you: the car must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described.
- You can reject a faulty car for a full refund within 30 days.
- Within 6 months, a fault is presumed to have been there at purchase: the dealer must repair or replace.
- From a private seller, the car only has to be as described (and roadworthy).
- Keep the ad, messages and invoices: they're your evidence.
Buying from a dealer: the Consumer Rights Act
When you buy from a business, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 applies. The car must be:
- Of satisfactory quality, taking into account its age, mileage and price.
- Fit for purpose, including any purpose you told the dealer about.
- As described in the ad and by the salesperson.
Your remedies
- Within 30 days: you can reject the car and get a full refund.
- Within 6 months: the dealer gets one chance to repair or replace. If that fails, you can reject the car, with a possible deduction for use. The fault is presumed to have existed at delivery.
- After 6 months: you can still claim, but you have to show the fault was there at purchase.
Normal wear and tear isn't covered: brake pads, tyres, a clutch at high mileage are part of a used car's life.
Buying from a private seller
A private seller doesn't have to guarantee quality. The car must be as described, and it's an offence to sell a car that isn't roadworthy.
If the seller lied about the car (mileage, service history, accident damage), you may be able to claim misrepresentation, but it often means going to court.
How to use your rights
- Stop using the car as soon as the fault appears, if it's unsafe.
- Contact the dealer in writing, describing the fault and the remedy you want.
- Keep everything: the ad, messages, invoices, the car's paperwork and photos of the fault.
- If the dealer refuses, use a motor industry ombudsman or alternative dispute resolution scheme, then the small claims court if needed.
Written by
The Carvizia team
Every day we analyse used car listings: engines, known faults, maintenance and market value. Our guides bring together what to check before you buy, without jargon.
About usFrequently asked questions
Can a dealer sell a car “sold as seen” to avoid my rights?
No. A dealer can't remove your rights under the Consumer Rights Act with “sold as seen” or “trade sale” wording.
Does a dealer warranty replace my legal rights?
No. A warranty is extra; your legal rights apply whatever the warranty says.
What rights do I have when buying at auction?
Fewer: rules differ for auctions, especially if you don't attend in person. Read the auction's terms before bidding.