Cardiff Council’s Trading Standards is warning people to be on their guard when buying a second hand car as used cars continue to top the number of complaints to the Office of Fair Trading.
Complaints include faults with the cars, misleading claims or omissions by the seller and substandard services.
Consumers are left out of pocket by an average of £425 each, or £85 million per year in total, because they have to fix unresolved faults that are the dealers’ obligation to correct.
Private sellers often offer the cheapest prices but buyers are urged to be cautious and be aware they will not have the full legal protection they would have if buying from a dealer.
Some dodgy dealers will pretend to be private sellers to avoid their legal obligations and get rid of faulty or overpriced cars. Unlike dealers, private buyers have no business premises making it difficult to trace them should things go wrong.
Councillor Judith Woodman, deputy leader of Cardiff Council, said: “We continue to receive a high number of complaints which are often due to traders refusing to deal with legitimate complaints or provide appropriate compensation. Our Trading Standards service provides guidance to the many car dealers operating within the county and we take action against those who flout the law. Fraudulent behaviour will not be tolerated in Cardiff and consumers can be reassured that we will take appropriate action to tackle those who cause consumer detriment in this way. But we’re also keen for buyers to know their rights and take some basic steps which can help to avoid being sold a dud in the first place.”
The OFT’s advice to people buying used cars from dealers include:
- Before you buy, ask the dealer the right questions such as what mechanical, history or mileage checks have they done?
- Any car that you buy from a dealer should be:
– of satisfactory quality
– fit for purpose
– and as described.
If it isn’t, the item is faulty.
If you discover that the car is faulty, go back to the trader as soon as possible. If they are unable to help you, contact Consumer Direct on 0845 040506 (English) or 08454 04 05 05 (Welsh)
- Warranties are an additional benefit and do not replace your rights.
- Cheaper cars might be available from auctions or private sellers but consumers have fewer rights.
- Information and advice on buying used cars is available at www.direct.gov.uk/consumercar
Top tips:
- Is the car in reasonable condition? Look at the car in daylight and during dryweather.
- Is it an insurance write off? The clearest giveaway is evidence of welding or repair to the engine and boot.
- Has it been clocked? Watch out for numbers on the mileometer being out of line or the amount of wear and tear being inconsistent with the mileage claimed.
- Is it stolen? Signs include tampering to the Vehicle Identification Number, indications that new locks have been fitted, or signs of forced entry.
- Go on a test drive, taking notice of any unusual handling, smells or sounds.
- Have the vehicle professionally examined by a mechanic.
- Check paperwork – ask for the V5 registration document, insurance policy and current MOT certificate.
- If the deal is not right for you, walk away
