Buying a used car is a huge investment, and the car you are buying has to be not only in good condition but also legally sound. A bit of diligence before committing to a deal when buying from a private seller, motor trader, or auction can save you a great deal of time, money, and frustration.
Important Things to Know:
- You would not be entitled to a refund if the seller has already notified faults, or the damage is observable.
- In cases where the car has some degree of wear and tear or just change your mind after purchasing the car, then you may not be eligible to get a refund.
Before buying, check out what your full legal rights are by visiting websites such as Citizens Advice or reading the “Used Motor Vehicles: Your Rights” guide.
Also, carry out a comprehensive history check using an online car checker service. This will reveal important details such as whether the car has outstanding finance, is recorded as stolen, or has been previously written off. This will protect you from buying a vehicle with a hidden past.
Know Your Consumer Rights
Buying a second-hand car, particularly from a trader, will give you some protection under UK consumer law. The car must be of satisfactory quality; fit for any purpose you may reasonably rely on it for, and described accurately, not misleading. It must also be safe to drive, unless the seller indicates otherwise. The law expects you also to be careful. Always check what the seller has told you and do not take their word on any matter.
Three Important Verifications Before Purchase
The three essential things to inspect before purchasing a used car are the seller, the car, and documentation.
- Check the Seller
If you are buying from a trader, you get more protection. Traders must operate within some legal strictures, and purchases made through a trader are likely to be protected by consumer law. Here’s what you do:
- Research the seller: Check reviews and make sure the trader is registered at Companies House; check if approved by Trading Standards.
- Verify credentials: Ensure they are a member of a trade association, like the Motor Industry Ombudsman, and if they have finance options, which will have to be processed through a regulated company for your protection.
- Keep records: Always save copies of the advert and transaction documents. If the car turns out to be problematic, you may need these for a claim.
In the case of a private sale, the consumer rights protection is weaker. Ensure that the car is roadworthy and that it matches the description given by the seller.
For buyers who buy from an auction, note that consumer protection is low. Carefully read the terms of the auction before bidding, and be aware that returns and refunds may not be possible.
- Check the Vehicle
Carefully look through the car and ensure that it is in a satisfactory condition:
- Mileage: Compare the figures indicated on the vehicle with its actual physical condition. Worn-out pedals, seats, or carpets might hint at mileage higher than those indicated.
- Previous Damage: Ask the seller if there has been any previous accident or damage. A good trader should give you a recent independent check on the car’s history. Carry out an independent reg check to verify any historical information, such as write-off details.
- Obvious flaws: Check the tyre tread, paintwork, and features like air conditioning or heated seats, and ensure everything works.
If you are not sure about the condition of the car, you can hire a professional car engineer to do a full inspection.
- Check the Documentation
Do not miss the paper trail of the car:
- V5C logbook: Check it is genuine with the proper DVL watermark. Check the VIN and engine number of the car against the ones in the logbook.
- MOT history: Check the MOT history of the car for advisories or mileage differences.
- Service records: A full-service history is a bonus. Contact the servicing garages to confirm that the stamps are genuine.
- Contract details: If you are purchasing over the phone or online, the advert description should be included within your contract. This limits the seller from backing out on any promises that they made.
For online or phone purchases, you have generally 14 days to cancel the contract; therefore, proceed with caution and carry out as much checking before buying.