Introduction to Car Purchase Issues
When buying or repairing a car in the UK, it’s not uncommon to run into legal problems – whether the car turns out to be faulty, isn’t as described, or repairs aren’t done to a satisfactory standard. Understanding your rights is crucial, as it can help you avoid costly mistakes and resolve disputes more effectively.
UK law provides important protections for consumers. For example, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 gives you the right to expect that any car you buy from a dealer is of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. If you’re having repairs done, the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 requires garages to carry out work with reasonable care and skill. Knowing these rules can make it easier to challenge a seller or garage if something goes wrong.
This page gives a broad overview of the legal issues you might face when buying or repairing a car, from spotting problems with a used vehicle to dealing with unsatisfactory repairs. You’ll also find links to more detailed advice on specific topics, such as your rights when buying a car, what to do if repairs aren’t done properly, and tips for selling a car.
If you’d like a more detailed overview of the specific issues with buying or repairing a car, you can explore our related guides for step-by-step support.
Your Rights When Buying a Car
When you buy a car in the UK, whether it’s new or used, you have important legal rights to protect you if things go wrong. The main law that covers car purchases is the Consumer Rights Act 2015. This law applies to most vehicles bought from a dealer or trader, and it sets out clear rules about what you should expect.
Under the cars in the Consumer Rights Act 2015, any car you buy must be:
Of satisfactory quality – The car should be in a reasonable condition, taking into account its age, mileage, and price.
Fit for purpose – The car must be suitable for any specific purpose you made clear to the seller.
As described – The car must match the description given by the seller, whether that’s in an advert, online listing, or in person.
If you discover that your car is faulty, not as described, or even stolen, these rights give you strong protection. For example, if there’s a problem soon after purchase, you may be entitled to a repair, replacement, or even a refund, depending on the circumstances.
Remember, these rights mainly apply when buying from a business seller. If you buy privately, your rights are more limited, but the car still must match its description and be roadworthy.
Knowing your rights makes it easier to resolve issues quickly if something goes wrong after you buy a car. For more details on how the law protects you, see our guide to cars in the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
Consumer Rights Act 2015 and Cars
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 is a key piece of legislation that protects anyone buying a new or used car from a dealer in the UK. Under this law, cars must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described by the seller. If you discover a fault or if the car isn’t as promised, you have important rights – such as the ability to reject the car, request a repair, or ask for a refund. There are also strict time limits for making a claim, so it’s important to act quickly if something goes wrong. For a full explanation of how these rights apply when buying a car, see our detailed guide on the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and cars.
Common Car Purchase Problems and How to Handle Them
When buying a car, it’s important to be aware of common problems that can arise and know how to respond if things go wrong. Some of the most frequent issues include discovering the car is faulty, finding out it was misdescribed by the seller, learning the vehicle is stolen, or facing unexpected problems with used cars.
Typical Problems Buyers Face
Faulty Cars: Sometimes, cars develop mechanical or electrical faults soon after purchase. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, if you buy from a dealer, the car must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. If you suspect an issue, see our advice on if you bought a faulty car.
Misdescriptions: A car may not match the description given by the seller, such as incorrect mileage, hidden accident damage, or undisclosed previous use as a taxi. Always check the car’s documents and history thoroughly.
Stolen Vehicles: Buying a stolen car can have serious consequences, including losing both the car and your money. Learn what to do if you bought a stolen car.
Used Car Issues: Used cars come with their own set of risks, including wear and tear or undisclosed faults. Make sure you understand your rights by reading about used car purchase legal considerations and our guide to buying damaged cars.
Spotting Problems Early
Before buying, always inspect the car in good light, check the service history, and consider getting an independent mechanic’s report. Look for inconsistencies in paperwork and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
What to Do If You Encounter Problems
If you discover an issue after purchase, contact the seller as soon as possible. Explain the problem clearly and keep records of all communications. Depending on the situation, you may have the right to a repair, replacement, or refund – especially if you act within 30 days of purchase. If the seller refuses to help, you may need to escalate your complaint or seek legal advice.
For more detailed guidance on each type of problem, follow the relevant links above.
If You Bought a Faulty Car
When you buy a car in the UK, the law says it must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. If your new or used car turns out to be faulty – whether it has mechanical problems, hidden damage, or doesn’t match the seller’s description – you have certain rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to reject the car for a full refund, request a repair or replacement, or seek a partial refund. The steps you need to take can vary depending on whether you bought from a dealer or a private seller, and how soon you report the problem.
To understand your legal rights in detail and what actions you can take, see our dedicated guide on if you bought a faulty car.
For more on your general rights about problems with purchased goods, or if you need to write to a private seller, you can use our letter to complain about misdescribed goods including cars.
If You Bought a Stolen Car
If you discover that the car you have purchased is stolen, it can be a stressful and complicated situation. Under UK law, you do not own legal title to a stolen vehicle, even if you bought it in good faith. This means the car could be seized and returned to its rightful owner, and you may not automatically get your money back. There are important steps you should take, such as reporting the issue to the police and contacting the seller. To understand how to check if a car is stolen, what your rights are, and what actions you can take to try to recover your money, see our dedicated guide on if you bought a stolen car.
Used Car Purchase Legal Considerations
When buying a used car, there are important legal considerations to keep in mind. Unlike new cars, used vehicles can come with hidden faults or unclear histories, so it’s vital to carry out thorough checks and ask the right questions before making a purchase. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have the right to expect that the car is as described, of satisfactory quality, and fit for purpose – even if it’s second-hand.
Sellers, whether they are dealers or private individuals, have different legal obligations. Dealers must ensure the car meets certain standards, while private sellers only need to accurately describe the car. It’s also important to consider issues like outstanding finance, previous accidents, and legal requirements for road tax and insurance. For more about the legal aspects of buying used cars with cheap road tax and insurance, see our dedicated guide.
For a detailed breakdown of your rights, what to check, and how to protect yourself when buying a second-hand car, visit our page on used car purchase legal considerations.
Rejecting a Car – UK Legal Considerations
If you discover that your new or used car is faulty, not as described, or unfit for purpose, you may have the right to reject it under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. There are important time limits and steps you must follow to successfully reject a car, and your rights can differ depending on how soon after purchase the problem is identified. After rejection, you may be entitled to a full refund, a repair, or a replacement, depending on your circumstances and the stage in the process.
To understand exactly when and how you can reject a car, what the legal process involves, and what happens next, see our dedicated page on rejecting a car – UK legal considerations. This guide explains your rights in detail and outlines the steps you need to take.
Car Repairs and Related Disputes
When you take your car to a garage for repairs or servicing, you expect the work to be carried out with reasonable care and skill. However, problems can sometimes arise – common issues include repairs not being completed properly, being charged for work you didn’t agree to, or the car developing new faults after a visit to the garage.
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, services provided by garages must be performed with reasonable care and skill. If the repairs are not up to standard, not completed as agreed, or cause further problems, you have the right to ask the garage to fix the issue at no extra cost. If they refuse, or if you’re unhappy with the outcome, you may be entitled to seek a refund or compensation.
Handling disputes with garages can feel daunting, but it’s important to keep records of all communications and work done. If you can’t resolve the issue directly, you might consider formal complaints or even legal action. For a more detailed guide on your options, see our section on garage and car repair disputes.
In some cases, problems with repairs can also affect your car finance agreement or your ability to claim compensation. Learn more about your rights in these situations in our guide to car finance and compensation.
Resolving Disputes and Taking Legal Action
When you face a dispute with a car seller or garage, there are several ways to try and resolve the issue before considering formal legal action. Start by discussing the problem directly with the seller or garage – explain your concerns clearly and refer to your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which protects you when a car is faulty, not as described, or when repairs are unsatisfactory.
If talking things through doesn’t work, consider using mediation. This is an independent service that can help both sides reach an agreement without going to court. Some trade associations or local consumer advice services offer mediation for car-related disputes.
If negotiation and mediation do not resolve the issue, you may need to consider taking formal legal action. This could involve making a claim through the small claims court, especially if the amount involved is under £10,000 in England and Wales. Before starting this process, make sure you have kept detailed records – save all receipts, repair reports, correspondence, and photographs of any faults or damage. Good evidence will strengthen your case if you need to take things further.
For more detailed guidance on your next steps, including how to prepare for legal proceedings, see our section on cars – legal action and dispute resolution.
Additional Considerations When Buying or Selling Cars
When buying or selling a car, there are a few extra legal points to keep in mind to help protect yourself and avoid common pitfalls.
Insurance Requirements for Buyers
Before you drive your new car, you must have at least third-party motor insurance in place – it’s a legal requirement in the UK under the Road Traffic Act 1988. There are several types of insurance available, including third-party, third-party fire and theft, and comprehensive cover. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right policy for your needs and budget.
Selling Your Car: Why Knowledge of Purchase Issues Matters
If you’re planning to sell your car privately, being aware of common purchase issues – such as faults, misleading descriptions, or incomplete paperwork – can help you avoid disputes. Buyers have legal rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 if the car is not as described or is unroadworthy. By understanding these issues, you can make sure you meet your obligations as a seller and avoid potential claims. For more on this, see our guide to selling your car privately – legal considerations.
Clear Agreements and Honest Descriptions
Whether you’re buying or selling, always make sure that the details of the sale are clear and recorded in writing. Provide or request a full, honest description of the car’s condition, history, and any known issues. This transparency helps build trust and can prevent disputes later on. Always keep copies of any agreements or correspondence for your records.
By considering these additional points, you can help make the process of buying or selling a car smoother and more secure.
