Understanding Your Rights When Rejecting a Car
When you buy a car in the UK, your rights as a consumer are protected by law. Understanding these rights is crucial if you find yourself needing to reject a vehicle due to faults, misdescription, or other legal grounds.
Your Rights Under UK Consumer Law
The main law covering car purchases from dealers is the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and cars. This legislation states that any car you buy must be:
Of satisfactory quality: The car should be in a condition that reflects its age, price, and mileage.
Fit for purpose: It must be suitable for the use you told the seller you needed it for.
As described: The vehicle should match the description provided by the seller, whether in adverts, brochures, or verbally.
If the car you purchased falls short in any of these areas, you may have the right to reject it.
When Can You Legally Reject a Car?
You can legally reject a car if it is faulty or not as described at the time of purchase. The law gives you a short-term right to reject – typically within 30 days from the date you took ownership of the car. During this period, you can return the vehicle and claim a full refund if a fault is discovered.
If you find a problem after the first 30 days but within six months, you still have rights. In this case, the dealer must be given the chance to repair or replace the car. If the problem persists, you may be able to reject the car and get a partial refund.
It’s important to note that these rights generally apply when buying from a dealership or trader. Private sales and auctions may offer less protection.
Key Legal Protections
Short-term right to reject: Return the car for a full refund within 30 days if it’s not of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, or as described.
Right to repair or replacement: After 30 days and up to six months, the dealer must attempt to fix the issue before you can reject the car.
Burden of proof: If a fault arises within the first six months, the law assumes it was present at the time of purchase unless the seller can prove otherwise.
For a broader understanding of your rights and options, you may wish to explore our section on car purchase issues.
Act Promptly
Timing is crucial when it comes to rejecting a car. The sooner you notify the seller about any issues, the stronger your position will be. Delays can affect your rights, especially if you continue to use the car after discovering a fault. Always keep records of your communications and any evidence of the problem.
By knowing your rights and acting quickly, you can protect yourself and ensure you get the remedy you’re entitled to under UK law.
When Can You Reject a Car?
When Can You Reject a Car?
Rejecting a car in the UK is a significant step, and your right to do so depends on several factors, including the reason for rejection, how long you’ve owned the car, and whether it was new or used. Understanding these circumstances can help you decide the best way to protect your rights as a buyer.
Circumstances That Justify Rejecting a Car
You may have the legal right to reject a car if:
The car is faulty: This includes mechanical problems, electrical faults, or any issue that makes the car unsafe or unfit for use.
The car was misdescribed: If the vehicle does not match the description given by the seller – such as the wrong model, incorrect mileage, or missing features – you may be entitled to reject it.
Undisclosed issues: Problems that were not revealed before purchase, such as previous accident damage or outstanding finance, can also justify rejection. For more on handling these situations, see our guide to buying damaged cars.
The law that protects you in these situations is the Consumer Rights Act 2015. It states that any car sold by a dealer must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described.
Time Limits for Rejecting a Car
Your ability to reject a car depends heavily on timing:
Within 30 days: You have the strongest rights if you act quickly. Under the Consumer Rights Act, you can reject a faulty car and claim a full refund within the first 30 days of purchase. This is often called the "short-term right to reject."
After 30 days but within 6 months: If a problem arises after the first 30 days but within six months, you can ask for a repair or replacement. If the issue is not resolved, you may still be able to reject the car, but the dealer usually has one chance to fix the problem first.
After 6 months: Your rights become more limited. You must prove the fault was present at the time of purchase, which can be more difficult.
New vs. Used Cars: What’s Different?
Your rejection rights apply to both new and used cars, but there are important differences:
New cars: Expectations for quality are higher. Any fault or misdescription is likely to justify rejection.
Used cars: The law still protects you, but reasonable wear and tear is expected. The car should be roadworthy and match its description, but minor issues may not qualify as grounds for rejection. For a detailed comparison, see our page on used car purchase legal considerations.
The Condition of the Car at Purchase
Your rights also depend on the car’s condition at the time of sale:
If the car was sold as "damaged" or "for spares or repair": Your ability to reject may be limited, as you agreed to buy it with known issues. Always check the sale terms and get any promises in writing.
If the car was sold as "approved used" or with a warranty: You should expect a higher standard, and faults may more easily justify rejection.
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, reviewing the guide to buying damaged cars can help clarify your rights, especially if the car’s condition was not fully disclosed.
Understanding when you can reject a car is key to protecting yourself from unfair deals. If you think your car might qualify for rejection, act quickly and keep all documentation. For more on your rights and next steps, explore related topics on this site.
Steps to Take When Rejecting a Car
When you decide to reject a car in the UK, it’s important to follow the correct steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case. Here’s a clear guide to help you through the process:
1. Notify the Seller in Writing
As soon as you discover a significant problem with your car – such as a major fault or if it was misdescribed – inform the seller straight away. It’s best to do this in writing (by email or letter), clearly stating:
The nature of the problem
That you wish to reject the car under your consumer rights
The remedy you are seeking (usually a full refund)
Be sure to reference the relevant law, such as the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which gives you the right to reject a car within 30 days of purchase if it’s not as described, not fit for purpose, or not of satisfactory quality.
2. Gather Evidence
Collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This could include:
Photographs or videos of the fault
Independent mechanic or garage reports
MOT certificates or inspection results
Receipts and documentation from the purchase
Having clear evidence makes it easier to demonstrate the issue to the seller and, if necessary, to third parties like dispute resolution services.
3. Keep Detailed Records
Keep copies of all correspondence with the seller, including emails, letters, and notes from phone calls. Record dates, times, and the names of anyone you speak to. This documentation will be invaluable if the situation escalates or if you need to prove your actions later.
4. Seek Expert Advice or Inspection
If the seller disputes your claim or the fault isn’t obvious, consider getting an independent inspection from a qualified mechanic or engineer. An expert report can provide impartial evidence, strengthening your position and clarifying the nature of the problem.
5. Understand the Seller’s Obligations
Once you have notified the seller of your intention to reject the car, they are legally required to respond and arrange for the return and refund if your claim is valid. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, if you reject the car within the first 30 days, you are usually entitled to a full refund. After this period, you may still have rights to a repair, replacement, or partial refund, depending on the circumstances.
If you want to know more about your rights and the process, see our step-by-step guide on if you bought a faulty car.
6. What If the Seller Refuses?
If the seller does not cooperate or refuses your rejection, you can escalate your complaint. One option is to contact your local council’s Trading Standards office, who can investigate unfair trading practices. For more information on how to do this, see the Trading Standards car complaint process.
By following these steps, you can make sure your car rejection is handled properly and your consumer rights are protected. If you’re unsure at any stage, consider seeking legal advice or assistance from a consumer protection organisation.
Remedies Available When Rejecting a Car
When you reject a car in the UK due to a fault or because it was misdescribed, you have several remedies under consumer law. The main options are a refund, repair, or replacement. The specific remedy you can pursue depends on factors like how long you’ve owned the car and the nature of the problem.
Refund
If you discover a fault with the car within the first 30 days of purchase, you usually have the right to reject it and claim a full refund. This is known as the “short-term right to reject” under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. The refund should be processed within 14 days of the seller agreeing to it, and you should not be charged for collection or removal of the vehicle.
If the fault appears after 30 days but within the first six months, you may still be entitled to a refund, but the seller usually has the right to offer a repair or replacement first. If the repair or replacement is unsuccessful or takes too long, you can then reject the car and claim a refund. In this case, the seller may make a deduction for the use you have had of the car.
For more on how these rules work in practice, see our guide to returns and refunds for faulty goods.
Repair or Replacement
If you prefer, or if it’s after the initial 30-day period, you can ask the seller to repair or replace the car. The seller must do this within a reasonable time and without significant inconvenience to you. If the repair or replacement does not resolve the issue, or if the same fault recurs, you can then pursue a refund or a price reduction.
How to Decide Which Remedy to Pursue
Within 30 days: If you want a straightforward solution and it’s within 30 days of purchase, a full refund is usually the best option.
After 30 days but within 6 months: Consider allowing a repair or replacement first, as the seller has a right to attempt this. If unsuccessful, you can still reject the car.
After 6 months: The burden of proof shifts to you to show the car was faulty at the time of purchase, which can make refunds harder to obtain. Repairs or replacements may still be possible, but your rights are more limited.
Legal Time Limits and Conditions
30 days: Full refund available for major faults.
6 months: Presumption the fault was present at purchase, unless the seller can prove otherwise.
After 6 months: You must prove the fault existed at the time of sale.
6 years (5 in Scotland): You may make a claim up to six years after purchase, but it becomes harder to prove the car was faulty when bought.
If the Seller Refuses to Comply
If the seller refuses to honour your rights – for example, by denying a refund or refusing to repair the car – you can escalate the matter. Start by putting your complaint in writing and keeping records of all correspondence. If this does not resolve the issue, you may consider using an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme, or as a last resort, taking legal action through the small claims court.
Understanding your remedies and the steps involved can help you act confidently if you need to reject a car. For more detailed information on your general rights when returning faulty goods, visit our page on returns and refunds for faulty goods.
Special Considerations in Rejecting a Car
Rejecting a car is not always straightforward, especially when special circumstances are involved. Below, we explore some of the most common situations that can affect your rights and responsibilities when returning a vehicle.
Car Finance Agreements
If you bought your car using a finance agreement, such as hire purchase (HP) or personal contract purchase (PCP), rejecting the car can be more complex. Legally, the finance company often owns the car until you’ve made all payments. This means your rejection claim should usually be made directly to the finance provider, not the dealership. You have the right to reject a financed car under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 if it is faulty or misdescribed, but you must inform the finance company as soon as possible and follow their procedures.
It’s important to understand how your repayments, deposit, and any negative equity may be affected. For more details on your specific rights and what compensation you may be entitled to, see our guide to car finance compensation rights.
Discovering the Car Is Stolen
If you find out after purchase that your car is stolen, your legal protections differ from a typical rejection. Under UK law, you cannot legally own stolen goods, even if you bought them in good faith. In most cases, the car will be returned to its rightful owner, and you may lose both the car and your money. However, you do have some rights to claim compensation, especially if you purchased from a dealer rather than a private seller. For a detailed explanation of what to do in this situation and how to protect yourself, read our advice on what happens if you bought a stolen car.
Accident or Insurance Claims
Rejecting a car that has been involved in an accident or is subject to an insurance claim can be complicated. If the accident occurred before your purchase and the car was not properly repaired or its accident history was not disclosed, you may have grounds to reject it for being misdescribed. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 requires that all material facts about a car’s history must be accurately represented.
If you’ve been in an accident after buying the car and want to reject it due to resulting faults, your rights may be limited. In such cases, your insurance policy will usually be the best route for compensation or repairs. For more information on your options and how to proceed, see our guide to making a claim if you’re in an accident.
Legal and Financial Responsibilities When Rejecting a Car
When you initiate a rejection, your legal and financial responsibilities depend on the circumstances:
Returning the Car: You are generally expected to return the car in a reasonable condition, accounting for fair wear and tear.
Refunds: If your rejection is successful, you should receive a full or partial refund, depending on how long you’ve owned the car and how much you’ve used it.
Outstanding Finance: If the car is on finance, the agreement should be cancelled and any payments refunded as appropriate, but always check with your finance provider for specific terms.
Insurance: You may need to update or cancel your insurance policy once the car is returned or your ownership ends.
Always keep written records of all communications with the seller, finance company, or insurer, and act promptly to protect your position. If you’re unsure about your rights or responsibilities in a specific scenario, seeking professional legal advice can help ensure you’re fully protected.
Understanding these special considerations can help you navigate the process of rejecting a car with confidence, whatever your situation.
Further Help and Resources
If you’re struggling to reject a car or your dealer is refusing to cooperate, it’s important to know where to turn for help. Here are some practical steps and resources to support you through the process.
Getting Legal Advice and Support
When facing difficulties with a car rejection, seeking professional advice can make a big difference. Many consumers start by contacting Citizens Advice or a local solicitor who specialises in consumer law. They can help you understand your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which gives you the right to reject a car within 30 days of purchase if it’s faulty, not as described, or unfit for purpose. If you’re outside the 30-day window, you may still be entitled to a repair, replacement, or partial refund.
Escalating Disputes
If you cannot resolve the issue directly with the dealer, you have options to escalate your complaint. You can:
Raise a formal complaint with the dealer in writing, clearly stating the problem and the remedy you want.
Contact a recognised alternative dispute resolution (ADR) scheme, if the dealer is a member.
Report the issue to Trading Standards, who can investigate unfair trading practices.
As a last resort, consider taking your case to the small claims court. This is often suitable for straightforward disputes involving sums up to £10,000 in England and Wales.
Further Guides and Resources
Understanding your rights as a buyer is crucial, especially if you’re purchasing a used vehicle or have encountered recurring problems. For more detailed information on related topics, you may find our section on car purchase issues helpful, as it covers broader legal considerations and common pitfalls. If you’re specifically dealing with a second-hand vehicle, our guide to used car purchase legal considerations provides tailored advice for buyers of pre-owned cars.
Know Your Rights Before You Buy
Taking the time to understand your legal protections before completing a car purchase can help you avoid many common problems. Always check the terms of sale, ask for written confirmation of any promises, and keep records of all communications with the dealer. Being informed means you’ll be better prepared to take action if something goes wrong.
If you need more guidance or want to explore your options further, don’t hesitate to use the resources above or seek independent legal advice.
