Know Your Consumer Rights When Buying a Car

You can never tell what is going to happen to your car in the future. But as the car owner, you have legal rights in case something goes wrong with your vehicle. Buying a used or new car from an official dealership automatically gives you the protection of the Consumer Rights Act of 2015. However, the right that you have about a faulty vehicle will depend on the establishment where you bought it as well as the car’s description.

Buyers would have more legal protection if they decided to buy a Skoda from a certified dealer instead of a private seller. However, filing for a case can take time before you get the money. Not to mention, it can be expensive, too. So if you feel hesitant about the car or feel like the seller is shady, there are still several cars that you can choose.

What to do when there are problems with the car

If you notice any problems with the vehicle, you need to contact the dealer immediately. Never try to approach them aggressively and keep the conversation as professional as possible. If the dealership company offers to fix the problem, you need to ensure that you understand all the costs associated with it. You need to keep a record of everything that you have talked about as well. If there have been any verbal agreements done between both parties, then ask to have everything in writing. If the dealer cannot fix the issue, you can reject the car.

Since you have the protection under the Consumer Rights Act of 2015, you have a right to reject a faulty car. You are also entitled to receive a full refund within 30 days of purchase. But once the 30 days have passed, you will lose your right to reject any goods. Additionally, you will also have fewer rights and may even cause you to forfeit a full refund.

You should give the dealer detailed documentation of all the reasons why you are rejecting the car. You should submit it within six months of taking the car from them. If the dealer refuses to accept it, you need to contact the manufacturer’s customer service immediately so that they can mediate.

During your purchase at the dealership

car salesman handing over the key to the buyer

If you’re financing the car by getting a loan through a dealer, it is highly advisable to read the fine details of the contract. You should also be very careful when considering trade-in offers as well as the value of any additional features such as accessories. Saving copies of the sales agreement is a must, too. Doing so will help protect you if any problem arises. You should also keep copies of any other documentation related to your purchase.

Buying a car from a dealer has its pros and cons. The best way to protect yourself from any risk is to know as much as you can about consumer protection. You need to inspect all the minute details about the vehicle to minimise any chances of problems in the future.