Used cars still the OFT’s number one complaint

legal updates

A Consumer Direct spokesman suggested a number of reasons for many complaints is due to the sellers refusing to deal with legitimate complaints.

Read our disclaimer keyboard_arrow_down

This website content is intended as a general guide to law as it applies to the motor trade. Lawgistics has taken every effort to ensure that the contents are as accurate and up to date as at the date of first publication.

The laws and opinions expressed within this website may be varied as the law develops. As such we cannot accept liability for or the consequence of, any change of law, or official guidelines since publication or any misuse of the information provided.

The opinions in this website are based upon the experience of the authors and it must be recognised that only the courts and recognised tribunals can interpret the law with authority.

Examples given within the website are based on the experience of the authors and centre upon issues that commonly give rise to disputes. Each situation in practice will be different and may comprise several points commented upon.

If you have any doubt about the correct legal position you should seek further legal advice from Lawgistics or a suitably qualified solicitor. We cannot accept liability for your failure to take professional advice where it should reasonably be sought by a prudent person.

All characters are fictitious and should not be taken as referring to any person living or dead.

Use of this website shall be considered acceptance of the terms of the disclaimer presented above.

A recent report from the OFT, showed used cars were the number one topic of complaint by members of the public.

The figures show:

– Over 70% of complaints were about faults
– Over 13% were about misleading claims/omissions
– Approximately 7% were about poor services

A Consumer Direct spokesman suggested a number of reasons for many complaints is due to the sellers refusing to deal with legitimate complaints or provide appropriate compensation.

Whilst we acknowledge that the above reasons are an aspect to be considered, it must be viewed in context when customers have unrealistic expectation when buying a car made up of components which are at different levels of wear and may be approaching the point of failure.  Used cars mean worn cars. 

In the guidance provided by the OFT concerning the Consumer Protection for Unfair Trading Regulations it states for retailers:

“You should make your best efforts to find a satisfactory solution to complaints.  You need to ensure that the steps you take to satisfy the consumer are in accordance with reasonable expectations.”

We need clearer guidance from authorities with what those reasonable expectations from the consumer should be, rather than the legal jargon continuously issued.

WeRecruit Auto LtdPermanent Automotive Recruitment from an experienced and trustworthy recruitment partner.

We cover roles within all departments and sectors of the Automotive industry, and are here to listen to your specific needs and find the most suitable candidates to fit your business.

Dennis ChapmanIn remembrance of Dennis Chapman 1951 -2015Read More by this author

Related Legal Updates

Maintaining professionalism in customer disputes

Your emails may be presented to a judge for review to help decide on how you have handled the matter before the court’s involvement.

Assist your consumer… before it’s too late

If a consumer is ignored or refused assistance by you, and a repair is carried out, you will no longer be able to inspect the failed component.

Car sold with a fault

Ensure the consumer is aware, understands, and most importantly, accepts the vehicle is subject to fault.

What you pay for is what you get

The consumer presented our member with the bill because they wrongly thought they had the right to do what they wanted.

Customer reneges on agreed not distance sale

Our member explained they do not offer a delivery service and do not engage in distance selling.

Consumer “Handcuffed” by Deduction for Use Settlement

Don’t sign any contract unless you are fully aware of its terms!

Inspecting part-exchange vehicles

It is always a good idea to keep a paper trail for any transaction, especially in situations where representations are being made by a consumer.

Get in touch

Complete the form to get in touch or via our details below:

Phone
01480 455500
Address

Vinpenta House
High Causeway
Whittlesey
Peterborough
PE7 1AE

By submitting this quote you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.