Faulty Car After Purchase? Know Your Consumer Rights UK

Buying a car—whether it’s a brand-new model or a used vehicle—should be an exciting milestone. But when it is faulty, it can quickly turn into a costly and frustrating ordeal. Before I became a solicitor, I experienced this first-hand—caught out by a dodgy second-hand car dealer and wrongly assuming I had no legal recourse. The result? A string of expensive repairs and a vehicle I no longer enjoyed driving.

Fortunately, the law in England and Wales offers strong protections for consumers. If you have bought a car from a dealer or car trader (not a private seller), your rights are clearly outlined under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. These rights apply whether you’re buying a new or second-hand car, and they can help you get your money back or a repair when things go wrong.

At Hibberts, we regularly advise clients who experience car problems within weeks—or even days—of leaving the dealership. Here’s what you need to know about your rights in the first year of car ownership, and how we can help if your car dealer is not cooperating.

The First 30 Days: Your Right to Reject a Faulty Car

Under the Consumer Rights Act, you have a short-term right to reject a faulty vehicle within the first 30 days of purchase if it turns out to be faulty. This means you may be entitled to a full refund if the car:

• Isn’t of satisfactory quality
• Is not fit for purpose
• Wasn’t as described by the seller

Common issues include mechanical problems, electrical faults, or undisclosed damage. If your new or used car breaks down shortly after purchase, or you discover it doesn’t match the listing or verbal representations, you don’t have to accept a repair—you can reject the car and get your money back.

It is important to note that you can only reject a vehicle if there is an actual fault or misrepresentation. Disliking the car or changing your mind is not enough under the law.

We know returning a vehicle can be stressful, but acting quickly is key. Your rejection must be in writing, and we can help you draft a legally sound letter to the dealer.

After 30 Days: Repairs, Replacements, and Partial Refunds

If a problem arises after 30 days but within six months of buying the car, you still have strong consumer protections. The law presumes that the fault was present at the time of sale—unless the trader can prove otherwise. This is a powerful shift: it puts the burden of proof on the dealership, not you. Your rights at this stage include:

• A free repair or replacement
• If repair or replacement fails (or is not offered quickly), you may claim a partial refund or reject the car altogether

Some traders may try to delay or deny your rights, but this does not mean you’re powerless. We frequently support clients in holding dealerships accountable and making sure their rights are upheld.

How the Hibberts Team Can Help With Faulty Car Disputes

Navigating the legal process when buying a faulty car can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re looking to reject a car, get a refund, or resolve a dispute with a reluctant car dealer, our litigation team [link] is here to support you. We offer:

• Clear legal advice tailored to your situation
• Help drafting rejection letters or formal complaints
• Guidance on court claims if the dealer refuses to cooperate

Know Your Consumer Rights When Buying a Car

If your car purchase has gone wrong, don’t assume you’re stuck with the consequences. Whether you’re driving a brand-new vehicle or a second-hand bargain, the law is on your side—especially if you act quickly and assert your rights.

If you have been sold a faulty car by a trader, get in touch today to see how we can help you get the outcome you deserve. To speak to a member of our team please call 01270 624225 or email en*******@******ts.com