More Rights for Car buyers
Heres a copy of the article (boy I wish I had character recognition or a scanner).
More Rights for car buyers
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Car buyers will get more protection under the law if they buy a faulty car, thanks to new European legilisation coming into force in March.
Until now, buyers suffering faults with their cars had to prove the fault existed before they took delivery in order to get a refund or replacement.
But under the new laws, the onus of proof falls on the seller within the first six months of ownership.
The new European directive is called the Sale of Consumer Goods and Associated Guarantees, and it applies to the sale of new and used cars from garages, but not private or auction sales.
It means that vendors are responsible for making sure thier goods meet quality standards and descriptions given in adverts - and for correcting problems.
New cars are covered for two years, whereas used cars are covered for one year.
This will make it easier for buyers to demand repairs, reject the car or ask for a full refund, according to What Car's legal expert Alastair Greeer of RAC Legal services.
'Before this legilisation arrived buyers could only reject an unsatifactory car within two to three weeks of sale', he said 'If they waited any longer, their case would not hold up to the law'.
'Under the new legislation, these rights apply for the first six months on a new car. That's a substantial advantage for buyers and more consumers should be able to get their money back'.
However, the tough new laws are also likely to discourage garages from selling older cars and may force up forecourt prices as dealers seek to protect themselves from more frequent and expensive claims.
'Because dealers may now have to offer independent inspections and warranties on older cars in order to ensure their stock is up to scratch, prices could rise to
help cover these costs,' warned John Coates, What Car's user car expert.
Which says 'This will provide more protection to car buyers. Quote the directive if you are unhappy with your purchase.
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