When you buy a used motor vehicle from a trader, you are making a legally binding contract, which is covered by the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Traders must not mislead you, perhaps by using phrases such as ‘sold as seen’ or ‘no refunds’, or by failing to disclose that the vehicle was previously damaged in an accident.
How can you find out about the history of a car you are thinking of buying?
CarFax is a leader in providing detailed VIN reports to would-be purchasers. Many reputable car dealerships provide CarFax reports for used-car purchases. You can also purchase a CarFax report yourself on their website if you’re buying directly from an owner or a dealership that doesn’t offer this service.
Does sold as seen mean anything?
‘Sold as seen’ generally means that a property is sold without knowledge of faults such as faulty boilers or damp patches. The seller does not have to tell you about any defects with the property because the buyer has bought the property under the principle of ‘caveat emptor’, which translates to let the buyer beware.
Can I check a cars history for free?
By performing a free vehicle enquiry, you can check the data held by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and ensure you meet these minimum requirements. Just enter your registration. Use the MOT check service to check the current MOT status of a vehicle.
Does sold as seen still apply?
As a trader, misleading consumers by using phrases such as “Trade Sale – Sold as Seen” or “No Refunds” is not only illegal but also completely voids the contract. The only occasion whereby this term could possibly be used, is for private sales.
Should you buy a car without service history?
Buying a used car without a full service history can save you money. However, it also means you won’t know whether the car has been properly maintained, and your car will be less desirable, so could be worth less, when you sell it on.
