What rights do I have for a car bought from a private seller?

I bought a Vauxhall Astra 2011 car from a private seller, who mentioned in the advert, verbally, and on WhatsApp that it was in good condition. I was allowed to test drive only for <10 minutes, which was fine. The car looked perfect for its age and I went ahead with the sale. However, just after I got home, it started to make noises and blow a lot of smoke through the exhaust. I took it to the garage and the guy said it might need an engine repair and it will fail the next MoT which is due in Jan 2025. I contacted the seller and he is adamant that "the consumer laws do not cover a private seller" so it is on me.

I want to ask is there anything I can do, perhaps small court claims?

Asked on 9 August 2024 by Sami Ullah

Answered by David Ross

Your consumer rights when making a car purchase are considerably reduced in a private sale compared to buying from a dealer. You only have recourse if the vehicle was not described accurately or was unroadworthy. You could take the seller to small claims court, but you would need to provide evidence that the vehicle was not as described or unroadworthy.

Tags: used cars consumer rights private sellers

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