Can I get a refund on a used car bought from a private seller?

I bought a Land Rover Defender 90 advertised as really clean inside and out with everything working has it should, with an MoT and no advisories. The car broke down in my second journey, failed an MoT retest miserably and an inspection by a Land Rover specialist shows a multitude of defects which make the car which un-roadworthy. What do I do?

Asked on 29 August 2024 by James Cook

Answered by David Ross

Your rights as a private buyer are reduced compared to buying from a dealer, as you only have recourse if the car was not described accurately in the advert or is unroadworthy. You can ask the seller for a full refund or a partial refund to reflect the actual condition of the vehicle, but assuming they will not agree to these options small claims court will be the only viable option. Evidencing that the vehicle was unroadworthy when you bought it is likely to be the best option as selling an unroadworthy vehicle is a criminal offence. You can read more about this here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/advice/car-buying-advice/how-.../

Tags: buying consumer rights private sellers

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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