Cheap trick

An elderly friend bought within the last few months from a recognised retailer a Vauxhall Vectra for £1,400. The car has now had to be taken to the workshops for a reconditioned gearbox at a cost of about £1,000. May I know please if there is a case to be made against the retailer and, if so, is it a matter that the Small Claims court would be likely to take up on my friends behalf?

Asked on 14 August 2010 by DS, Seaford,

Answered by Honest John

I think the car was too cheap for him to expect a refund, though a
contribution to the cost may be in order. In law your friend is obliged to take the matter up with the trader first and offer him the opportunity to fix the gearbox or refund then purchase price. Though it is not reasonable to expect a car bought for less than a tenth of its new price to be perfect. Law here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights

Tags: consumer rights gearboxes dealers owning small claims court

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