Do I have any legal protection when buying a car privately?

I have seen a car advertised for sale. It’s the model I want and the price is right. I know I am supposed to get some protection if I buy from a dealer but this is a private seller. The car is described as in excellent condition and the seller says that everything works as it should. I don't expect everything to be perfect with a secondhand car, but do I have any protection of redress if I buy a car from a private member of the public, and then find that there is something wrong with my purchase?

Asked on 14 January 2012 by JW Cumbria

Answered by Honest John

No legal protection. You buy entirely at your own risk. All the car has to be is roadworthy. Everything else can be a lie. However, if the car is seriously ‘not as described’ and was less than £5000, you could try suing the vendor via the small claims track of the County Court.

Tags: buying legal advice

Dear Honest John,

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

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