Exchange is a robbery

I have bought a car for £1,500 and part-exchanged my car. The newer car is a junk. The head gasket has gone and will cost £800. The private dealer basically told me to get lost. Help.

Asked on 22 May 2010 by M.U., via e-mail

Answered by Honest John
These are your consumer rights, and some links to legal specialists: www.honestjohn.co.uk/faq/consumer-rights If he won't oblige, take the matter to the small claims track of the county court. But if he's an itinerant with no fixed assets, even if you win your case you won't be able to get anything out of him. Only sue if you can see he has assets, such as a house.
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
    Select a few terms below
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