Can I reject a brand new car?
I bought a brand new PHEV on a PCP and took delivery last week. After 3 days it would not start. A recovery company came out and told me the 12 volt battery was completely drained. They got it started and I took it to the dealers. They replaced the battery but told me the dashboard computer was the problem and to leave the car with them to have a look at it. After 3 days without the car, I got it back but the next day again it would not start. I have lost all faith in this vehicle and suspect it is going to be a lemon. I want to reject the car before the 14 days expire - what are my rights.
Asked on 12 August 2025 by Barnie73
Answered by
David Ross
The 2015 Consumer Rights Act gives you the statutory right to reject a new or used car (or anything else) within 30 days of purchase if your rights have been breached. This is called the short term 'right to reject'. It covers faults that were present - or developing - when you bought it, or it was received in a condition that does not match what you were told.
You have given the dealer an opportunity to repair which has apparently failed, so you can inform them that you wish to reject the vehicle. If they fail to respond or refuse write a letter to your point of contact at the dealership as well as the dealer principal and send it via Special Delivery, as this then becomes a matter of record. If this does not get the process started you can take your complaint to Trading Standards. Your rights are against the supplier - which is the dealer (and the finance company jointly if you bought it on finance) - rather than the manufacturer.
You can read our guide to rejecting a vehicle here www.honestjohn.co.uk/advice/car-buying-advice/how-.../
You have given the dealer an opportunity to repair which has apparently failed, so you can inform them that you wish to reject the vehicle. If they fail to respond or refuse write a letter to your point of contact at the dealership as well as the dealer principal and send it via Special Delivery, as this then becomes a matter of record. If this does not get the process started you can take your complaint to Trading Standards. Your rights are against the supplier - which is the dealer (and the finance company jointly if you bought it on finance) - rather than the manufacturer.
You can read our guide to rejecting a vehicle here www.honestjohn.co.uk/advice/car-buying-advice/how-.../
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