Rights When Buying a Car Online

There are a large number of websites that offer cars for sale. From brokers, to dealerships, new and second hand cars, and private advertisements on listings websites and auctions such as Ebay there is a bewildering selection of websites and online services from which you can buy a new or used car. So what should you know about buying a car on the Internet?
Benefits of Advertising Online
The Internet offers a method of advertising that, pound for pound, may be cheaper than advertising in a trade magazine as well as allowing for a more indepth description. This is undoubtedly beneficial for genuine and reputable sellers. However, before you bid or make an offer it is highly advisable to study all the photographs intently and to email the seller to ask any questions if you are unsure of anything.Private Seller v Trader
In terms of your rights, there is a significant distinction between buying a car from a private seller or from a trader. Buying from a trader gives you more significant legal protection as they must comply with the requirements to sell you a car that is ‘fit for purpose’, ‘as described’ and ‘of satisfactory quality.’ If you buy from a private individual, the car only needs to be sold ‘as described.’Conversely, if you buy a car online from a business you will be covered by the Consumer Contract Regulations. This means that you can complete the contract online, but that you will have a right to cancel this contract within the cooling off period, which is seven working days. However, this does not mean that you can buy a car online, drive it like a rally car incessantly for five days and then send it back for a full refund: you must only use the car ‘reasonably’ while it is in your possession.
Re: Your Rights When Using Internet Auction Websites
Excellent write-up, I have always enjoyed your articles, you’re such an excellent writer, always on…
Re: Buying a Holiday Online: Consumer Rights, Cancellations, Refunds and Complaints
My Wife booked a Love Holiday to Spain for July 2024 for a party…
Re: Buying from Overseas Sellers Online: Do Your UK Consumer Rights Apply?
I have ordered a dress from Hebeos (didn't know at the time they were based…
Re: Buying Tickets Online: Consumer Rights, Cancellations, Refunds and Complaints
I purchased 2 tickets on viagogo. Put them for sale then few…
Re: How PayPal and Worldpay Work
Can I receive money through my PayPal account? Or how can I receive money through my paypal account?
Re: Buying a Holiday Online: Consumer Rights, Cancellations, Refunds and Complaints
I’ve booked a holiday let in France for a week but cancelled…
Re: How PayPal and Worldpay Work
I have not received any pension payments for three months now, what is the position ?
Re: Buying Tickets Online: Consumer Rights, Cancellations, Refunds and Complaints
Purchased through viagogo 8 months later was told the tickets were…
Re: Buying Clothing Online: Consumer Rights, Refunds and Returning Clothing Items
Hi I sent back 2 items to Zara via Everi. Zara contacted me to say…
Re: Misleading Advertising and Online Shopping
Every person in the UK should steer clear of Vrbo Online Booking agent. The are totally corrupt and should be…