A faulty car bought from a dealer is one of the most stressful consumer problems — and one of the most expensive. The good news is that the Consumer Rights Act 2015 applies to used vehicles bought from traders, not just new cars.
This guide explains when you can reject a car for a full refund, and how to complain effectively.
Your Rights When a Car Is Faulty
A car from a dealer must be:
- Of satisfactory quality — no serious defects for its age and mileage
- Fit for purpose — roadworthy and suitable for normal use
- As described — matching the advert and what you were told
The 30-day short-term right to reject still applies to used cars in many cases — if a serious fault appears, you may reject for a full refund without accepting a repair first.
After 30 Days
The dealer may offer repair or replacement first. If that fails, or the fault is serious enough, you can still pursue a partial or full refund.
| Timeframe | Typical position |
|---|---|
| Within 30 days | Strong right to reject for full refund |
| After 30 days | Repair first, then refund if repair fails |
| Within 6 months | Fault assumed present at sale unless dealer proves otherwise |
Step-by-Step: Faulty Car Refund
- Stop driving if unsafe — but keep reasonable test use documented.
- Get an independent inspection — garage report is powerful evidence.
- Notify the dealer in writing — reject the vehicle or request refund.
- Return the car as arranged — keep collection/delivery records.
- Escalate — finance provider (Section 75), chargeback, or court.
High-value claims need a clear step-by-step plan and evidence bundle
What to Put in Your Complaint Letter
- Your name, address, and contact details
- Vehicle details, purchase date, and price paid
- Description of the fault and when it appeared
- Independent inspection report (if available)
- Clear statement that you are rejecting the vehicle
- Full refund amount requested to your original payment method
- A 14-day deadline and your escalation route
A formal rejection letter under the Consumer Rights Act 2015
Common Dealer Pushbacks
| Dealer says | Your response |
|---|---|
| "It's wear and tear" | Serious faults shortly after sale are not normal wear |
| "We'll only repair" | Within 30 days you can reject; after, repair may come first |
| "You must use our garage" | You can get independent evidence |
| "Sold as seen" | Traders cannot exclude statutory rights |
Paid on Finance?
If you used car finance, contact the finance company about Section 75 or your finance agreement remedies — the dealer and lender may both have responsibilities.
Using Refundly for Faulty Vehicle Claims
Refundly helps you structure high-value disputes:
- Select the relevant goods or service category
- See Consumer Rights Act remedies
- Build your evidence timeline
- Generate a formal complaint or rejection letter
Final Tip
Act within 30 days of discovering a serious fault if you want the strongest rejection rights. Document the fault with photos and an independent inspection as soon as possible.