9:06 am, October 5, 2015
MOTORISTS can return faulty vehicles within 30 days due to the Consumer Rights Act that came into force from the beginning of this month.
The new Act, which affects the whole of the retail sector, requires the supplier to refund the purchase cost without the chance to correct any imperfection.
However, motorists have to demonstrate that their car has either an issue, is not as described or of substandard quality. They then have to prove that the fault was apparent at the point of sale, which of course can be difficult.
After the initial 30 days, the supplier has six months – and one chance – to correct the problem. Repair work can either be covered by a third party or in-house warranty. If the correction is not satisfactory, or a further issue occurs, the customer can ask for a full refund or a part refund that allows for wear and tear. If an arrangement cannot be made, then consultation of an ombudsman is available.
Government consumer affairs minister Jo Swinson said earlier this year: ‘For too long consumers and businesses have struggled to understand the complicated rules that apply when buying goods and services.
‘That is why the Consumer Rights Act is so important in setting out clear and updated consumer rights for goods, services and for the first time digital content.’
The timing of the Act is of particular interest following the emissions scandal that threatens to overwhelm the Volkswagen Group. Exactly how it will affect proceedings is not yet known.
