Watchdog launches car buyers guide

[SPDAY]

The National Consumer Agency today launched car buyers guide for
consumers purchasing new and second hand cars. The Guide aims to
increase consumer awareness of their rights and issues that may
arise when buying car

The guide gives tips on checking the condition of the car,
performing background checks, payment options and legal rights
when purchasing a car

The checklist also includes a space for the garage to sign and
stamp, acting as proof of the details of the transaction in case
of any issue arising at a later date

Furthermore, it provides advice on the questions consumers should
ask in order to avoid being sold a defective or clocked car

Ann Fitzgerald, acting chief executive, National Consumer Agency
said, "While most car dealers are completely reputable, there are
some rogue operators out there. Any consumer purchasing a car
should be armed with the information in this guide and know how to
avoid being sold a lemon.

"Under consumer legislation it is an offence to mislead consumers
regarding a car's usage or prior history. The NCA takes a very
serious view of such practices as car clocking and prioritises
such investigations, as well as carrying out unannounced visits on
dealers. Our aim is to continue to stamp out such practices
through raising the awareness of consumers and empowering them to
identify these practices. We will also continue to work with the
industry and prosecute offences where we find them," she noted.

"Consumers should also be aware of their legal rights when
purchasing a car. Few people are aware that private sales are
generally not covered by consumer legislation, do not include a
guarantee and consumers cannot bring another consumer to the Small
Claims Court if something does go wrong. Therefore, the guide
offers tips on dealing with a private seller and, as there is no
obligation on a private seller to offer any information freely,
the types of questions one should ask."

http://www.consumerconnect.ie/eng/Ho...ying_a_car.pdf