Returning your Figaro

If you buy a Figaro you’re unhappy with, there are legal rights which you can employ for a happy outcome.

If you’re not happy with the car or the service you have received, there are a few golden rules:

• Inform the seller in writing as soon as possible if you are planning to reject the car – after six months of ownership it can be harder to claim.
• Keep copies of all written correspondence and document any verbal conversations, keeping records of the time, date and who you spoke to.
• Keep a copy of the original advert.
• Take photos of any damage or incidents resulting from damage.
• Refusal to pay the finance company may result in the repossession of the vehicle or harm to your credit rating. Inform the lender of your grievance immediately and include them in all correspondence.
• The price paid will inform how ‘perfect’ you can expect a car to be – a £10,000 Figaro should be in excellent condition, but a £3,000 Fig is likely to show certain amounts of wear and tear.
• Negotiate with the seller for a partial refund or other goods or services which may be suitable compensation.
• Court cases can be pursued in the small claims court for a minimal cost if your claim is less than £5,000, although losing the action could mean paying the other party’s costs.
• Cases involving sums over £5,000 will be directed to the county court, which can cost far more to pursue.
• Organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureaux can offer free advice.

Disputes with a car dealer

Buying from a dealer is the safest way to buy a Figaro as you’re protected by the Sale of Goods Act 1979. The car must be of satisfactory quality, taking into account how it was described for sale.

Disputes with a private car seller

Buying from a private seller means you’re not covered by any specific laws other than those relating to the legal right to sell goods. As such, it’s important to make thorough checks.

At the very least, you should:

• Expect the Figaro to be sold as described by the seller.
• Ensure the seller has the legal right to sell the car.
• Ensure you get the seller’s landline telephone number and home address.
• Prepare a receipt and ensure both you and the seller keep a copy.

Disputes with buying at auction

Buying a car at auction provides little legal protection, unless it can be proved the auctioneer or auction house mislead you about the car.