Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Auto dealer fraud occurs when a car dealership or individual dealer intentionally misrepresents or withholds important information during the sale or leasing of a vehicle. In Norwich, United Kingdom, this type of fraud can include activities such as selling vehicles with undisclosed accident histories, winding back odometers, misrepresenting the condition or previous use of a vehicle, or including hidden fees without proper disclosure. If you feel you have been misled or deceived by a car dealer in Norwich, understanding your rights and the laws that protect you is essential.
Legal assistance can be crucial in several situations involving auto dealer fraud. Common scenarios where people require a lawyer include:
A lawyer can help you navigate complaints, negotiate with the dealer, and if necessary, take the matter to court or a tribunal to seek compensation or a remedy.
Several laws and regulations protect consumers in Norwich from auto dealer fraud. Key aspects include:
If auto dealer fraud occurs, you typically start by complaining directly to the dealer, then possibly escalate to a relevant ombudsman or seek legal action through the county court if other remedies have failed.
Any intentional misrepresentation or concealment of important facts, such as a false description of the car’s history, fraudulent mileage, or hidden vehicle problems, can be considered auto dealer fraud.
You can contact the dealer to request a repair, replacement, or refund under the Consumer Rights Act if the fault was present at the time of sale.
You can escalate your complaint to the Motor Ombudsman if the dealership is a member, or pursue legal action through the county court with the help of a solicitor.
You generally have up to 30 days from the date of purchase to reject a faulty car and request a full refund. After that, you may still request repair or replacement for up to six months, with further rights beyond that period depending on the circumstances.
The Motor Ombudsman is an independent dispute resolution body for the automotive industry in the UK. It oversees codes of practice and handles complaints when direct resolution fails.
Yes, you may be able to claim for costs directly resulting from the dealer’s fraud, such as repair costs, additional finance charges, or the difference in value between what you paid and the true value of the vehicle.
Consumer protections under the Consumer Rights Act do not apply to private sales, but you are protected if the seller misrepresents the vehicle or is untruthful, which may give rise to a claim under the Misrepresentation Act.
Keep all documentation, including adverts, the purchase agreement, receipts, emails, text messages, and photographs of the vehicle’s condition. Evidence of misrepresentation or fault greatly supports your claim.
Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to a full or partial refund, a replacement car, a repair, or compensation. The remedy depends on the severity and timing of the issue.
Before accepting any settlement, seek independent legal advice to ensure it is fair and covers all your losses. Settlements may include clauses waiving further claims, so it is crucial to understand what you are agreeing to.
If you need more support or information, these organisations can be helpful:
If you believe you are a victim of auto dealer fraud in Norwich, begin by collecting all correspondence and documents related to your purchase. Contact the dealer to try and resolve the issue. If this does not work, raise your case with the Motor Ombudsman if applicable, or consult Norwich Trading Standards for further help. For complex or unresolved cases, seek advice from a solicitor who specialises in consumer law and vehicle disputes. Acting quickly improves your chances of a successful resolution and ensures you protect your legal rights.
