Anyone looking for where to selling my car has two main options; private buyers and dealers. A dealer is considered a business and won’t likely request a refund for bought vehicles. Private buyers purchase the car “as is” but may request a refund if they’re unhappy after the sale. If a buyer is unhappy, it’s upon them to determine the right course of action. The seller can then choose to refund the buyer and take back ownership of the car or let the court decide.
3 Reasons Why a Private Car Buyer May Be Unhappy
If a buyer is unhappy with the car they bought, they can request a refund from the seller. The seller is not bound by any laws to refund the buyer, provided the sale was legitimate and according to existing laws. If there’s genuine discontent, both parties should resolve it together. Here are three examples of genuine discontent from buyers:
1. Unreported Car Faults
If the seller knows about a problem with their car and doesn’t inform the buyer, the buyer can request a refund. Car sellers should notify the buyer of all issues, including known faults, wear and tear and previous accidents. The seller isn’t responsible for reporting unknown issues.
2. Unfixed Car Problems
Car sellers should allow the buyer to get the vehicle professionally checked before the sale. Private buyers purchase the car “as is,” implying no warranty. If the professional check reveals issues, they may request the seller complete the necessary repairs. If the seller doesn’t obey the request, the buyer may request a refund if the issues weren’t fixed.
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3. Unpaid Debts/Fines
Car sellers should clear any fines, debts, and fees owed on the car. The seller can also arrange for the sale proceeds to cover unpaid debts and fines. If the seller doesn’t clear such obligations, the buyer can request they do so. Some buyers may also request a refund claiming fraud, and they’re within their rights to return the car.
Car Seller Responsibilities
Unhappy buyers can contact the seller to air their discontent. If the discontent is genuine, sellers should work with the buyer to resolve the issues. Car sellers should follow all protocols when selling to avoid future problems with the buyers. The primary responsibilities of a seller include the following:
- Answer all questions honestly
- Inform the buyer of any faults, accidents, and known issues,
- Fix problems agreed upon
- Clear fines and debts owned on the car
- Allow the buyer to examine the car
- Fill out the change of ownership forms
- Acquire a Warrant of Fitness (WoF)
The car doesn’t need to be of good quality before the sale, provided all information presented to the buyer is accurate. Any misleading information will leave the seller liable for fraud and a refund if the seller goes to court. However, the seller doesn’t have to agree to any demands if they believe the sale was responsible and fair.
What If the Buyer Sues?
Private buyers generally have limited rights because the vehicle is sold “as is” without warranty unless stated in the contract. Purchasing a car “as is” means the buyer accepts the vehicle with all known and unknown issues. In such sales, the seller is off the hook, and all car issues become the buyer’s responsibility. The only exception is if the seller wasn’t honest about the conditions of the car, in which case the buyer may make a fraud argument.
If the buyer files a lawsuit in a small claims court, both parties will have their opportunity in front of a judge. The court will hear the claim and come up with a binding decision. Sellers shouldn’t be concerned about getting sued if they were responsible. Sellers are generally safe if they are honest and their car passes the emissions test. If the sale was irresponsible, the seller might have to refund or fix the vehicle as ordered by the court.
What to Do If the Buyer Is Unhappy
Unhappy car buyers can request a refund, discount, or service if there’s an issue with the vehicle. However, sellers don’t need to do anything if they are responsible. Private car sellers have the opportunity to do due diligence and identify any issues before the title exchanges hands. After the sale, they have minimal rights and can’t force sellers to refund or pay for issues determined later on. Sellers are also not responsible for unknown problems.
If a buyer is unhappy after purchasing the car, they have the right to make a civil claim or request a refund. However, the seller isn’t bound to do anything unless they were dishonest or sold a car that doesn’t pass the emission test. Therefore, car sellers should ensure all information is accurate and follow the legal requirements to avoid future liability. If the seller was dishonest, they could resolve the car issues with the buyer without going to court.
Where to Sell My Car without Buyer Issues
If you’re looking for where to sell my car, a reputable dealer can eliminate the issue of unhappy buyers. Dealers that buy used vehicles often complete necessary checks to determine any underlying problems before the purchase. After the sale, dealers won’t come back to claim a refund because they agreed to purchase the car “as is.” Just make sure you’re responsible and allow the buyers to complete professional checks.