20 June 2007

Car buying guide launched

The National Consumer Agency has launched ‘A Guide to Buying a Car’ for consumers purchasing new and second hand cars.

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The Guide aims to increase consumer awareness of their rights and issues that may arise when buying cars.

buyingguide.jpgIt gives tips on checking the condition of the car, performing background checks, payment options and legal rights when purchasing a car. It also includes a comprehensive checklist for consumers to use when buying a vehicle.

It is an offence to mislead consumers regarding a car’s usage or prior history but few people are aware that private sales are generally not covered by consumer legislation. 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.

Copies of the booklet are available through the NCA website or by contacting their helpline 1890 432 432. BB.