What are my rights if a car I bought in South Africa has more mechanical problems than disclosed?

Question from Joe, What are my rights if a car I bought in South Africa has more mechanical problems than disclosed?

Answer from AI:

In South Africa, the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) provides certain protections for consumers who purchase goods, including used cars, that turn out to be defective or not as described.

Your Rights Under the Consumer Protection Act

Under the CPA, consumers have the right to receive goods that:

• Comply with the standards set under the Act
• Are of good quality, in good working order and free of any defects
• Will be usable and durable for a reasonable period of time
• Comply with any applicable standards set under the Standards Act, 1993 (Act No. 29 of 1993), or any other public regulation

If the car you bought does not meet these standards, you may have the right to return it, have it repaired or replaced, or get a refund.

Steps to Take

If you believe the car you bought from ‘We Buy Cars’ has more mechanical problems than they informed you about, you could:

1. Contact the company directly and explain the situation. It’s best to do this in writing so you have a record of your communication.
2. If the company does not resolve the issue to your satisfaction, you can lodge a complaint with the National Consumer Commission (NCC). The NCC is the regulatory body responsible for enforcing the CPA.
3. If the NCC cannot resolve your complaint, you may need to take legal action. This could involve taking the matter to the Consumer Court or to a civil court.

Remember, it’s important to act quickly. The CPA gives you a six-month warranty on products, but this does not cover problems caused by normal wear and tear or damage you caused after buying the car.

When to Seek Legal Advice

If you’re unsure about your rights or the best course of action, it may be helpful to consult with a legal professional. A lawyer can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help you understand the legal process.

For more information on your rights under the CPA, you can visit the South African Government’s website. To lodge a complaint with the NCC, you can visit the NCC’s website.

Please note that this information is intended to provide a general understanding of the law. It is not intended to provide legal advice. Always consult with a legal professional for advice on your specific situation.