There can be instances where your used cars have broken down just after you have purchased it. Do not curse yourself for this. It could have happened to any car, irrespective of the fact whether it is old or new. But yes, used cars are more prone to breaking down as they change hands more often than new ones.

Dealing With The Dealer

If your used car needs repair, you must find out, first of all, whether the car has any service contract or not. The dealer/ seller is supposed to give you the written warranty as soon as you buy the car. Once you have the contract, you must read over the terms and conditions thoroughly - the time limits, the cover available and the like. The warranty may suggest that the car needs to be brought to the dealer for repairs. But the dealer might refuse to repair the car if he can prove that the car owner is responsible for the damage caused to the used car.

Also if you have bought the car 'as is', then you cannot claim any repairing charges. The dealer might refuse to pay for the repairs based on the fact that there is no written obligation. However, if the dealer had made certain promises regarding the condition of the car, then those promises can at times be enforced. You must write a certified letter stating when you bought the car, what is the nature of the problem and why you feel that it is the dealer's duty to take care of the repairs. You need to consult your attorney on this issue.

If you think that the used car is giving you too much of a problem and you need to reject it, then you must stop using the car instantly and inform the dealer as soon as possible. If you still go on using it, law may believe that you have accepted the car. The sooner you discard the car, the better are your chances of getting a refund or a free repair.

The Sale of Goods Act protects you from all frauds. It mentions that any thing that is sold to you must be of good quality. It must be suited for the purpose and should be as described at the time of selling it. This is to say that the car has to be in the condition that you expect it to be. However, since you are buying a used car, then you need to take the age and mileage of the used car. You cannot expect it to run like a brand new model. Also, if the seller has already pointed out the defects to you at the time of selling, you cannot complain later.