Castelnaudary. ASSECO’s consumer corner: second-hand

How to avoid being scammed when buying a used vehicle.

Buying a used vehicle is a project that comes true either after saving money or taking out a mortgage, but which can quickly turn into a nightmare.

Whether it is a private individual or a garage, you must take the maximum precautions and do not sign if you have the slightest doubt.

Before the purchase is the identification mission

You must examine the vehicle before any engagement. Check bodywork, tyres, engine, interior. Then test items like seat belts, air conditioning, wipers, turn signals, etc. In more detail, check that the chassis number engraved on the bodywork is not archived and that it is identical to that on the gray tag. Note the odometer reading. You’ll want to test drive the car but if the seller refuses, there’s a problem.

Mandatory viewing:

At a professional, there must be labeling on the vehicles for sale with the mandatory information which is the make, type of vehicle or even the model variant, the month and year of first entry into circulation, the model, the version and mileage. To this is added the selling price inclusive of VAT, excluding registration costs and matriculation taxes. These details must appear on the order form/delivery note/invoice that will be delivered to you. With a private individual, the latter must also have a poster affixed to the vehicle for sale with the same mentions. If necessary, this information must be found in the sales document delivered to the buyer during the transaction.

What documents to obtain during the transaction?

It is absolutely necessary to carefully examine all documents whether it is an individual or a professional. If you buy from a professional: invoice including the above elements, delivery term and financing arrangements / technical inspection less than six months old / certificate of declaration of assignment / certificate of pledge or non-pledge less than one month old / gray tag crossed out and signed by the seller with the words “sold or sold on…”.

If you buy from a private individual: apart from the invoice which he won’t be able to establish, you need the same documents.

In both cases, remember to request the coupon book and invoices and keep a copy of the advertisement in case of misleading advertisement.

If you pay by cash, you must be given a receipt.

No limit for cash payment between individuals but a written document over €1,500 is required to prove the transaction.

On the other hand, it is limited to 1,000 euros from private individual to professional.

How to register?

You have one month to register the vehicle in your name and the seller must make the declaration of transfer within 15 days. Either you do it via the ANTS website or by going to a Maison France Services or an association that will help you with the procedures.

Bankruptcy after the purchase?

The legal guarantee of conformity covers lack of conformity and allows you to ask the seller to repair or replace the goods. It can be activated for a period of 2 years. During the first year you are not required to provide proof that the defect existed prior to the purchase of the property, but beyond the 1st year it is up to you to prove that such a defect existed prior to the sale.

The commercial guarantee which covers certain defects and defective parts for a limited period. This must be on the purchase order/invoice.

Here are some elements and advice that will allow you to acquire your property in complete safety. We’ll see you next month for another topic: optional commercial guarantees.