Mis-sold car

ILW

forgotmyname wrote: »

Being so long ago there is little you can do now. But a lesson for next time check the log book and see what power it has before buying.

I didn't know that log books recorded BHP.

motorguy

adsnalfs wrote: »

Please can anyone help with some advice?!

I was, unknowingly at the time, mis-sold a car back in March 2012 where i was catagorically told the car i bought was a particulr BHP engine (newer version), however i've renently found out its actually the older engine which has less BHP, so consequently holds less value on the resale so i'm therefore out of pocket! What rights do i have?! thanks!

FWIW unless it was a major revision or total facelift, your average job bloggs motor trader wont know or care about the difference to know to charge you less, and its unlikely that glass's guide will make a distinction.

maninthestreet

Splott wrote: »

There are some cars where if the badge with the BHP rating off the engine cover is missing it is almost impossible to tell which engine is in the vehicle so it may be a genuine mistake by the trader rather than an outright lie.

Can you tell us what car it is and how you found out?

As has been said, unless the advertisement or anywhere in writing mentioned the BHP then unless you asked and he gave you a different answer, which is almost impossible to prove, then it actually is as described.

You're not out of pocket as you've not sold it yet.

However I would put this to you. Other than the now known issue are you happy with it? Does it run fine? If so I would be inclined to carry on using it and enjoying it and not worry. Pursuing this by legal routes will most likely cost you as much if not more than the difference in the sale price with no guaranteed outcome.

And in regards to older vs newer engines, there are some cars where it is actually preferable to buy one with the older type of engine as the newer one has ended up having issues.

Not all cars have an engine with a visible BHP label on it.
The car manufacturer should be able to confirn the BHP of the engine originally fitted to the car, given the VIN number.

KTF

What age, make, model is it and when was it registered?

Manufacturers refresh their cars around spring time so it might have (for example) been built in early 2010 but registered summer 2010 which means it has a 'newer plate' but is built to an older spec.

Splott

maninthestreet wrote: »

Not all cars have an engine with a visible BHP label on it.
The car manufacturer should be able to confirn the BHP of the engine originally fitted to the car, given the VIN number.

I was thinking specifically of the MK3 Mondeo where there are two versions of the TDCi engine which are physically identical externally but there's a not that noticable 20BHP difference between the two variants.

Unless you knew that there were two different rated TDCi engines you wouldn't think to ask and even if you did, I doubt most buyers would have the presence of mind to do a VIN check with a local dealership.

steve-L

adsnalfs wrote: »

I know what i was told, however i suppose its my word against theirs! I'm hoping there is something on the invoice! Thanks.

You are 100% in your rights to pursue this if they told you specifically... HOWEVER ..... You will have a long and painful process to actually get the money back that is highly uncertain.

1) How much is the difference when you bought it?
If its £100 then you have a lot of hassle for a small potential gain.
2) As already said, its your word against theirs. You might check with trading standards (when you bought it) who have now been merged into CAB for this.... to see if this garage is known for similar things which would count in your favour... however with the switchover you might also find noone knows.....

Much as this is retrospective it really illustrates that you need to make sure everything is written on the invoice or elsewhere....

My experience of going through small claims would mean of this was me I'd chalk it up to experience unless you are talking over £1000 difference. Even then with your lack of written evidence I'd be wary of perusing.