Car Insurance
Used cars cause problems
Fri, 09 Sep 2005
Choosing a second-hand car could be false economy – second-hand vehicles generate more complaints to a government consumer helpline than any other goods, research has shown.
According to an investigation by What Car?, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)'s Consumer Direct helpline has received just over 12,000 complaints about used cars bought from independent garages since it was launched one year ago.
Another 4,965 complaints were lodged about second-hand cars bought at franchised dealerships, according to the magazine.
Complaints received concerned areas such as electrical problems, damage to paintwork and buyers failing to understand financial agreements.
A DTI spokesman said: "It's been a good first year for the helpline. We've been able to offer thousands of consumers support and expert advice from fully trained experts, and hope to continue doing so over the coming years."
Car repairs and servicing formed the basis of 4,723 complaints received by Consumer Direct in the last 12 months – revealing the importance of comprehensive car insurance cover for used vehicles.
© Adfero Ltd
