Council backs Staffordshire campaign helping used car buyers and sellers

Watch Anthony Screen give 5 top tips for buying a used car here

The ‘Stop Check Go’ campaign, running until Friday 3 October, is being delivered by the Central England Trading Standards Authorities. It aims to help both used car buyers make informed decisions and help traders meet their legal obligations. 

Complaints about used cars continue to be amongst the most frequent received by Citizens Advice and Trading Standards teams. These include misleading vehicle descriptions, false service history, incorrect mileage, undisclosed faults and a lack of understanding among traders of their legal responsibilities. 

The complaints show that clearer guidance for both buyers and sellers is needed, particularly for lower-income or older consumers, who are more likely to suffer financial loss.

Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Our aim is to give people confidence when purchasing a second-hand car, which is why we’re backing this regional campaign.

“By following some simple advice and choosing trustworthy dealers, motorists can avoid the usual risks and feel more reassured when they drive away with their new purchase.

“We’re also urging traders to follow the guidance offered to them. Knowing your legal obligations and keeping on the right side of the law will save you a lot of money and trouble.”

An issue that the campaign is highlighting is when traders pretend to be private sellers when advertising used vehicles. In these cases, the campaign advises consumers to check for the following warning signs:

• The seller has listed multiple cars recently

• They won’t give a full name or address

• They refuse to meet at home and offer delivery only

• The advert is vague or says things like “sold as seen”

For further advice or to report concerns, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 or visit Staffs Trading Standards Report It.