Warning over traders' rights

"Given the huge financial; burden of buying a car- particularly at the moment - the Northern Ireland Trading Standards Service's campaign to make people aware of their rights when buying a used car from a dealer is very welcome.

"The fact that recent statistics from the Trading Standards advice service, Consumerline, suggest that complaints about second hand cars bought from dealers is on the increase, it is clear that this is an area of great concern.

"While we are sure that the vast majority if dealers are honest, fair, reputable and keen to ensure that their customers are satisfied with their purchase, there are always exceptions. Expensive faults, which are the dealer's obligation to correct, should not be left at the door of the customer. That is why it is so important to know your rights and the car dealers responsibilities,

Consumerline offers some excellent advice, particularly in relation to questions you should be asking of your car dealer."

The UUP representatives continued: " Find out the car's mechanical history and what mileage checks have been done, how many former owners the car has had and if it has full service history, Check if it has been modified or is ex-hire and, importantly ask for the answers to be put in writing."

"We would advise anyone thinking of buying a second hand car to visit www.consumerline.org to find out more. Better safe than sorry."