Buying a car, whether new or used, can become a source of anxiety for motorists. The fear of coming across a hidden defect haunts many buyers, especially when faced with defects invisible at first glance. Defective engine, capricious gearbox or hidden corrosion: these problems, often discovered too late, can quickly become costly. This fear is all the more present when buying from an individual, where recourse is sometimes complicated. Hence the importance of remaining vigilant and, if possible, finding out in advance about your rights as a consumer.
On this subject, there is a particular guarantee that few people know about and which can be very useful in the event of hidden defects. Indeed, in the Capital show on January 5, “Energy, car, housing: how to benefit from falling prices? broadcast on M6, Maître Eric de Caumont explains that “all cars are guaranteed for life”. “If you buy a used car and after three years you discover a very big problem, a hidden defect which had not been revealed until now, you have two years to attack your mechanic” or the individual who sold you your vehicle, he explains. In other words, this protection is not triggered at the time of purchase, but from the moment you notice the defect.
Why is it important to use it? Because the guarantee against hidden defects “allows you to obtain a total or partial refund of your purchase and compensation in the event of damage”, indicates the Public Service website. Which is significant in certain situations. To take advantage of this famous guarantee, three conditions must be met above all: the defect must not be visible at the time of purchase (hidden defect), it must render the vehicle unusable or significantly reduce its use, and above all the problem in question must exist at time of purchase. If these conditions are met, it is up to the car owner to then prove the existence of the hidden defect using detailed certificates or repair quotes. You can also seek the advice of an expert by carrying out an amicable assessment, we can read on the authorities’ website.
Once all the elements have been collected, simply send a letter by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt to the seller or mechanic. This letter must include the type of compensation desired as well as supporting documents (delivery note, quote, etc.). On the other hand, you should know that this legal protection does not concern “normal” wear and tear of the car. If you want to keep your vehicle as long as possible, it’s up to you to maintain it.