How many chances does a dealer have to fix a used car under the CRA 2015?

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, a motor trader is generally allowed one attempt to repair a faulty used car. If that repair fails, or if a further fault emerges, the consumer can move directly to rejection or a price reduction.

What are my rights if a dealer's repair of a used car is unsuccessful?

If a used car repair fails, you can exercise your 'Final Right to Reject'. This allows you to return the vehicle for a refund or request a significant price reduction if you choose to keep it.

Who has to prove a car fault within the first six months of purchase?

If a fault is found within the first six months of purchase, the law assumes the fault was present at the time of delivery ('pre-existing'). The burden of proof lies with the dealer to show the car was not faulty when sold.

What legal standards must a used car meet under UK law?

To be legally compliant, a used car sold by a trader must be of satisfactory quality, fit for its intended purpose, and exactly as described in the advert or V5C logbook.

What is the 'Final Right to Reject' for used cars?

The 'Final Right to Reject' is a statutory right under the CRA 2015 that allows a buyer to return a vehicle for a refund after one failed repair attempt, or if the repair was not completed within a reasonable time.

Can a dealer deduct money for usage if I reject a car after a failed repair?

Yes, if you exercise your Final Right to Reject after the first 30 days but within the first six months, the dealer is entitled to make a 'fair use' deduction from your refund based on the mileage you have covered.

CRA 2015: What Happens After a Failed Used Car Repair in 2026?

In 2026, the second-hand car market remains a cornerstone of British motoring. However, even with advancements in vehicle diagnostics, many consumers still find themselves in a frustrating loop of mechanical failures and repeat visits to the garage. If you have bought a used car from a motor trader and a repair has failed to fix the problem, you are protected by one of the most robust pieces of consumer legislation in UK history: the Consumer Rights Act 2015 (CRA 2015).

Understanding your position is vital. When a repair fails, the law shifts the power balance from the dealer back to the consumer. This guide explores your statutory rights, the dealer’s legal obligations, and the specific steps you can take in 2026 to resolve the situation.

Your Consumer Rights: The "One Shot" Rule

When you purchase a used car from a trader, the CRA 2015 implies certain terms into your contract. The vehicle must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. If the car develops a fault within the first six months, the law assumes the fault was present at the time of delivery unless the dealer can prove otherwise.

The Right to Repair or Replacement

If you discover a fault within the first six months, your first port of call is usually the Right to Repair or Replacement. You must give the dealer one opportunity to fix the issue. Under the CRA 2015, this repair must be carried out within a reasonable time and without significant inconvenience to you.

The Final Right to Reject

This is the most critical protection for used car buyers in 2026. If the dealer attempts a repair and that repair fails, or if a new fault of a different nature develops, you are not legally required to give them a second chance.

According to the CRA 2015, after one failed repair attempt, you have the Final Right to Reject the vehicle. You can return the car and demand a refund. Alternatively, you may choose the Right to a Price Reduction, where you keep the vehicle but receive a partial refund to reflect its diminished value.

Section 75 and Section 99: Additional Protections

If you used car finance or a credit card to pay even a portion of the vehicle’s cost (between £100 and £30,000), you have additional layers of security:

Consumer Credit Act 1974, Section 75: The credit provider is "jointly and severally liable" with the dealer. If the dealer refuses to honour your CRA 2015 rights after a failed repair, you can claim your refund directly from the bank.
Consumer Credit Act 1974, Section 99: Often called "Voluntary Termination," this allows you to end a Hire Purchase (HP) or PCP agreement if you have paid back more than 50% of the total amount payable. While not a direct remedy for a failed repair, it is a vital exit strategy if a vehicle is becoming a financial burden.

Dealer and Trader Obligations

Under UK law, motor traders have strict responsibilities that they cannot "contract out" of. Even if a dealer provides a "3-month warranty" or "sold as seen" disclaimer (which is often illegal in a trade-to-consumer sale), your statutory rights under the CRA 2015 remain supreme.

The Burden of Proof

For the first six months after purchase, the burden of proof lies with the trader. If a repair fails, the dealer cannot simply claim you caused the fault through "wear and tear" without providing technical evidence. After six months, the burden shifts to you, the consumer, to prove the fault was inherent at the time of purchase.

Transparency and Fair Trading

The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (CPRs) prohibit traders from engaging in unfair commercial practices. This includes misleading omissions—such as failing to disclose a known recurring fault that they haven't been able to fix. If a dealer knowingly sells a car with a "masked" fault, they are in breach of the CPRs and may face action from Trading Standards.

Duty of Care and the Road Traffic Act 1988

Beyond consumer satisfaction, dealers have a criminal liability. Under Section 75 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is an offence to supply a motor vehicle in an unroadworthy condition. If a failed repair relates to safety-critical components (brakes, steering, tyres), the dealer's obligations extend beyond a simple refund into the realm of legal compliance and public safety.

Financial Services Oversight

Since most cars are sold with finance or insurance-backed warranties, dealers must also adhere to the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA). They must ensure that any financial products sold alongside the car are "fair, clear, and not misleading." If a dealer misrepresents a warranty as a replacement for your CRA 2015 rights, they are likely in breach of Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) rules.

What to Do After a Failed Repair

If your car is still faulty after the dealer has attempted to fix it, follow these steps to protect your legal position:

Stop Driving the Vehicle: Continued use can be interpreted as "accepting" the fault, and it may allow the dealer to deduct more from your refund for "usage."
Formal Notification: Send a formal letter or email to the dealer explicitly stating that you are exercising your Final Right to Reject under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 due to a failed repair.
Request a Refund: The dealer must provide a refund without undue delay, and certainly within 14 days of agreeing that a refund is due.
Usage Deductions: Be aware that the dealer is entitled to make a "deduction for use" if you have owned the car for more than 30 days. There is no set formula for this in the CRA 2015, but it must be a fair reflection of the mileage you have covered.
Involve the Finance Provider: If the car is on finance, do not just talk to the dealer. Contact the finance company immediately. They are the legal owners of the vehicle and are responsible for resolving the breach of contract.

Key Takeaways

The One-Repair Limit: Dealers generally get one attempt to fix a fault. If it fails, you can move to rejection.
The Six-Month Window: Your rights are strongest within the first six months of purchase.
Statutory over Warranty: Your CRA 2015 rights exist regardless of any private warranty or "guarantee" provided by the dealer.
Document Everything: Keep records of all repair receipts, diagnostic reports, and correspondence.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations are subject to change. If you are involved in a legal dispute, you should consult with a qualified legal professional or contact Citizens Advice.