Problem with 'trade sale' - Car not starting four days after sale.

I bought a Renault Clio (2002) DCi diesel with 59,000 miles on the clock from an independent dealer for £1,500 - at the higher end of valuations, in line with the low mileage.

The dealer said it was a trade sale and had no warranty and listed the faults as follows:

"It Does Have A Few Small Faults Hence Trade Sale Sunroof Has A Small Leak,A Few Small Scratches Made By window Wipers On Windscreen not in drivers Vision, Fan Belt Squeaks a Bit When Damp. Not A Great Deal To Do, Not Really Necessary I Would Just Use It NO OFFERS."

However, 4 days after buying it, it wouldn't start. Turns out that it needs a new altenator, new fan belt (because the altenator has been damaging it) and likely a new battery as well because it's not holding charge.

I've called the dealer to complain but he says its a trade only sale and I have no rights, however if the car wasn't fit for purpose then can I claim compensation for the repairs? I've been quoted circa £300 which I know isn't a great deal, but the car isn't worth a great deal in the first place?

Asked on 22 February 2013 by Kimcat

Answered by Honest John
I think this qualifies as a trader sale. He did make that plain.
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