Hidden defects: How to protect yourself when buying a used car!

Hidden defects: How to protect yourself when buying a used car!

In 2024, an impressive 820,629 used cars were approved in Austria. But behind the purchase of a used car, an unpleasant surprise can often hide. Many vehicles have hidden defects that are hardly recognizable for laypersons. Nikolaus Authried, the head of ÖAMTC legal advice, urgently warns of possible cost traps when buying used cars. The ÖAMTC legal advice regularly receives inquiries from buyers who are subsequently faced with problems with hidden defects. In many cases, the process is difficult to clarify these problems and often requires a walk to the court.

warranty and its limits

The warranty period is basically two years after the vehicle is handed over. When selling to companies, there is an option, but not if the buyer is a private individual. In the case of vehicles that are more than a year old, the warranty period can be shortened to one year, as described in information from WKO [WKO]. This means that buyers in older used cars should check particularly carefully for defects.

A competition of this kind can also be associated with considerable risks. Sellers should ensure that no misleading information is given in the purchase contract and that all previous damage is clearly documented. The addition "How visited and driven" is no valid to exclude the warranty. It is also important that buyers act immediately in the event of defects found to assert their claims.

tips for buying used cars

In order to avoid expensive mistakes, experts give numerous tips, especially the execution of a purchase test. Such a check-up is recommended by experienced experts and can help uncover hidden defects. Important aspects such as the technical condition of the engine, the drive train or the chassis systems should be checked by an expert. For private sales transactions, a sample contract, as the ÖAMTC [ÖAMTC] provides it, is recommended. Oral commitments should always be recorded in writing.

In the case of technical defects after purchase, legal advice should be obtained. Such reinsurance can not only help to avoid trouble, but also to enforce claims for warranty. Especially if sellers indicate the operating and traffic safety of the vehicle, they are obliged to ensure that no hidden defects affect the "Pickerl" check carried out. In this sense, it is advisable to record all the notes and identified defects in writing. In the event of disputes, documents can be used as evidence.

buyers should always be aware of the risks and document all given information. Careful procedure can be avoided that a supposed bargain becomes a cost -intensive affair. Ultimately, the acquired vehicle is supposed to give pleasure, not become a cost trap, which impressively underline the warnings of experts like Nikolaus Authried.

In summary, it can be said that the purchase of used car offers many advantages, but numerous legal and technical pitfalls that have to be considered.