Dodgy Dealers Fined Over £528,000 in Raids

Dodgy car dealers have had to fork out more than £528,000 after being raided by trading standards.

Officers in West Berkshire and Bracknell say 118 consumers have secured refunds, repairs or other remedies worth more than £260,000. A further £268,200 was refunded to people who bought vehicles from one of three traders under investigation for repeatedly selling faulty cars.

Those cash recoveries came from Operation Tabitha, a Public Protection Partnership initiative to promote compliance with the Consumer Rights Act 2015, tackle poor trading practices and reduce consumer detriment.

Since March 2024 trading standards officers have given guidance to 112 vehicle traders across the area and visited more than half to check legal responsibilities and sales practices.

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 vehicles sold by a trader must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, as described and free from fault.

Buyers have the right to reject a faulty vehicle within 30 days for a full refund, or to request a free repair or replacement within the first six months. Traders cannot use "sold as seen" to remove statutory rights, and no extra administration or inspection fees may be added to the advertised price.

Councillor Iskandar Jefferies, chairman of the Joint Public Protection Committee, said: "Buying a car is one of the biggest purchases many people make, and it can be incredibly stressful when something goes wrong. Operation Tabitha demonstrates the important role trading standards plays in raising standards within the motor trade, ensuring businesses understand and comply with their legal responsibilities and taking action where poor practices are identified."

One resident said: "There is absolutely no doubt that your support has been pivotal and the sole reason for resolution. I cannot stress the level of gratitude I have for your support in this matter."

The PPP is a shared service delivering environmental health, licensing and trading standards on behalf of West Berkshire Council and Bracknell Forest Council.

Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter