A CAR dealer from Warwickshire who sold an unroadworthy Volvo V70, he had described on eBay as a ‘Superb Vehicle’, has been prosecuted.
Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards brought the prosecution after receiving a complaint from the buyer who had purchased the car for his pregnant daughter.
Mr Alan Cooper of Sandy Way Barford, trading as Aspect Autos, pleaded guilty to two offences under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008
The 51-year-old traded from his home address, parking the vehicles he was selling at locations across Leamington.
A vehicle examiner identified a number of faults including the brake pedal which almost went to the floor before the brakes activated.
Other concerns included poisonous fumes released from the engine breather and exhaust systems into the engine bay, a worn brake pad and warning lights including for the air bag.
WCC safety spokesman Andy Crump said: “Car dealers must ensure that the vehicles they sell are both legal and roadworthy, otherwise they are putting lives at risk.
“Our Trading Standards officers are working to protect all road users and I urge anyone who thinks they may have purchased an unroadworthy vehicle to report the matter to Warwickshire Trading Standards for help and advice.”
“Consumers can also take their own precautions by following our used car buyer top tips.”
In mitigation, Mr Cooper stated that he normally made £200 to £300 profit on every vehicle he sold, he normally sold approximately 40 vehicles per year but he had been unable to sell as many cars this year due to the covid restrictions.
Mr Cooper was given a conditional discharge for two years, ordered to pay £1,000 as a contribution toward prosecution costs, and a £22 victim surcharge.
