sold a category u car by a dealer. Simple procedure.... what are my chances?

[dobber123]

I was sold a category U car in February 2023 which was not disclosed to me. I paid £12,500 for it. I have tried to part exchange it and no one is touching it. I also cannot seem to sell it privately even for £9500. The dealer is refusing to accept wrongdoing and is refusing to let the motor ombudsman deal with the case. My only option is to now make a simple procedure. What are my chances.....?

[Stellar]

Hi.

You can try 'Which' Consumer Advisor. Put into your computer the following> (without the punctuation mark)
'complain about car dealer'. The first heading should be > www.which.co.uk. Click on it and follow the guide/instructions.
You can also contact your local 'Citizens Advice'. You can also get advice from Trading Standards. Check with your local Council, you can get advice as well.

Good luck

[Pezza54]

A dealer has to disclose to the customer that the car was an insurance write-off. A private seller does not but must disclose this if the buyer asks.
A category u car means an insurance claim was not made but the car had not suffered structural damage.
Provided the dealer did not tell you that the car had been involved in an accident the dealer is guilty of misrepresentation and you should have a strong claim.

[MaryS57]

Which? also have a section for personalised legal advice for a small fee, (which?legal) . We belong - their advice is excellent.

[Pezza54]

Misrepresentation includes the omission of a statement of fact that may have dissuaded a person to take a particular course of action.
Would you have bought the car had you known it was category U?