When your new car turns out to be faulty, writing the right rejection letter can mean the difference between a quick refund and months of back-and-forth. Here's how to get it right first time.
Why Your Rejection Letter Matters
A rejection letter isn't just a formality – it's a legal document that:
- Creates a paper trail that can be used in court if needed
- Puts the dealer on notice of their legal obligations
- Starts the clock on the 14-day refund period
- Shows you know your rights (dealers are less likely to mess you around)
Many dealers hope you'll just accept a repair or give up. A well-written letter shows them you mean business.
What to Include in Your Rejection Letter
1. Your Details
Start with your full name, address, and contact details. Include the date prominently.
2. The Car Details
Be specific about the vehicle:
- Registration number
- Make and model
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Date of purchase
- Mileage at purchase
- Purchase price
3. The Fault Description
Describe what's wrong clearly and factually. Include:
- What the problem is
- When you first noticed it
- How it affects the car's use
- Any warning lights or error codes
4. The Legal Basis
Reference the Consumer Rights Act 2015 specifically. State that the car is not of satisfactory quality, not fit for purpose, or not as described (whichever applies).
5. Your Demand
Be clear that you're exercising your right to reject and requesting a full refund within 14 days.
Sample Rejection Letter Template
Here's a template you can adapt:
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Date]
[Dealer Name] [Dealer Address]
RE: Rejection of Vehicle Under Consumer Rights Act 2015 Registration: [REG NUMBER]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to formally reject the above vehicle, which I purchased from your dealership on [DATE] for [PRICE].
Since taking delivery, I have discovered that the vehicle has the following fault(s):
[DESCRIBE FAULT IN DETAIL]
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, goods sold by a trader must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. This vehicle fails to meet these standards due to the fault(s) described above.
As the fault was present within 30 days of delivery, I am exercising my statutory right to reject the vehicle and request a full refund of [AMOUNT].
Please confirm within 7 days how you intend to collect the vehicle and process my refund. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, refunds must be processed within 14 days of the trader taking back the goods.
I trust this matter can be resolved promptly. Should you fail to comply with my statutory rights, I will have no option but to pursue this matter through the courts and report the matter to Trading Standards.
Yours faithfully,
[YOUR NAME]
Pro Tips for Maximum Impact
Send It Properly
- Email AND post – send both for a paper trail
- Use recorded delivery for the posted letter
- Keep copies of everything
Timing Matters
- Send it as soon as possible within the 30-day window
- If you're close to day 30, email first then follow up with post
Don't Accept Delays
- Don't agree to "let them have a look at it first"
- Don't accept promises to repair
- The 30-day right to reject means exactly that
Be Professional
- Stick to facts, not emotions
- Don't make threats you can't back up
- But do mention Trading Standards and courts
What Happens Next?
After sending your letter, you should:
- Wait for their response – give them 7-14 days
- Keep the car safe but don't drive it unnecessarily
- Document everything – photos, messages, calls
- Refuse any repairs within the 30-day period
If they accept, they should arrange collection and process your refund. If they refuse or ignore you, that's when you escalate. See our guide on what to do when a dealer ignores your rejection.
When to Get Help
If the dealer is being difficult, you might need:
- A formal letter from a specialist – this often changes their tune
- Assistance contacting your finance company (if applicable – they're jointly liable under Section 75)
- Guidance on court proceedings if it comes to that
The key is not to give up. Dealers rely on people losing patience and accepting less than they're entitled to.
Struggling to get your dealer to respond? Check if we can help – our team has recovered millions for people with faulty cars.
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