Is This Car Dealer Legit?
Check a dealer's credentials before you buy. We'll help you verify their legitimacy and find reviews.
Enter a dealer name to check their credentials
We'll provide links to verify their FCA registration, company status, and reviews.
How to Check if a Car Dealer is Legitimate
Before buying a car, especially from an independent dealer, it's important to do your homework. Rogue traders cost UK consumers millions every year through mis-sold vehicles, hidden defects, and outright fraud.
What to Check Before Buying
- FCA Registration: If they offer finance, they must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Selling finance without authorisation is illegal.
- Companies House: Check if they're a registered company, how long they've been trading, and if they have any red flags like frequent director changes.
- Reviews: Look at Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and AutoTrader reviews. Be wary of dealers with very few reviews or only recent 5-star reviews.
- Physical Premises: Do they have a proper forecourt or operate from a residential address? Meet at their business address, not "halfway".
- Trading Standards: Check if they're members of any approved trader schemes like Trading Standards "Buy With Confidence".
Red Flags to Watch For
- Dealer insists on cash payment only
- Won't provide paperwork or receipts
- Pressures you to decide immediately
- Won't let you have the car independently inspected
- Company is very new or has been dissolved and re-formed
- Multiple businesses registered at the same residential address
- Mixed or suspicious online reviews
Why FCA Registration Matters
If a dealer offers car finance (PCP, HP, or personal loans), they must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This gives you important protections:
- Access to the Financial Ombudsman if things go wrong
- The dealer must follow strict rules about affordability checks
- You have extra rights under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act
- The FCA can take action against rogue dealers
Already Bought From a Dodgy Dealer?
If you've bought a faulty car, you have rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 - even if the dealer is being difficult. We can help you reject the car and get your money back.
Check if I can reject my carWhat If the Dealer Has Closed Down?
If you bought on finance and the dealer has since closed, you may still have options. Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, the finance company is jointly liable for any breach of contract by the dealer. This is another reason why FCA registration and buying on finance can actually protect you.