TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Disclaimer
www.carswappers.co.uk accepts no responsibility regarding the swapping of vehicles by any individuals using this site for advertising, it is down to the individuals concerned in the swap to follow all advice given by www.carswappers.co.uk and to use common sense. We recommend a full vehicle mechanical check is done, and a hire purchase agreement check is cleared before the swap takes place. www.carswappers.co.uk is an advertising site offering the motoring public the opportunity to place an advert on our website, and takes no responsibility for any problems that may arise due to vehicle swaps.

Private Swap Legal Rights
This is considerably cheaper than purchasing from a dealer but there is a higher risk element. The general rule relating to private swaps is ‘let the buyer beware’. In other words if you are swapping a vehicle from a private individual it is up to you to ask all the questions to determine the history of the the vehicle, and to inspect the vehicle, or to arrange an inspection of the vehicle to confirm its condition. It is recommended that a history check be performed on the vehicle to avoid difficulties at a later date.

Your rights
The swapper must not miss-describe or misrepresent the vehicle – to this end if the car is described as having had just ‘one previous owner’ and this should turn out not to be the case then the car has failed to conform to its description. As above the description must have been made prior to the swap and must have been a factor in deciding to swap cars. IF IN DOUBT DO NOT SWAP. As you can see the usual rights that you expect from a dealer are not applicable and there is usually little that can be done about a car that has developed a defect after a swap.

Avoid becoming a victim of car crime
If you are swapping a vehicle privately and it is later identified as having been stolen you may have no right in law to its ownership. Follow these practical steps to help avoid becoming a victim of car crime, and remember to inform DVLA of any changes in vehicle ownership, registration details or driver details.

• View the vehicle at the address shown on the registration document.
• Ask the swapper for proof of identity – make sure the person swapping the vehicle has the right to do so.
• Never swap a vehicle without a registration document (V5) even if the swapper says it has been sent to the DVLA for changes.
• Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) corresponds with the number on the registration document. This number can usually be found on a metal plate under the bonnet.
• If the VIN plate has been removed, ask why!
• Never hand over cash, and be wary of swappers who only contact you via a mobile phone, as they are virtually untraceable.
• Check the mileage reading corresponds with the service history and past owners.
• Check if the vehicle has been seriously damaged, notified as stolen or is subject to outstanding finance.
• Be sure before you swap – if in doubt walk away.

Disclaimer
www.carswappers.co.uk accepts no responsibility regarding the swapping of vehicles, it is down to the individuals concerned in the swap to follow all advice given by www.carswappers.co.uk. We recommend a full vehicle mechanical check is done and a hpi check is cleared before the swap takes place.

What to Check
When swapping always check the car’s logbook or registration document to validate ownership, accuracy of age and mileage. Don’t rely on the MOT as evidence of a car’s condition.

Bodywork
Ask yourself the following questions

• Does the car appear genuine; what are your general impressions?
• Does the model badge match the specification on the registration documents? Adding a plastic letter to the model badge is a cheap way of pushing up the asking price.
• Are the body panels consistent; is there any evidence of repaired accident damage?
• Does the colour and texture of the paintwork match all over?
• Check the bodywork with a magnet to show up any dents touched up with body filler.
• Check beneath the bonnet or under the boot for bad welds, untidy seams or any other evidence of accident repairs.
• Check for rust and paint bubbles particularly on the sills, wheel arches, seams, door bottoms and suspension mountings.

Electrical
Make sure these are working

• Check headlights, dashboard warning lights and other electrical equipment. Electric window and central locking repairs can be expensive. Remember to check the obvious things, such as hazard lights, windscreen wipers and the horn.
• If there is a stereo fitted make sure it is included in the SWAP and that it works.

Engine
Check under the bonnet

• Look for oil leaks, defective or damaged hoses and drive belts. The general condition of the engine can reveal the degree of care and attention the car has received.
• Check oil and coolants for low levels or any sign of contamination.
• If the engine is reconditioned, ask for evidence; a bill or preferably a warranty.