Ask an expert

Hello,
I bought a used car (Subaru Forester 2005) last tuesday from a car dealer. The car came with a AA appraisal with no defects found during inspection and " a very good report " according to the salesperson.

Nevertheless i booked yesterday a AA Pre Purchased Inspection which pointed serious problems on the engine (very bad oil leak) and transmission. The inspector of the AA Pre Purchased told me it should have be noticed by the Appraisal.

I have an appointment with the car dealer tomorrow. What should I do and not do, because I can't afford any more cost on that car i just paid?

I feel i was mislead by the quality of the car because i clearly explained that i would not buy a car with addition expenses to plan in a close future. The salesperson told me to rely on the appraisal...

Should I get in touch with AA as well ?

Thanks a lot for you help.

Hi there,
An AA Appraisal is a "Dealer only" one page inspection and is designed to let the dealer know a small part of the vehicle's condition before they list it for sale on the yard. As you have seen a PPI is designed for and purchased by the buyer form them to be able to make an informed buying decision, negotiate repairs and purchase price before buying the vehicle. The AA inspections team can discuss the PPI with you as you own the report, but not the appraisal as the dealer owns this one. The car dealer must make sure the vehicle has a new wof (no less than 28 days old) and must make sure the vehicle is in a reasonable condition considering the age and mileage- keep in mind you purchased a 14 year old vehicle and so it is likely that it could be showing some age related symptoms.

Dear Cade,
Thanks very much for your quick reply.
I have to say that I am confused. In one hand the dealer said that I could believe the appraisal.
In another hand, the inspector (from the AAP prechuased) should have noted the big problem in the engine, and I show him the appraisal because I have it.
I know that the car is 14years old but I would never have bought this one knowing that I may have to add a lot expenses after ward.

Can you please help with the right process because I juste spent all My savings in that car.

Thanks again for your help

Hi,
The appropriate flow is as follows. If there is an issue with the appraisal, the dealer will be the one who has to go back to the AA inspections team- as the dealer paid for that inspection. If you have an issue with the vehicle and what the dealer said to you at the time of purchase, then you need to take that up with the dealer.