In Utrecht, just like elsewhere in the Netherlands, car buyers enjoy the same consumer rights as with other purchases. However, the complexity and high costs of vehicles can make matters more challenging. Specific issues often arise with used cars in the Utrecht region.
New Car in Utrecht
When purchasing a new car from a dealer in or around Utrecht:
- You benefit from the manufacturer's warranty, which typically lasts 2 to 7 years
- In addition, the statutory warranty of conformity applies
- The dealer serves as the primary point of contact for any issues
- For online purchases, you have a 14-day cooling-off period
Used Car from a Dealer in Utrecht
For a second-hand car bought from a dealer in Utrecht:
- The statutory warranty applies, though coverage is often more limited than for new cars
- The seller must disclose all known defects
- A BOVAG warranty provides extra protection at affiliated dealers
- Verify the mileage with a NAP check
Purchase from a Private Seller in Utrecht
If buying a car from a private seller in Utrecht:
- There is no special consumer protection
- General sales rules, including conformity, still apply
- The "as seen, bought" clause does not protect against hidden defects
- The seller may not deliberately conceal defects
Common Issues with Car Purchases in Utrecht
- Tampered odometer
- Undisclosed past damage
- Invisible engine or technical problems
- The car turns out to be stolen or subject to a lien
BOVAG, RDW, and Assistance in Utrecht
Before buying in Utrecht, always check:
- The NAP for mileage history
- The RDW database for registration and MOT validity
- Whether the dealer is a BOVAG member for additional warranty
For legal advice on car-related issues in Utrecht, contact Het Juridisch Loket Utrecht. For disputes, the Rechtbank Utrecht falls within your district, and the Gemeente Utrecht sometimes provides information on local vehicle rules.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wat is mijn retourrecht?
Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.
Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?
Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.
Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?
Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.
Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?
Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.
Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?
Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.