Purchasing a secondhand car in the UAE requires diligence, especially when dealing with individual sellers. UAE law mandates that sellers accurately describe products and avoid misleading consumers, as outlined in the Federal Law No. 15 of 2020 on Consumer Protection, amended by Federal Decree-Law No. 5 of 2023, and Cabinet Decision No. 66 of 2023. These laws ensure consumer rights by holding sellers accountable for providing correct and transparent information about the goods they sell.

According to Article 17 of the Consumer Protection Law, sellers are prohibited from giving incorrect or misleading descriptions of goods. If the seller fails to disclose the car's actual condition or deliberately hides defects, the act is considered deceptive under Article 8 of the Cabinet Decision. Additionally, Article 7 of the same Decision requires sellers of used products to explicitly state their condition in advertisements and contracts to prevent false impressions. Non-compliance can result in penalties of up to AED 100,000.

Consumers also have the right to claim compensation for any personal or material damage caused by defective products, as per Article 24 of the Consumer Protection Law. In such cases, filing a complaint with the UAE Ministry of Economy or relevant local authorities is a viable option. Furthermore, if the seller provided a warranty, they are obligated to address any defects within the warranty period under Article 12 and Article 13 of the Cabinet Decision.

If you face issues with a secondhand car purchase, understanding these legal provisions can guide you in seeking recourse. Complaints can lead to financial penalties for deceptive sellers and compensation for consumers. Always ensure thorough documentation, such as contracts and warranties, when purchasing used vehicles to safeguard your rights.