Car buyers in the UAE can now enjoy stronger protections thanks to updated laws targeting the sale of defective vehicles. Federal Law No. 15 of 2020, enhanced by Federal Decree-Law No. 5 of 2023, introduces strict rules to ensure transparency and accountability in the automotive market.
Ensuring Fair Practices in Vehicle Sales
The new regulations focus on key areas to protect buyers from deceptive practices:
1. Clear and Honest Vehicle Descriptions
Sellers are legally required to:
- Provide accurate details about the vehicle’s condition.
- Avoid misleading advertisements or exaggerations.
- Disclose any known issues or defects.
2. Full Disclosure of Vehicle Condition
As per Article 7 of Cabinet Decision No. 66 of 2023:
- Used vehicles must be advertised with a clear statement of their condition.
- Sales contracts must include a documented account of the vehicle’s state.
- Invoices should reflect precise and truthful information.
3. Transparent Warranty Policies
- Sellers must clearly outline warranty terms and obligations.
- Any promises made during the warranty period are legally enforceable.
Heavy Penalties for Non-Compliance
To deter violations, authorities have implemented significant penalties:
- Fines of up to AED 100,000 for selling defective used vehicles.
- Penalties apply to both private sellers and registered dealerships.
- Each emirate’s local authority is responsible for enforcing these rules.
What Buyers Can Do
If you’ve unknowingly purchased a defective vehicle, the law provides avenues to seek justice:
- Document the Problem: Keep records of technical issues and defects.
- Gather Proof: Retain all contracts, invoices, and communication with the seller.
- File a Complaint: Contact the seller with evidence of misrepresentation.
- Report to Authorities: Submit a complaint to the Ministry of Economy or your emirate’s relevant body.
- Claim Compensation: Pursue legal action under Article 24(1) of the Consumer Protection Law.
Buyers’ Rights at a Glance
The law ensures protection against:
- False or exaggerated vehicle advertisements.
- Concealment of defects or critical information.
- Misleading warranty terms or service commitments.
Filing Complaints Made Easy
Buyers seeking redress can:
- Contact the UAE Ministry of Economy or the consumer authority in their emirate.
- Provide evidence of the defective vehicle, including receipts and sales contracts.
- Share communication records showing attempts to resolve the issue.
A Step Towards Transparency
These enhanced regulations reflect the UAE’s commitment to consumer protection. By holding sellers accountable, the new measures aim to build trust and fairness in the automotive market. If you’ve been affected by a defective vehicle, the law is on your side—take action and reclaim your rights.
