New Consumer Rights Act comes into force this week

From this Thursday, if you buy a product and discover a fault within 30 days, you'll be entitled to a refund - even when it's a used car.

Under the new Consumer Rights Act 2015, shoppers can't simply be offered a repair instead. It's just one of several new rules designed to make sure that companies can't get away with shoddy deals.

The act replaces three existing pieces of legislation: the Sale of Goods Act, the Supply of Goods and Services Act and the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations.

In what's known as the 'short-term right to reject', consumers will now be able to return goods within 30 days for a full refund if they're not of satisfactory quality, not fit for purpose, not sold as described, or don't match the goods the customer was shown before purchase.

And there's improved protection if you discover a fault any time within six months. In this case, the supplier can offer a repair, but has to give a refund or replacement if this doesn't work.

The rule also covers digital content, and allows you to claim if, say, a download damages your device.

However, in the case of cars, you may not get a full refund, as there could be a reduction based on the use you've had out of the car.

"The Consumer Rights Act 2015 gives more power to those consumers who are dissatisfied with a purchase, giving them the right to reject faulty used cars and ask for a replacement or refund," says Neil Hodson, managing director of motoring database company HPI.

"However, consumers still need to do their homework before handing over their hard-earned money, ensuring they make a clever purchase, rather than one they regret."

Companies are also now required to make sure their terms and conditions are set out in easy-to-understand language - and in print big enough to read. They are also required to be fair, making it easier to challenge hidden costs and charges.

"The Consumer Rights Act brings the law up to date with the modern marketplace and strengthens consumer rights. Getting a refund or repair, dealing with issues with faulty digital downloads and challenging unfair terms should all be made much simpler," says Which? executive director Richard Lloyd.

"Businesses now need to ensure their staff are aware of the changes so they're not short-changing customers or breaking the law."

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