Dozens of Customers Report Faulty Cars Amidst Dealer Dispute
A car dealership is under investigation by Trading Standards as numerous customers claim to have purchased vehicles with significant mechanical issues.
Thirty-four customers are engaged in ongoing disputes with Trade Centre UK over faulty vehicles, prompting an investigation by Sandwell Council Trading Standards. The customers allege that cars purchased from various branches of the dealership have experienced serious mechanical problems shortly after purchase, leading to lengthy battles for refunds and repairs.
Newlyweds Amber and Nathan Cooper, from Wolverhampton, stated they used their wedding gift money to purchase a £7,000 Citroen C4 for their honeymoon. Two weeks into their trip in August 2025, the car lost power and began rolling backward on the A30. Upon returning it to the dealership, they discovered it required a new engine, clutch, and gearbox. A year later, the couple is still seeking an apology and their money back, reporting significant financial and emotional distress, and a continued debt from the ordeal.
Similar experiences have been reported by customers across Trade Centre UK branches in Coventry, Rochdale, Rotherham, and Wales. Allegations include loud engine noises, suspension issues, and clutch problems. Customers claim that rejecting vehicles under the Consumer Rights Act has been a complicated and often unsuccessful process.
Connor and Danielle Johnson-Bray, also from Stoke-on-Trent, reported their car broke down within two days of purchase in September. After being offered a replacement that subsequently failed three times in eight months, they incurred £2,200 in repair costs. They eventually settled with the finance company through the small claims court, losing a significant amount of money in the process and experiencing considerable stress.
Michelle Chancellor, from Stourport-on-Severn, initially shared her experience of a Vauxhall breaking down two weeks after purchase due to engine noises. Following her appearance in a BBC report, the dealership accepted her refund request, though it took several additional weeks to be processed. As a self-employed mature student, she noted the financial impact of the delay.
Trade Centre UK has stated that it takes customer concerns seriously and that problems can occur on rare occasions. The company's statement indicated that its teams work with customers to investigate issues and find resolutions, which may include repairs, replacement vehicles, or accepting vehicle rejections. They emphasized their 20 years of operation and service to hundreds of thousands of customers.
Consumer expert Stuart Masson described the situation as "enormously frustrating," noting that the Consumer Rights Act is designed to be fair. He highlighted that problems occurring within the first few weeks of purchase should be easier to resolve.
Sandwell Council Trading Standards confirmed its investigation and advised anyone with similar issues to report them via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service.