So I just need to vent because this whole situation has been ridiculous.
I came to Australia to live a dream, build a career and meet great people. got a job, got a place to live, so now I just needed a car. Young girl, with big dreams and hopes.
Then, a couple months ago I bought a car off Facebook Marketplace. The listing made it sound like everything was fine “runs great, no issues, low km, excellent condition” all that standard stuff. Went to check it out, seemed okay at the time (yeah, I know… lesson learned), and I ended up buying it. but I also trusted the seller as he owns his own workshop and got me to pick it up from there.
Within literally the first two DAYS, I’ve only driving 100km, problems started showing up. Weird noises, engine warning lights popping on, burning through oil, jumping when excillerating and now it’s at the point where it barely runs properly. contaced the seller and explained there are multiple issues that definitely didn’t just “suddenly appear overnight.” I requested a refund, he wouldn’t agree but offered to have a look at it.
After weeks and weeks of nothing, excuses and problems with incorrect parts, he changed the pvc valve and apparently fixed the oil burning issue and engine warning light. But obviously, after driving again for just a couple hundred kms, same issue again, burning through oil. I messaged him again and only received vague responses like “it was fine when I had it.” Super convenient.
Also, i was still waiting for the owner transfer.
I tried messaging the seller and now they’re either ignoring me. He is just giving me excuses for weeks again.
I get that buying used cars privately is always a risk, but this feels straight-up dishonest. Like there’s no way they didn’t know something was wrong.
Has anyone else dealt with this kind of situation? Did you just take the loss or is there actually anything you can do? Feeling pretty screwed right now.
Anyway, rant over. Appreciate any advice or similar stories. less