Owners are drawn to Omoda, Jaecoo, and Chery cars for their exceptional value, generous standard equipment, striking design, and long warranties. These brands offer a premium feel and advanced technology at a highly competitive price, making them a smart choice for drivers who want style, safety, and peace of mind without breaking the bank.
However, as with any car, some owners may experience issues. If you’re facing persistent faults or problems that affect your enjoyment or confidence in your vehicle, this guide explains your rights and the practical steps you can take to reject or hand back your car under UK law.
Manufacturers websites:
https://omodaauto.co.uk/
https://jaecoo.co.uk/
https://www.cherycar.co.uk/
Issues That May Justify Rejection
Software & Infotainment Glitches: Freezing or laggy touchscreens, unreliable voice commands, and inaccurate trip computers.
Driver Assistance System Faults: Over-sensitive lane assist, erratic emergency braking, and persistent warning chimes.
Mechanical Concerns: Gearbox hesitation or failure, starting issues, and traction loss in damp conditions.
Build Quality & Reliability: Rattles, inconsistent locking, and concerns about parts and service support.
Safety Risks: Malfunctioning safety features (e.g., ABS, pre-collision assist) and unpredictable emergency braking.
If these issues are severe, persistent, or affect the car’s safety, they may make the vehicle “unsatisfactory” under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
Your Legal Rights: The Consumer Rights Act 2015
Short-Term Right to Reject (0–30 days): If a major fault appears within 30 days of delivery, you can reject the car for a full refund. The dealer cannot deduct for usage.
Final Right to Reject (30 days–6 months): If a fault arises after 30 days but within six months, the dealer gets one chance to repair or replace. If the problem isn’t fixed, you can reject the car for a refund (with a possible deduction for use).
After 6 Months: You must prove the fault was present at delivery, usually with an independent expert report.
Possible issues with Jaeco, Chery and Omoda cars:
Issue Category | Specific Problems & Examples | Legal Basis for Refund Claim |
|---|---|---|
Safety | Erratic Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) triggers sudden braking for no hazard; aggressive Lane Assist jerks steering into oncoming traffic. | Unfit for Purpose, Unsatisfactory Quality. Safety features that introduce danger make the car unroadworthy. |
Mechanical | Gearbox failure warning, major fluid leaks, or total loss of drive within months; engine cuts out in traffic or fails to start; premature failure of drive shaft seals or steering racks. | Not of Satisfactory Quality, Major Mechanical Failure. A new car should not suffer severe powertrain/component faults. |
Recurring Faults | Dashboard warning lights (engine, ABS, safety systems) keep returning after repair attempts; dealer fails to repair same issue after a reasonable opportunity within 6 months. | Dealer failed to repair, right to reject. Consumer can claim a final refund if the issue is not resolved promptly. |
Systemic/Design Faults | Hands-free locking fails, dashboard screen blacks out in rain, major phone connectivity issues; Tiggo 8 grille lets in debris, damaging the radiator, requiring aftermarket fixes. | Not of Satisfactory Quality, Unfit for Purpose, Not as Described. Modern cars must have reliable electronics and design. |
Infotainment Issues | Touchscreen freezes or lags, climate controls buried in menus, unreliable voice commands, inaccurate trip computer, DAB radio signal loss, Apple CarPlay location errors. | Not as Described, Unsatisfactory Quality. Infotainment should be reliable and easy to use in a modern car. |
Security | Remote/hands-free locking/unlocking is inconsistent, car fails to lock/unlock on approach, horn sounds unexpectedly after locking, leaving vehicle insecure. | Not of Satisfactory Quality, Unfit for Purpose. Security functions must work reliably. |
Ride Comfort | Suspension described as "fussy," "wooden," or "crashy" over rough roads; excessive engine noise, especially in petrol models; uncomfortable ride at low speeds. | Not of Satisfactory Quality. Ride comfort should meet reasonable expectations for the segment and price. |
Traction/Handling | Front-wheel drive models lose traction and spin wheels easily in damp conditions; poor grip or stability in wet weather. | Unfit for Purpose. Safe handling and traction are essential for everyday driving. |
Starting/Power Issues | Car fails to start, dies in traffic, requires system reboot or tow; battery or alternator faults; sudden loss of power while driving. | Not of Satisfactory Quality, Unfit for Purpose. Reliable starting and power delivery are basic requirements. |
Build Quality | Minor rattles from doors or trim after a few weeks; inconsistent quality control; multiple problems shortly after purchase; poor fit and finish. | Not of Satisfactory Quality. New cars should not exhibit premature wear or build issues. |
Service/Parts Support | Difficulty obtaining parts or diagnostic software; long repair times due to new brand status; dealer unable to resolve issues due to lack of technical support. | Not as Described, Unfit for Purpose. Reasonable after-sales support is expected for new vehicles. |
Safety Recall | Airbag fails to deploy correctly due to trim interference (e.g., J7 Euro NCAP issue); unresolved recall or safety campaign affecting critical systems. | Unfit for Purpose, Unsatisfactory Quality. Safety recalls must be resolved promptly and effectively. |
Actionable Steps for Owners
Document Everything: Keep a log of faults, repair attempts, and all communications with the dealer. Save emails, texts, and service reports.
Notify in Writing: Clearly state you are “rejecting the vehicle under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.” Use the template below.
Act Quickly: The sooner you act, the stronger your rights—especially within the first 30 days.
Contact the Dealer: Your contract is with the selling dealer, not the manufacturer.
Be Persistent: If the dealer refuses, escalate to the finance company (if applicable) and consider the Motor Ombudsman for dispute resolution.
Template Letter: Rejecting Your Car
Top Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid
Don’t delay: Waiting too long can weaken your position.
Be clear and factual: Avoid emotional language—stick to the facts and your rights.
Keep records: If you escalate, evidence is your best ally.
Mileage deductions: After 30 days, expect a deduction for use—negotiate if the car was unusable.
Finance: If you bought on finance, notify the finance company—they are jointly responsible.
Conclusion
Most owners enjoy their Jaecoo, Omoda, or Chery for the value, style, and features they offer. If you do encounter persistent issues, acting quickly, keeping good records, and knowing your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 can help you resolve things fairly—whether that means a repair, replacement, or, in rare cases, a refund.
If you need help drafting your letter or want to provide feedback your evidence, Caira can review your documents and provide instant, UK-specific support—24/7.
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