Newtownabbey motorist compensated

In a case brought by the Trading Standards Service of the Department for the Economy, Kieran Patrick Maguire (26) of Glendore Park, Omagh pleaded guilty to five charges under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 in respect of advertising and selling a 2005 Toyota Corolla and a 2009 Skoda Superb to two different consumers in 2015.

Maguire, who advertised the vehicles on the Gumtree and Done Deal sites, falsely described the vehicles in respect of mileages, previous ownership and MOT histories.

A 2005 Toyota Corolla purchased by a Fintona consumer had its mileage reduced from 154,773 miles to 80,000 miles and was described as having one lady owner, genuine miles and service history. The car had multiple owners and an incorrect MOT record supplied.

A 2009 Skoda Superb sold to a Newtownabbey consumer had its mileage reduced from 277,385 to 118,000 miles. The car was advertised with full Skoda history which was shown to be incorrect during the investigation.

Both vehicles had substantial mechanical breakdowns and the purchasers incurred expenditure which was reflected in compensation awarded by the Judge in his decision.

Eamon McPartland of the Trading Standards Service said: “Car dealers have a responsibility to ensure all descriptions applied to vehicles are truthful and are not misleading to consumers. Traders must provide consumers with all material information regarding a vehicle.”