Buying a car is often one of the biggest purchases a consumer makes. That’s why it can be especially frustrating if the car turns out to be faulty—sometimes just days after the purchase. Fortunately, if you’ve bought the car from a dealership, you’re protected under the Swedish Consumer Sales Act (Konsumentköplagen).
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In this article, we explain your rights as a consumer when a car is defective, how to file a complaint, and what you can legally demand from the seller in Sweden.
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When Is a Car Considered Defective?
A car is considered faulty if it:
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Doesn’t match what was agreed or advertised
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Has hidden defects not disclosed before purchase
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Breaks down unusually quickly or has safety issues
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Lacks expected features or proper service history
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Has been involved in an accident without your knowledge
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Has a manipulated odometer reading
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What If You Bought the Car From a Dealer?
If you bought your car from a professional seller (car dealership), the Swedish Consumer Sales Act (2022:260) applies. This law is mandatory in favor of the consumer, meaning the dealer cannot offer you less protection than the law provides.
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What Are Your Legal Rights?
If the car is faulty, you have the right to demand:
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Repair of the defect
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Replacement (another equivalent vehicle)
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Price reduction
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Cancellation of the purchase (in case of serious issues)
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Compensation for damages (e.g. rental car costs or other financial losses)
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In most cases, the seller has the right to try to fix the problem before you can demand a refund or cancel the purchase.
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How Long Do You Have to Complain?
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You have 3 years to make a complaint, starting from the delivery date.
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If a defect appears within 2 years, the seller must prove that the issue was not present at delivery.
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You must complain within a reasonable time after discovering the issue (within 2 months is always considered reasonable under the law).
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What If You Bought the Car From a Private Seller?
If you bought the car from a private individual, the Swedish Sale of Goods Act (Köplagen) applies instead of the consumer law. You still have rights if the car has hidden defects, but the protection is weaker. A phrase like “sold as is” may limit your ability to claim compensation.
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What If the Seller Refuses to Help?
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File a written complaint—preferably by email.
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Refer to the applicable law (Consumer Sales Act or Sale of Goods Act).
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Contact the Swedish National Board for Consumer Disputes (ARN).
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Consider seeking legal advice, especially if the dispute involves a large sum.
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Summary
If you bought a car from a dealership and it turns out to be defective, don’t wait to act. Under Swedish law, you may have the right to a free repair, replacement vehicle, refund, or compensation.
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The Consumer Sales Act gives you strong legal protection—just be sure to file your complaint in time and keep written records of all communication with the seller.
