Bought a Honda Civic from De Autocompany Heerhugowaard — problems discovered immediately after purchase
On 18 December 2025 I bought a Honda Civic from De Autocompany Heerhugowaard.
We did a short test drive before purchasing the car. However, during the drive home we immediately noticed problems. The car sometimes did not properly engage 1st and 2nd gear, and there was also a squeaking noise when turning the steering wheel. The drive home was already difficult.
The next day I called the dealer to explain the situation. During the phone call he laughed and said that once a car leaves the dealership it is no longer his responsibility and that he has never taken a car back in his life.
To better understand the condition of the car, I asked an independent mechanic to inspect it. Their report listed several technical issues with estimated repair costs of €1500–€2000, while the purchase price of the car was €4100. The report also indicated that some of the issues should be addressed soon for the car to remain safe to drive.
I informed the dealer about the inspection results and asked for assistance. The only option offered was that he could repair the car if I paid for the repairs, but he refused to provide a quotation beforehand and said he would tell the cost only after the repairs were completed.
During my last attempt to contact him, he said he would only communicate through a lawyer and that if I contacted him again he would sue me for harassment.
I also consulted a legal advisor. I was told that even sending an initial legal letter would cost around €490, and that pursuing the case further could easily reach costs close to the purchase price of the car.
My advice to other buyers is simple: always have an independent inspection done before buying a used car, even if the car seems fine during a test drive. It can help avoid unexpected repair costs and difficult situations afterward.