Legal assistance with car purchase problems

Questioner

On March 29th, I bought a car. A 1991 Audi Cabriolet. I came across this car through a rave review in a major newspaper on March 28th, which tested three affordable convertibles. The dealer stated that the car was in good mechanical condition. Unfortunately, after about two weeks of owning the car, I had to have the local garage determine that it was in such poor mechanical condition that I shouldn't drive it anymore! The problems include a rusted-through exhaust manifold, a rusted-through catalytic converter, cracked/torn suspension bushings, worn-out rear shocks, and a massive oil-leaking engine. My own visual inspection before purchasing showed that it has a good exhaust, but unfortunately, this only applies to the visible part up to the bulkhead under the engine. Because of this, the engine block leaks heavily and went unnoticed. I've already asked the seller to repair the car at his expense to bring it up to par, or to take it back at purchase price. Unfortunately, he refused to do so, neither by phone nor in writing (a registered letter with the claim, arguments, and proof), and according to him, it's my problem. What can I do? (Incidentally, the car's purchase price was €2250, with the points raised that the rear tires and brake pads all around should be replaced soon. He did not raise any of the points I mentioned above.)

Questioner

It's best to cancel the purchase agreement and claim your money back. This is your right, as the seller refuses to repair the car. You have legitimate expectations of the car, which the seller has created, and these should be met by repairing it or replacing it with an equivalent and properly functioning car. If this isn't possible, you can cancel the agreement. If you need assistance with this matter, please feel free to contact me; I'm happy to help. A letter from a lawyer often carries more weight with the opposing party. Yours sincerely, Mr. RJN Cornegé