write off before registration

[grannan]

Wonder if you could let me have your comments on my situation:

I bought a brand new Fiat Ducato van (converted to a Motorhome by Trigano) in February of this year from a dealer in York.

I paid online for a vehicle check which showed no alterations, insurance claims etc.

I got the vehicle registered with DVLA on 1 Feb 2008.

In May there was a problem with the steering rack, took it to my local Fiat dealer who replaced it (it was leaking and unrepairable), subsequently discovered that Fiat had withdrawn the warranty on the vehicle.

Fiat tell me that the vehicle was part of an insurance claim (due to being in a flood) and had been written off by the insurers. (dont' know yet what category but as far as I'm concerned the vehicle is in perfect brand new condition).

I have asked Fiat to send me details of the 'write off', meanwhile my questions are:

Would a write off not have shown up on a vehicle check either before or after registration? (it still doesn't show)

Should Fiat allow a brand new vehicle which has been written off to still be in circulation for sale to an unwary victim (me!)?

Look forward to comments.

[grannan]

I got a discount off the price because it had 'flood damage' (essentially there was no sign of any damage anywhere) but was told it was not a write off by the dealer and no I didn't get it from an authorised Fiat dealer. I believed the dealer about the 'write off' because nothing came up on my checks. - this is what concerns me - surely I would have found some information about an insurance claim?
Just goes to show even if you think it's okay, beware!

[BRAVO1]

HPI checks are always the better option than the other somewhat dodgy on-line deals.

Remember that not every car is reported to the insurance company when things go wrong.

People buy accident damaged cars direct from owners.

You can buy a right off that has been repaired and not reported through the insurance.

[TWR]

Hi, Short answer, It was sold to you knowing by the seller to be a right off, then sold to you under false discription, you have a case.

[BRAVO1]

LESSON ONE : Always get a proper HPI check.