How would you approch this?

[gman150]

I have a bit of a dilemma.

I bought a Renault from a dealership and as part of their sales process they sent of all paperwork to the DVLA.

Now I bought the car in July08 and didn't realise I hadn't been sent a V5 registration document. This only came to light yesterday when I checked my TAX disc and realised it was out of date. As I hadn't had a TAX reminder through the post I rang the DVLA and they said they had no record of this car being registered in my name.

So now I have an untaxed car on the road and no V5. The DVLA also said I have to go to a DVLA office and pay �25 for another V5.

I have never been good at arguing a case and wondered how you would approach this situation. I believe I should be entitled to some compensation as the dealerships mistake is costing me money.

Sorry for the long winded post!!!

[Panic Button]

I would go to the dealer, and ask politely but firmly to speak to the top guy.

I would explain the situation and ask what he (or she) is going to do to resolve it.

I would be careful not to lose my temper, but keep everything businesslike and calm. However I would make it quite plain that I hold them totally responsible, and that I would not accept any financial loss on my part.

I would warn them that I would involve the local press if necessary.

[Ethel]

The dealer will say he posted the documents - he would have no way of knowing if they were received or not, as all further communication from the DVLA in respect of this vehicle would go to the new owner.

He will say you should have contacted the DVLA when you didn't receive the V5 in reasonable time.

Dealers do not normally contact new owners to ensure the V5 has been received.

[north star]

If you fail to renew the road tax the registered keeper becomes liable for an �80 penalty.

[Panic Button]

Ethel is right, as usual.

Ignore my first answer.

[gman150]

Thanks all for taking the time to answer.

It turns out it's the fault of the DVLA somewhere along the line.

When I bought the car I had a number plate put on and the dealer sent someone to the DVLA office with all the correct paperwork. The dealer then received the new number plate certificate and a tax disc/mot with the correct reg on so they must have handed the paperwork into someone at the DVLA.

The DVLA stated because it had been so long since I got the car it is too late to do an investigation and find out what went wrong. Any way car is taxed now and a new V5 is on its way after a fee of �25.

Once again thanks everyone.