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Date Published: 11/11/2021
Compensation for owners of cars bought between 2006 and 2013 in Spain
Drivers in Spain may be entitled to refunds of more than 2,000 euros
In 2015, the National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) uncovered a series of fraudulent activities involving 91% of the brands of cars sold in Spain. The investigation established that some 147 sellers were involved in the exchange of “secret, future and strategic” information that essentially constituted a cartel.
Since then the CNMC has been imposing a series of millionaire fines on the large car brands that were involved in the scheme and now the Supreme Court has decreed that drivers who purchased a vehicle from one of these dealerships between 2006 and 2013 can claim compensation for the extra expense incurred as a result of their deception.
How much compensation are drivers entitled to?
The experts have estimated that the average car buyer spent around 10% more on their purchase, between 2,000 and 9,000 euros, than the sale price of the car, due to the dealers passing confidential information between themselves. Around 10 million drivers have been scammed, including private buyers, businesses, taxis and car rental companies.
The amount of compensation due will be depend on the extra amount above market value paid for the vehicle, but the current refund is around 10% of the purchase price.
How can drivers apply for compensation?
Those affected can apply for a refund individually or through any of the countless associations established to aid drivers in claiming their compensation. Whichever route is taken, car owners are advised to gather as much documentation as possible, but the vital records to claim are the purchase invoice or proof of payment for the rental or leasing of a vehicle, the amount paid for repairs (if any), as well as the technical sheet for the car.
To find out if a vehicle is eligible for a refund, some organisations such as the Group of People Affected by the Car Cartel (AACC) have verification tools on their website; drivers need simply fill out an online form and the system will automatically tell owners if their cars are affected.
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