What rights do I have as a consumer with a faulty product?
January 9, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Friedhelm Krebs
Dear lawyer,
I am reaching out to you because I recently purchased a faulty product and I am unsure of what rights I have as a consumer in this case. Specifically, I purchased a vacuum cleaner from an online retailer two weeks ago. After only a few uses, I noticed that the vacuum cleaner is not functioning as expected. It is not sucking properly and is making strange noises.
I feel very uncertain as a consumer in this situation and I am wondering if I have to keep the faulty product or if I am entitled to a refund or exchange. I am also concerned about how to effectively enforce my rights as a consumer.
Can you please explain to me what rights I have as a consumer with a faulty product and how I should proceed to address my concerns? Are there specific deadlines I need to be aware of? What steps are necessary to find a suitable solution to my problem?
I thank you in advance for your support and guidance in this matter.
Sincerely,
Adele Helbig
Dear Mrs. Helbig,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the faulty vacuum cleaner that you recently purchased. As a consumer, you have certain rights in such cases that can help you resolve your issue with the defective product.
First and foremost, it is important to know that as a consumer, you have a right to warranty. This means that the purchased product must have the agreed upon quality, be free from defects, and be suitable for normal use. In your case, it appears that the vacuum cleaner does not meet these requirements, as it is not functioning as expected.
If a product has defects, you as a consumer have various options to enforce your right to warranty. Firstly, you should inform the seller and request repair, exchange, or refund. The seller usually has the option to rectify the defect by repairing or replacing the product. However, if the seller is unwilling or unable to offer a satisfactory solution, you may be able to withdraw from the purchase contract and request a refund.
It is important that you inform the seller of the defect in writing and set a reasonable deadline for resolving the issue. If the seller does not respond or provide a satisfactory solution, you can contact a consumer protection agency or a consumer rights attorney who can assist you.
In terms of deadlines, there are legal regulations that must be followed. Generally, as a consumer, you have two years to report defects in the product. However, it is advisable to report the defect as soon as possible to increase your chances of a swift resolution.
I recommend that you first inform the seller in writing about the defect and set a reasonable deadline for rectification. If the seller does not respond or provide a satisfactory solution, please feel free to contact me to discuss further legal steps and enforce your rights as a consumer.
I hope that my explanations are helpful to you and I am available to assist you with your concerns.
Sincerely,
Friedhelm Krebs
