A Belmont man has found that selling used cars without a motor vehicle dealers licence does not pay.

Issue Date: - Tuesday, 27 November 2007

Peter John Spini of Mclauchlan Way in Belmont pleaded guilty to unlicensed dealing and was fined $3,000 with costs of $593.50 in the Perth Magistrates Court.

Mr Spini purchased five cars from private sellers and sold four of the vehicles in the 12-months to August 2006. At no time did he hold the required Motor Vehicle Dealers Licence.

“Mr Spini went to considerable lengths to mask his backyard dealing. He used three different telephone numbers and advertised the cars in various print media outlets including a weekend newspaper, a specialised trading paper and a car buyer’s magazine,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Patrick Walker said.

“Consumer Protection takes unlicensed dealing very seriously because it undermines the statutory processes put in place to safeguard consumers and the car dealing industry.

“Licensed dealers are bound by statutory and implied warranties under the Act to ensure vehicles are mechanically sound and safe,” Mr. Walker said.

Members of the public should report any suspected unlicensed motor vehicle dealing by telephoning 1300 30 40 54 or by emailing consumer@docep.wa.gov.au mailto:consumer@docep.wa.gov.au .