Can you trust a used-cars dealer in the UK?

Sorry for the somewhat provocative topic

But fact is, here in Denmark, buying a used car you really have got to know what you're looking for. Almost opposite of Germany, where my experience tells me that people are very honest about the cars condition when it comes to selling a used car.

So, what can I expect if I'm heading off to the UK in search of a used Jimny

Hope you get my point. If not, let me know and I'll try to rephrase myself

Thanks,
Tom

Although we enjoy the protection of The sale of Goods Act, Caveat Emptor still very much applies.

Just remember that there is always something wrong with a second hand car. If you are very lucky, it may just be too small for a growing family, or the registration is too old. (wishful thinking)

The bulk of cars in small car sales come from auctions, the trader has no more idea what is wrong with them than you do.

The fun part is when you discover what is wrong with it, and trying to get the dealer to sort it out.
If a car is knowingly mis-described (one careful owner, new engine fitted etc.) you can get your money back, and the trader can be prosecuted. This is why all "low mileage" cars bear a sticker that says the mileage cannot be guaranteed.

So as with all other deals on used items, I just have to let common sense rule

Since the plan is to drive the car back to Denmark, I hope to find a Jimny in a condition that let's me drive it right after signing the papers

You should get a good price reduction, as they like to "service" and "prep" used cars before you take them. If you intend to drive it away and export it (so you won't come back) they will come down.
They won't guarantee it though (reasonable: if you won't let them service it they can hardly take responsibility for something they would have spotted and fixed)

I bought mine with a cash offer I'll drive it away now: seemed allright when I drove it.

When the rain stopped I discovered the seized brake calliper

When I found out about the online MOT system I discovered it has done 110,000 miles, not the 60,000 on the odometer :S

The short answer is no you can't as a general rule trust second hand car dealers.
Sometimes they are ignorant, sometimes they are just sneaky cheats.
Very rarely have I found a car salesman and thought I could trust them (and I have purchased a lot of cars!).

Also be aware that if you are looking for an older car they are likely to be in sold along with general cars so the salesman won't know the finer points of the Jimny motoring.

There are some great cars out there and some good salesman I am sure just go fully loaded with as much info as you can. If possible think about buying privately too.

Edit: if you could find a car for sale near Harwich you wouldn't need to drive it far to the ferry! Then its just the drive to wherever you live in denmark (I guess if you live in Copenhagen its a long way though!)

There are a couple for sale on here might be worth asking about