WeBuyCars has been hit with an untimely R5.9-million bill just before Christmas. Following a three-year investigation by the National Consumer Commission (NCC), the second-hand vehicle seller was adjudged to have contravened several consumer protection laws. This was confirmed as binding by the National Consumer Tribunal on Friday 19 December 2025.
As a result, WeBuyCars has been ordered to pay R2.5 million in administrative fines. And more importantly, compensate 31 affected consumers to the tune of R3.4 million, reports IOL. Regulators believe the used-car seller did not provide customer remedies that aligned with its sale agreements.
WEBUYCARS FINED AND ORDERED TO PAY BACK MILLIONS
Moreover, according to the settlement agreement published by the NCC, WeBuyCars must also revise its terms and conditions to comply with the Consumer Protection Act (CPA). As such, it must urgently implement a consumer awareness programme focused on the rights its customers. However, it’s worth remembering that WeBuyCars and the used-car market was in a very tough space three years ago .
High inflation, load-shedding and repeated fuel-price hikes meant consumer confidence was at record lows. These factors had a big influence and put increasing pressure on the company to remain profitable. Meanwhile, WeBuyCars was on an aggressive expansion plan. The firm increased inventory space by 25%, as struggling competitors shut their doors. In turn, its market share grew by 15%, selling in the region of 12 000 cars per month.
MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS AGAINST WEBUYCARS
However, in hindsight, this growth may have been too fast. The NCC confirmed it has received multiple complaints over the past three years. These alleged that WeBuyCars’ warranty and terms of sale agreements unlawfully limited consumers’ rights. Following a thorough investigation, the NCC concluded that the company’s contracts did indeed contravene the Consumer Protection Act (CPA).
Hardin Ratshisusu, Acting NCC commissioner said: “This settlement concludes investigations against WeBuyCars on contraventions of the CPA. WeBuyCars (Pty) Ltd is ordered to refund R3 419 971 to the 31 affected consumers. Plus, the company must amend its terms and conditions to ensure full compliance with the CPA. This encompasses creating an additional 300 jobs over the next five years to improve customer service capacity,” he concluded.
But what do you think? Have you bought a car from WeBuyCars? Did your experience make you feel the retailer contravened consumer protection laws? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below …
