Westbury motor trader prosecuted for selling faulty and misdescribed vehicles
Benjamin John Meacham fined over consumer rights violations
A Westbury motor trader has been fined £6,600 following an investigation into the sale of faulty and inaccurately described vehicles by Wiltshire Council's Trading Standards officers.
Benjamin John Meacham, 35, of Phipps Close, Westbury, pleaded guilty at Salisbury Magistrates' Court on 18th August to three offences related to sales through Meachams Car Centre and Meachams Car Centre Westbury Ltd.
The court fined him £1,400 and ordered an additional £2,600 payment, which includes £980 in prosecution costs, £1,060 in compensation, and a £560 victim surcharge.
Complaints from two consumers triggered the prosecution after they purchased defective vehicles and faced refusal when seeking refunds under their legal rights.
One case involved a Westbury resident who bought a Ford KA for £2,200 in March 2025, noticing a flashing odometer during a test drive. Despite assurances from Mr Meacham of repairs, further issues arose post-purchase, leading to the vehicle becoming non-operational. Requests for a refund were persistently denied.
Another complaint pertained to the sale of a Fiat 500L to a Melksham resident in June 2025 for £1,850. It was revealed that the vehicle had been a Category S insurance write-off, a designation for structural damage, which was not disclosed prior to the sale, although Trading Standards discovered this information was available to Meachams Car Centre.
Attempts by the customer to reject the vehicle due to the inaccurate description were met with refusal and a lack of response to her request for a refund.
Cllr Paul Sample, Cabinet Member for Public Protection, stressed the imperative of consumers being able to make informed decisions based on accurate vehicle information when purchasing from traders.
He affirmed the council's commitment to ensuring compliance with legal obligations and safeguarding consumer rights against unfair trading practices.
Prospective car buyers are advised to utilise the Buy With Confidence scheme, which features businesses audited by Trading Standards.
Individuals who believe they have encountered similar issues are encouraged to contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service at 0808 223 1133 or visit their website for support.
For further details on Trading Standards approved businesses, visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk.