More onus could be put on dealers to ensure any used cars are up to date with recall requirements in the future, according to the Vehicle Remarketing Association.

It warns that some dealers have been questioned on the matter by consumer bodies, concerned that some people might buy a vehicle unaware of whether it has been recalled or not.

VRA board member Jonathan Butler, of specialist automotive law firm Geldards said: “Trading Standards appear to be looking quite closely at used car sales where retailers have not notified customers that vehicles are the subject of outstanding manufacturer recalls.

“This might be seen as a product safety issue under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 other than in certain exceptions.

“However, it is not a clear area and one where some dealers could, unless they are very careful, potentially find themselves encountering difficulties.”

Butler believes problems might especially arise where dealers do not opt for the outstanding recall option when undertaking vehicle history checks.

The issue is to be discussed at the next VRA meeting. Butler suggested recall checks and remedies should form part of best practice in vehicle preparation.