The Consumer Rights Act 2015 replaced three big pieces of consumer legislation - the Sale of Goods Act, Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations and the Supply of Goods and Services Act. 

The Consumer Rights Act introduces: 

• 30 days to get a refund:

For the first time a specific timeframe has been created in which you can reject a faulty item and get a full refund - now 30 days 

• A 'tiered' remedy system:

In place for faulty goods, digital content and services, this means your rights to a refund are now more clearly set out. Whether you're entitled to a refund depends on how long you've owned the product. 

• Failed repairs:

After one failed attempt by the retailer to repair or replace a faulty item, you're entitled to ask for a refund or price reduction.  

• A second repair or replacement:

If you don't want a refund or price reduction, you have the right to request another repair or replacement at no cost to you. 

• Deductions from refunds:

  No deduction can be made from a refund in the first six months after purchase. The only exception to this is motor vehicles, where a reasonable reduction may be made for the use you’ve had of the vehicle. 

• Digital content rights:

  This new law gives consumers rights in relation to online digital content that is paid for, digital content supplied free with other paid for items and digital content supplied on a physical medium, such as a DVD. 

• Unfair terms in consumer contracts:

  It will now be easier for consumers to challenge hidden fees and charges.  Now the key terms of a contract, including price, may be assessed for fairness unless they’re both prominent and transparent.   

• Pre-contract information:

  The Consumer Rights Act states that if a retailer provides pre-contract information in relation to a service and you take this information into account, the service must comply with that information. 

Useful links (courtesy of Which)

Their guide to what you can do if you have a faulty product

Their guide to what to do if you have faulty digital content

Their guide to your rights if you've bought a second hand car

Their guide to how to challenge an unfair term in a contract

Additional advice:

• Get further advice on consumer issues from Citizens Advice

• Your local Highway Members Support sessions