Brand new motorhome and the DVLA

[SirPooley]

Hi everyone.

Three weeks ago I put a deposit on a new Auto-Sleeper. Two and a half weeks ago I paid the remainder in full.

The dealership is still waiting for the DVLA to register the vehicle and so I am unable to collect it. Last week they had to resubmit the registration with a new reg number after the date turned August 1st. I still have no idea of when I'm actually going to be able to drive away the van I have paid lots of money for.

Is this normal? How long could I be waiting? Is there anything I or the dealership can do to speed up the process? It's all very frustrating.

Thanks.

 

[Tigger-Tim]

Even though our van was registered online, it didn't show on the online system for 2-3 weeks. When it did appear, the registration was dated the day we picked it up.

 

[Lenny HB]

Even though our van was registered online, it didn't show on the online system for 2-3 weeks. When it did appear, the registration was dated the day we picked it up.

The registration date will be the one requested on the V55 form that the dealer filled in.

 

[pelican]

I would get the van delivered to my home address on trade plates

 

[David and Sally]

.

If it is not registered it is not taxed.

but, if the tax is paid for and began earlier that the date you collect it then the paperwork catches up with itself.. So dealer taxes it from July 1st. You collect 10th July but DVLA paperwork arrives 30th July and shows taxed since 1st July.

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[rod_vw]

If you've paid for it in full and have a receipt I assume in law it belongs to you. If that's the case is it insured? Probably not by you as your insurance company would want a registration number. Can the dealer provide written evidence that they are covering its insurance?
If I were you I would be asking for x number of weeks value of holiday time from them backed up with a threat of the small claims court.
Hit them hard, all in writing. They are taking the p1ss like so many dealers do.

 

[Brains]

I would get the van delivered to my home address on trade plates

Do this.
(Possession is 9/10th of the law etc.)

My father bough a new car a few years back.
Had it delivered on trade plates.
It sat on the drive for nearly a month before the paperwork caught up.

It gives you a chance to familiarise yourself with how it all works, add the bits that you need and build up a list of questions.

I'd also ensure it's insured!
As you have paid for it, it's yours,

 

[SirPooley]

I would get the van delivered to my home address on trade plates

Thanks for this advice. I'm giving it another day or two to hear back from the dealership, then I'm going to ask them to do this. They have already suggested it.

 

[Pausim]

Those of you saying it the vehicle must be showing as registered online, I would be grateful if you could show an official reference to this fact.

Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994.
2015 I was informed I could not legally drive before the registration was showing on the .GOV website by Premier Motorhomes. 2019 I was given similar information by Chelston Motorhomes who employ a special administrator for new registrations, she spoke to the DVLA about the delay and was told to advise me not to drive away before it was showing on their system.

 

[gus-lopez]

Thanks for this advice. I'm giving it another day or two to hear back from the dealership, then I'm going to ask them to do this. They have already suggested it.

don't waste time ,do it today & make sure they are on to rthe dvla.

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[Emmit]

I don't know who the dealer is and where you live in relation to dealer but, in the above scenario
I would insist that the van is delivered to a place of your choosing by the dealer, (using Trade plates.)

That would mean that YOUR vehicle would be out of the dealers control.

I appreciate that, in such circumstances, the dealer might cease to effectively apply for the Reg. documentation
with the same efficiency but he/she doesn't seem to be doing much now anyway.

Your vehicle, your rules.

 

[SirPooley]

I really appreciate everyone taking the time to respond, so thank you for that.

I could get a bit spooked by some of the responses(!) but I'm actually confident this is all above board. I should've given a bit more detail in my original post.

It's a very well-known and creditable dealer - it's actually Marquis, owners of the Auto-Sleeper brand. To be fair, I'd not even considered anything dodgy, I was just wondering how normal it was to wait for the DVLA and how long it might take. I asked Marquis but they were vague, which I kind of accepted (it's not in their hands directly, after all). I don't wish to cast any shade on them. They've been great.

Here is what happened, in order.

1. I went to see the van

2. Couple of days later, returned and paid deposit. At this point I was able to choose a reg. The dealer had a list of them that had been allocated.

3. A week later I had transferred the full amount. Dealer said I could pick up the van on the Tuesday 29th. They wanted 5 days between the transfer and the collection but I called them on the day I transferred it, they confirmed they'd received the money and sent me a full receipt that day.

4. I had a reg number so took out full insurance expecting to be driving the van on 29th.

5. Call from dealer on Friday 25th to say they had been told by their head office that the DVLA hadn't yet registered the V55 so I couldn't pick up the van on 29th because it wasn't legal to drive it (the actual vehicle itself wasn't registered, let alone me). They suggested I go down to see them again and get the full 'training session' they provide which takes about 90 mins. That would mean that when the DVLA pulled their finger out, it would be simply a case of collecting the keys and driving off. I did that last Thursday (31st). On that day I had to pick a new reg number (again, from an allocated list) as it now wasn't going to get registered until after September 1st.

And that's where I am today. Just sitting waiting. It's annoying because I am a completely free agent and can go anywhere whenever I like with no ties. The latter half of this week would've been the perfect few days for my first trip out somewhere. Fantastic weather and all the schools back (well, those that are structurally sound, at least).

As a couple of people have replied, I have heard elsewhere that it could take up to FOUR WEEKS, which seems ridiculous. I knew the DVLA don't have the greatest reputation for efficiency, but that's taking the mick.

Another option I have is to get them to deliver it to me on trade plates (thanks Broken Link Removed). I have plenty of space on the drive and I've installed a lockable gate etc. ready for it all, so if I've not heard in the next couple of days, that's what I'm going to do, and I can at least spend some time tinkering and learning the ropes while I await the Does Very Little Again.

 

[Emmit]

Noting that you will? may? have a van with a 'New' Registration, I have good news, (and possibly) bad news.

First the good,
Potentially, your van will have a notional increase in value, 'down the line' because it has the 'New' 1stSept. Reg.

Now the Bad?

The Insurance Co. will probably insist on you giving them more money because of the change to the Reg. you originally gave them.

Swings and Roundabouts.

 

[SirPooley]

Noting that you will? may? have a van with a 'New' Registration, I have good news, (and possibly) bad news.

First the good,
Potentially, your van will have a notional increase in value, 'down the line' because it has the 'New' 1stSept. Reg.

Now the Bad?

The Insurance Co. will probably insist on you giving them more money because of the change to the Reg. you originally gave them.

Swings and Roundabouts.

Thanks for this. Fortunately it's good news and good news!

As you say, it'll ultimately make the van that bit more valuable as it's 'six months newer'.

I called the insurance company last week to change the reg. They did it and said that as it was within 15 days of taking out the policy, it would be free and they've put the new paperwork in the post.

Now all I need is the bloody van!

 

[ontheroadagain]

but, if the tax is paid for and began earlier that the date you collect it then the paperwork catches up with itself.. So dealer taxes it from July 1st. You collect 10th July but DVLA paperwork arrives 30th July and shows taxed since 1st July.

And if the paperwork gets lost in the post, has been completed incorrectly etc, you will be driving about in a vehicle that is not registered or taxed.
This actually happened to us where the paperwork was returned three weeks later as the dealer had sent the wrong fee.
Too risky in my opinion.
Getting it delivered on trade plates is the best option.

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[VXman]

Noting that you will? may? have a van with a 'New' Registration, I have good news, (and possibly) bad news.

First the good,
Potentially, your van will have a notional increase in value, 'down the line' because it has the 'New' 1stSept. Reg.

Now the Bad?

The Insurance Co. will probably insist on you giving them more money because of the change to the Reg. you originally gave them.

Swings and Roundabouts.

Thanks for this. Fortunately it's good news and good news!

As you say, it'll ultimately make the van that bit more valuable as it's 'six months newer'.

I called the insurance company last week to change the reg. They did it and said that as it was within 15 days of taking out the policy, it would be free and they've put the new paperwork in the post.

Now all I need is the bloody van!

The only 'benefit' down of a new reg is bragging rights if that sort of thing floats your boat. In subsequent months/years it will be the oldest car/van of that 6 months so actually a deterrent to the knowledgeable buyer. to be honest though, I doubt it makes any difference in value after 2/3 years.

On the registration issue. I bought mine brand new and the dealer had pre assigned reg number. However they had to do the reg process by post. (not all dealers do online - I'm not sure why) They also got the fee wrong so the DVLA sent the paperwork back. I discovered this 4 weeks on when it hadn't appeared on the database. In the end it took 8 weeks. In that time I drove it on several trips blissfully unaware.

 

[HarryML7]

I have taken a keen interest in this subject as I too am awaiting documents from the DVLA however my dealer rightly or wrongly has said the vehicle is OK to drive on the public roads.

Extract from Excise and Registration Act

(2)Subject to subsection (4), if the person convicted has before the date of the offence notified the Secretary of State of his acquisition of the vehicle in accordance with regulations made by the Secretary of State, the relevant period begins with—

(a)the date on which the notification was received by the Secretary of State, or

 

[SirPooley]

I have taken a keen interest in this subject as I too am awaiting documents from the DVLA however my dealer rightly or wrongly has said the vehicle is OK to drive on the public roads.

Extract from Excise and Registration Act

(2)Subject to subsection (4), if the person convicted has before the date of the offence notified the Secretary of State of his acquisition of the vehicle in accordance with regulations made by the Secretary of State, the relevant period begins with—

(a)the date on which the notification was received by the Secretary of State, or

Is it brand new? I believe there is a different between driving while you are awaiting ownership transfer being registered, and the vehicle itself being registered to drive on the roads.

 

[HarryML7]

Is it brand new? I believe there is a different between driving while you are awaiting ownership transfer being registered, and the vehicle itself being registered to drive on the roads.

Yes brand new.

 

[SirPooley]

Yes brand new.

Odd. That goes against everything I've heard about the need to register the vehicle before it can be driven on the public road.
I've just read all of your original message and it's referring to a person who has been convicted!!

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[the1andonly]

I had simular problems when i bought min 5 years ago again a large dealer mone y cleared day before . Halfeway through day got told the reg wasnt through been applied for 3 weeks previous. I said no problem im driving it home. Well two hours later im driving it home on trade plates. A few days later i got all the paperwork back from DVLA some form not filled in properly. A driver picked up paperwork and plates. Van still on drive 2 week, but at leasr it was on my drive.

 

[HarryML7]

Odd. That goes against everything I've heard about the need to register the vehicle before it can be driven on the public road.
I've just read all of your original message and it's referring to a person who has been convicted!!

yes the convicted bit is worrying however in my case im reading it as the keeper has submitted the paperwork before the offence therefore..... . I cant find anything to say must not which I can use to hit the dealer with.

 

[rod_vw]

SirPooley you are being so kind to this dealer, large and we'll known that they are. But at the end of the day you are suffering for their total incompetence. For that you deserve some compensation, maybe you can pressure them into some nice accessories or perhaps the first couple of services FOC. Things like that could be to your benefit and of little capital cost to them, after all they have no doubt made a nice lump from the sale of the vehicle to you.

 

[SirPooley]

SirPooley you are being so kind to this dealer, large and we'll known that they are. But at the end of the day you are suffering for their total incompetence. For that you deserve some compensation, maybe you can pressure them into some nice accessories or perhaps the first couple of services FOC. Things like that could be to your benefit and of little capital cost to them, after all they have no doubt made a nice lump from the sale of the vehicle to you.

How apt that you have said that!

They said the first service is on them, there's a full tank of fuel and they've given me a 19" Avtex TV and soundbar that wasn't mentioned in the original 'extras' package.

 

[Pausim]

I have taken a keen interest in this subject as I too am awaiting documents from the DVLA however my dealer rightly or wrongly has said the vehicle is OK to drive on the public roads.

Extract from Excise and Registration Act

(2)Subject to subsection (4), if the person convicted has before the date of the offence notified the Secretary of State of his acquisition of the vehicle in accordance with regulations made by the Secretary of State, the relevant period begins with—

(a)the date on which the notification was received by the Secretary of State, or

There have been several changes since 1994.

Unregistered Campervan

I have just bought a brand new Compass CV40 which the dealer registered and taxed (inc first reg fee) on the day prior to it being delivered to me. I have insured the vehicle and then checked the DVLA data base but the van was not showing . I queried this with the dealer who informed me that...

www.motorhomefun.co.uk

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[Bubba]

Hi everyone.

Three weeks ago I put a deposit on a new Auto-Sleeper. Two and a half weeks ago I paid the remainder in full.

The dealership is still waiting for the DVLA to register the vehicle and so I am unable to collect it. Last week they had to resubmit the registration with a new reg number after the date turned August 1st. I still have no idea of when I'm actually going to be able to drive away the van I have paid lots of money for.

Is this normal? How long could I be waiting? Is there anything I or the dealership can do to speed up the process? It's all very frustrating.

Thanks.

Can you ask the dealer to borrow their trade plates to at least take your property home.

 

[rod_vw]

How apt that you have said that!

They said the first service is on them, there's a full tank of fuel and they've given me a 19" Avtex TV and soundbar that wasn't mentioned in the original 'extras' package.

Good on you.
I'm afraid we Brits aren't prone to complaining but if done politely and firmly it often pays off. May be even to the extent of improving service in the end.
Three weeks ago I complained to Le Shuttle about a three hour delay and instantly had a £90 voucher.
Eight months ago I wrote a long complaint about how I was 'not' treated in our local A&E department, that has resulted in a patient safety review in said hospital as it reveled previously unreported deficiencies in their procedures. No help to me but maybe to someone else in the future.

 

[Captain Yoghurtpot]

The only 'benefit' down of a new reg is bragging rights if that sort of thing floats your boat. In subsequent months/years it will be the oldest car/van of that 6 months so actually a deterrent to the knowledgeable buyer. to be honest though, I doubt it makes any difference in value after 2/3 years

I don't get this.
The oldest van of that 6 months??
A deterrent to a knowledgeable buyer??
Surely it's the actual manufacture date of the entire vehicle that's important?

 

[Larrynwin]

DVLA - WFH .

 

[VXman]

I don't get this.
The oldest van of that 6 months??
A deterrent to a knowledgeable buyer??
Surely it's the actual manufacture date of the entire vehicle that's important?

Someone said that having a new vehicle on 1st September means it's worth more than other vans of that reg/year.

My point was that a reg changes every 6 months. So, if you were looking to buy a van registered on 1.9.2020 for example it would be the oldest van of that 6 month period of registration. One registered 31st March 2021 would be newer.

Knowledgeable - meaning if you look at the V5 date of registration aa opposed to just looking at the number plate.

Yes - I suppose the date of manufacture is possibly more important. I've no idea how easy that is to find. I bought mine off the forecourt (not registered) in March 2021 (Actually registered April 1st 2021) I guess it could have been there for a number of months and I wonder how long it had sat in Germany before it was shipped to the UK. No idea.

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[pelican]

I don't get this.
The oldest van of that 6 months??
A deterrent to a knowledgeable buyer??
Surely it's the actual manufacture date of the entire vehicle that