Used car - dud battery "not covered under warranty"

[kinkyfuckery]

Purchased a used car from a dealer on 30/09, collected and paid balance on 06/09.
Drove it home that day, and out for a drive later that afternoon.

Couple of days later noticed it had a slow puncture, so went to change for the spare wheel, and found the battery was flat. Had it jump started, and got tyre changed. Found battery was flat again a few days later.

My dad took the battery away to charge and found it is not holding a charge. I don't know much about cars, but my dad said "Battery not holding a charge. keeps tripping charger all cells full." He emailed dealer yesterday to request it be replaced, and was told "unfortunatly its not covered under warranty"

Can they do this? Surely as battery was knackered when they sold it, they have to replace it as it wasn't fit for purpose? They must have had to damn well jump start it before it's MOT and before we collected it!!

What are my rights? Thanks.

It is a shame minky. On paper, the car is perfect for my needs

If they'd replaced the battery, I wouldn't have gone looking for more information and discovered what I have. I think I'd be willing to settle if they replace the battery and a partial refund. It's not looking likely the car will make it through its next MOT, which is far removed from what they advised me on purchase.

If you have £1500 to spend, that can get you a good car these days. Dealers always add at least 500 to the car's value though. Buy one private sale and take an AA or Rac mechanic with you. You'll get a better car for the same money.