I know its been a while but I thought I should log in and give you all an update. Long story short, seller decided to ignore me so I took him to small claims court and the judge ruled in my favour. I think its important for people to hear success stories like this as far too many people believe they dont have a leg to stand on after a private sale but I am sorry you most definitely have rights. Its also an excellent warning to any other would be **** bags trying to fleece people with their wrecked motors, sell to the wrong person and it will come back to bite you in the arse. The seller of my car is now down over £1k & has a CCJ for the next 10 yrs. Thanks for your comments every one

It's definitely head gasket. Both the AA mechanic and my mechanic agree. I googled 'signs of head gasket failure' prior to viewing the car. The signs were emulsification around the oil cap, and on dip stick, 'dirty' water and pressure in the coolant tank. No signs of any of these at purchase, however after less than 20 miles driving it, all signs are there. There's no doubt in my mind whatsoever. Update on progress. Seller has been mostly unresponsive, basic letter saying as far as he was concerned it was fine when he sold it so if I wanna take him to court, go ahead. He seems to be relying on the fact that my mechanic looked it over before I bought it, however in my opinion that goes against him as it shows intent to hide the evidence. Had he not known, the evidence would have been there. So next week the car will be repaired, at my expense, and I'll give him one last chance to pay for repairs, after which i will file a claim at small claims court. BTW £650 is what I have been quoted for the work I seriously hope I win, its both my kids birthdays in 3 weeks, Xmas in 12.... I know a court case wont be settled til well into next year but at least then I can give them a good, if not delayed, birthday!

I have no reason to believe it was not a private sale. Log book clearly in his name, no other cars for sale in the area, when i pulled up he was playing football with a mate in the park opposite his house etc. He was even wearing his work uniform so I know he has a day job. Have had a very interesting conversation with Consumer Direct today who believe I have a good case against him and although if it goes as far as small claims it would be long and drawn out but with the evidence I have they are confident I would win, so small mercies. Now I am off on holiday and going to try not to stress about it til I get home!

@graham, i'm in somerset. I do hope your estimate is nearer the mark! @scaniaman, tried that. after he hung up i sent a text saying that unless he could at least consider assisting with the cost of repairs i will be going to my solicitor. no reply. off on holiday first thing tomorrow so not going to be able to do anything else til i get back!

Yes Graham its a Rover, well, MG to be precise. And what you both say makes sense, the mechanic should have spotted it. First time I have ever asked a mechanic to check a car before buying, and first time I have had a problem with a car straight after buying it! Been quoted £600 for the work but will shop around and as you say, not use that mechanic! Problem is he's a family friend. Thank you for your comments.

Last night I purchased a car, after being inspected by my mechanic. The advert stated good condition, must see. I knew that these cars have a history of gasket problems so i asked the owner and he said its absolutely fine, never had any problems with it. I checked the car over last week and saw no ecidence but as i am no mechanic i took my mechanic back last night before buying. I test drove it and so did my mechanic. This morning, it broke down, and its the head gasket which has gone. The AA Man said that it looks like its been gone or going for a long time. Thing is there was no evidence of it when i purchased it, oil and water looked fresh. I am told that its common for people to hide the evidence, wipe it clean before someone views , change the oil and filter (filter is new), I believe the seller must have known of its problems and had hidden the evidence. I have spoken to the seller who denied knowing of a problem then basically told me to go away and hung up on me. Is there anything I can do to retrieve my money? It took every penny I had to buy this one, and with two young kids I need transport. But because it was a private sale I dont know if I have a leg to stand on. Autotrader have kindly emailed me a copy of the advert which says good condition etc. What can I do?