Can a New Car Be Replaced Due to Abnormal Noises?
4 Answers
It is unlikely to directly replace a new car due to abnormal noises, but the 4S store has the responsibility and obligation to eliminate the fault. During the warranty period, it is necessary to promptly go to the car after-sales service for handling. Abnormal noises from the car body: First, check whether there are unfixed, easily rolling objects in the trunk or rear seats that may cause noise, and eliminate the possibility of noise caused by improperly fixed items. If abnormal noises are found to be caused by friction at the doors or windows, methods such as applying adhesive tape to the doors and windows or padding rubber at the friction points may reduce or eliminate the noises, but these solutions only address the symptoms, not the root cause. If none of the above issues are found, it is necessary to go to a regular repair shop for inspection and troubleshooting. Abnormal noises from the engine: Abnormal noises from the engine indicate that the technical state of a certain mechanism in the engine has changed. This is mainly caused by excessive wear of some parts or improper assembly and adjustment. Some abnormal noises may even predict potential catastrophic damage to the engine. Therefore, when abnormal noises occur in the engine, timely repairs should be carried out to prevent the fault from expanding. Abnormal noises from the transmission: The transmission has many parts, and the causes of abnormal noises are relatively complex. Check whether the noise is related to specific speeds, such as some planetary gears making noticeable noises at around 50Km/h. Check whether the noise is related to certain gears, which is very important for judging transmission faults. If a certain gear makes noise, it is definitely related to the components affecting the transmission of that gear; if all gears make noise, it is often a fault with the constant-mesh gear shaft or insufficient oil in the transmission. Check whether the noise is related to specific actions, such as shifting gears, starting, rapid acceleration, rapid deceleration, turning, etc., which are effective means for judging abnormal noises. Among these, changing speed and direction are particularly important for determining rear axle faults.
It's indeed frustrating to have strange noises in a brand-new car, but directly exchanging the vehicle is a special case. According to China's three-guarantee policy, only core components like the engine or transmission that still malfunction after two repairs, or issues that severely affect safety, qualify for a return or exchange. Problems like squeaky doors or dashboard vibrations usually require inspection and repair by the 4S shop first. Last time I had a sunroof noise issue, the mechanic fixed it by disassembling and readjusting the sliding rails. I recommend recording the noise and working with after-sales service to troubleshoot—most cases can be resolved. If the shop drags its feet, remember to call the manufacturer's 400 hotline to complain—they're most afraid of that.
It depends on the type and severity of the abnormal noise. Brake squealing or metallic collision sounds from the chassis must be addressed immediately as they may involve safety hazards. If it's the friction noise of interior plastic parts, it's usually an assembly process issue. I've dealt with new car owners seeking rights protection. The first thing to do is: Keep records of three consecutive repairs, clearly describing the fault phenomenon each time. Secondly, if the repair exceeds five days, you can request transportation compensation. Most importantly, if issues like steering system noise are detected within 60 days of purchase, the law supports a vehicle replacement. I recommend scheduling an inspection now; don't wait for the noise to worsen.
As someone who frequently handles car complaints, I can tell you clearly: it's difficult to directly exchange a car just for noise issues. New car after-sales service follows a three-step process: if the noise persists after the first free inspection, a re-inspection must be conducted within 7 days; if the cumulative repair time exceeds 30 days, parts can be replaced; only when there are powertrain failures and repairs have been attempted more than twice does it meet the criteria for a car exchange. Key reminder: every repair must be documented on the work order with "noise issue unresolved"—these paper records are crucial for rights protection. For steering wheel or brake noise, it's recommended to request an on-site test drive with a technician. Tire or suspension noise can usually be resolved with adjustments.
