Can a New Car Be Replaced if It Breaks Down Within 20 Days?

[LaTessa]

A new car cannot be replaced if it breaks down within 20 days. Introduction to Car Faults: Car faults refer to phenomena where a car fails to perform its functions, such as difficulty starting the engine, failure to start, oil or water leaks, malfunctioning lighting systems, etc. When a car has a fault, there are usually signs, including sudden changes in performance, abnormal noises, unusual odors, abnormal exhaust smoke, abnormal temperatures, unusual appearances, abnormal fuel or lubricant consumption, and leaks. Common faults are those that occur frequently and are often encountered during use. Heavy Steering: When turning the car, the steering feels unusually heavy and laborious, and the wheels do not return to the straight-ahead position promptly after the turn. This indicates poor technical condition of the steering gear or linkage, incorrect front-wheel alignment, faults in the tires or suspension, or failure of the hydraulic power steering system.

[LaBradley]

I recently encountered a similar situation. My new car developed a fault just 20 days after purchase, which is really frustrating. According to China's Three Guarantees Law, within 60 days or 3,000 kilometers of driving, if major components like the engine or transmission develop problems, or if repeated repairs fail to fix the issue, you can request a replacement or refund. At just 20 days, you're well within this protection period, but the key is the severity of the fault. For instance, major issues like engine failure or steering system problems make a replacement highly likely; but for minor issues like non-functioning air conditioning, they may only offer free repairs. I recommend going to the dealership where you bought the car immediately with your invoice and Three Guarantees certificate—they must follow procedures to inspect and confirm the fault type. If the dealer gives you the runaround, contact the Consumer Association directly and gather evidence like photos and repair records. New car faults aren't just about rights protection; they also remind us to choose reputable brands and services when buying a car to avoid future hassles. Don't lose heart—acting quickly can help you secure your rights.

[JosieFitz]

As a car enthusiast, I have to say it's quite rare for a new car to develop faults within just 20 days, but don't rush to replace it. I've handled many similar cases, and the key lies in the type of fault. Minor issues that can be resolved with simple repairs usually don't warrant a direct replacement. However, for major defects like brake failure or airbag malfunctions, the Three Guarantees Law supports replacement or refund. Since it's only been 20 days, you're definitely within the warranty period—contact the dealer immediately for a comprehensive inspection. I've seen cases where owners successfully replaced their cars, provided the diagnostic report proved the issue existed at the time of manufacture. A reminder: insist on written responses when communicating with the 4S store to avoid verbal promises, and check the fine print in your purchase contract. Don't slack on regular maintenance either; the first three months are the break-in period for a new car, and keeping an eye on its condition can prevent some faults. If repeated repairs fail to fix the issue, don't hesitate—escalate it directly to the manufacturer or consumer association.

[MacGavin]

I often help friends deal with new car problems, and it's quite frustrating when issues arise within 20 days. Whether you can exchange the car depends on the specific issue. If it's a severe manufacturing defect that makes the car unsafe to drive, you might be eligible for a replacement under the Three Guarantees Law. However, minor issues like dashboard display errors usually only warrant repairs. I recommend first visiting the 4S shop for a diagnosis and obtaining a written report—don’t rush into a dispute. A 20-day-old car is still under warranty, so stay calm when asserting your rights and keep all purchase records. Also, consider whether the issue affects daily use—frequent unresolved repairs could disrupt your travel plans. Lastly, when choosing a new car, prioritize brands with good reputations to minimize risks.