Can a new car be returned or exchanged if it malfunctions?
3 Answers
New cars can be returned or exchanged if they malfunction, but there are strict regulations regarding the conditions for returns or exchanges. The relevant regulations on car warranties and returns/exchanges are primarily based on the "Regulations on the Repair, Replacement, and Return of Household Automotive Products" issued by the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine, commonly known as the "Automobile Three Guarantees." Below are the conditions for returning or exchanging a car: 1. Service Target: The service targets household automotive products, which refer to passenger vehicles purchased and used by consumers for personal consumption. If the car is purchased for rental purposes, such as leasing to a car rental company or for ride-hailing services like Didi or Hitch, or for other commercial purposes, it is not covered under the three guarantees for car returns or exchanges. 2. Time Regulations: The time frame for returning or exchanging a car must be within 60 days from the date of the purchase invoice or within 3,000 kilometers of driving (whichever comes first). This means that if more than two months have passed since the purchase, the car generally cannot be returned or exchanged. The warranty period for the car is no less than 3 years or 60,000 kilometers. 3. Other Conditions: If the car has undergone two repairs for the same serious safety performance fault and the fault remains unresolved or a new serious safety performance fault occurs, the consumer may choose to return or exchange the vehicle.
When it comes to whether new car faults can be returned or exchanged, I have some understanding of the relevant laws. According to the automobile three-guarantee regulations, if serious quality issues occur within 7 days of purchasing a new car, such as engine or transmission damage, consumers can directly request a return or exchange. If the same fault occurs between 7 to 60 days and has been repaired twice without being fixed, or if the cumulative repair time exceeds 30 days affecting usage, an application for return or exchange can also be made. It's crucial to keep the purchase invoice and maintenance records and file a complaint at the 4S store. Don't delay beyond the deadline—many car owners have suffered losses by neglecting this. Timely protection of rights is key. The three-guarantee policy is designed to protect our consumer rights, but we must follow the procedures.
A friend of mine bought a new car last year and soon noticed the tires pulling to one side, along with strange noises when braking. He was quite anxious, but later took his purchase contract to the dealership for negotiation. After inspection, the staff confirmed it was a manufacturing defect covered by the warranty, and replaced his car with a new one of the same model at no cost. Throughout the process, he insisted on keeping all evidence, including repair receipts and photos. Consumer rights are quite substantial - don't suffer in silence when encountering new car issues, as active complaints often lead to resolution. Of course, different brands may handle things differently, so choosing a reputable dealer is more reliable.
