Can I exchange a new car with a small paint chip when taking delivery?
4 Answers
A small paint chip on a new car at delivery generally cannot be exchanged after payment; only touch-up painting is possible. Check the manufacturing date: Vehicles produced within the last three months are considered new. If the production date exceeds three months, it is classified as inventory stock. Be cautious of purchasing inventory vehicles. Check vehicle documentation: Ensure all certificates and documents are complete, including the vehicle qualification certificate, warranty service card, user manual, and other relevant paperwork. Inspect the exterior: Examine the body for smoothness, scratches, dents, or signs of repainting. Check windows, doors, engine hood, trunk lid, etc., for any friction marks or damage. Inspect the interior: Check seats, steering wheel, and internal components for dirt or damage. Smell for any excessive odors inside the cabin. Check the vehicle mileage: New cars should have no more than 50 kilometers on the odometer. Avoid purchasing new cars with over 50 kilometers.
I bought a brand-new car, but on the day of pickup, I noticed a small paint chip, which really put a damper on my mood—after all, you pay for something to be flawless. I believe I had every right to request a replacement or repair, as this qualifies as a new car defect in the automotive industry. Dealerships typically offer quality guarantees, and the new car warranty policy covers such minor flaws. I immediately took photos and showed them to the salesperson, who arranged for a free touch-up—the process was straightforward. A reminder to everyone: always inspect your car thoroughly before taking delivery, paying close attention to details like the lights, tires, and paintwork. If you spot any issues, insist on repairs and don’t let the dealership brush you off. During the warranty period, minor issues can often be resolved for free, so there’s no need to rush into a replacement, which can be a hassle and delay your plans. From my experience, paint chips on new cars are usually caused by transportation or handling errors and don’t affect overall performance. However, it’s best to address them early to prevent oxidation or spreading.
I just picked up my new car and was excited to drive it home, only to find a small paint chip on the body, which made me worry if it was a quality issue. After asking the salesperson, they said this is common and offered to fix it for free at the dealership, but replacing the entire car wasn't realistic. I took photos and directly spoke with the dealership manager, who quickly arranged for a technician to touch it up at no cost. My advice is not to panic if you encounter this—new cars come with a warranty, and minor flaws can usually be resolved. The key is to spend extra time inspecting corners like the roof or door edges during pickup. Many dealerships offer quick services for such issues, giving you peace of mind. If the dealership hesitates, stand your ground—as consumers, we have the right to protect our interests.
I've been driving for decades, and every time I buy a new car, I encounter minor issues. For instance, this time I noticed a paint chip when picking up the car, which I think is quite normal. The dealer can help with a free touch-up, but getting a replacement car is unlikely since minor flaws don't affect usability. I usually just talk to them directly, and often they can fix it. Everyone should stay calm when picking up a new car and pay attention to services like the new car warranty. During inspection, don't forget to check other areas, such as door handles or the hood, to ensure everything is in order. In short, these minor issues with a new car aren't worth the hassle—just get them fixed and move on.
