Can I Return a New Car with Scratches Upon Delivery?

[Karl]

Manufacturers may offer a replacement, but a refund is not guaranteed. When taking delivery of a new car, it's crucial to inspect the vehicle's condition carefully. Exterior Inspection: The focus should be on the paintwork. First, conduct a thorough check of the vehicle's exterior to see if there are any scratches, especially on the four corners of the car, as minor scrapes can occur during transportation. To avoid any regrets, it's advisable to request moving the car to an outdoor area with good lighting for a detailed inspection. Interior Inspection: Check if all interior equipment is functioning properly. Familiarize yourself with and test all buttons, settings on the dashboard, ensure the interior is clean and new-looking, and verify that all included accessories are present. Finally, take the car for a short drive to confirm all functions are working correctly and the vehicle operates smoothly.

[MacLucia]

I encountered scratches on my new car right after delivery. According to the Consumer Rights Protection Law, you cannot directly return the car because scratches are not considered a core defect, but you have the right to request resolution. For example, carefully inspect the car body before taking delivery, immediately photograph and document any issues, and communicate with the sales manager. Most 4S dealerships will offer free repairs or compensation, such as free maintenance vouchers or a small refund. If the dealer avoids responsibility, you can call the 12315 Consumer Association hotline to file a complaint or take legal action with an inspection record. Scratches are usually a minor issue that don’t affect safety performance, but don’t overlook detailed inspections. Make sure everything is settled before signing for the car to avoid disputes later. Be patient during this process, as businesses also want to protect their reputation. Remember, the three-guarantee policy focuses on core malfunctions—paint issues are easier to resolve, so don’t impulsively give up the opportunity for a new car.

[Max]

My neighbor had a scratch incident right after picking up his new car last month. He didn’t inspect it carefully on the spot and only noticed minor scratches the next day. The dealer refused a refund but offered free repairs at their workshop. This is common practice—getting a full refund is nearly impossible unless the scratches are severe enough to affect usability or conceal hidden damage. My advice: bring a magnifying glass or a friend to inspect the car thoroughly upon delivery. If the salesperson denies responsibility, record video evidence first, then negotiate compensation. What I learned: check every detail before accepting the car, and document any flaws before signing. The bar for returns or exchanges is high, but securing free repairs or discounts is much easier. Don’t lose heart—dealers avoid bad publicity and often settle proactively. Staying calm and working through it is more practical than demanding a refund, especially since new cars come with warranty support.

[JamesonDella]

I've handled this type of issue at the dealership. New cars come with protective packaging from the factory, but minor scratches can occasionally occur during transportation. Returning the car is basically impossible due to the high costs involved. We would first offer free paint repairs or provide other forms of appeasement. Consumers should carefully check the inspection checklist before taking delivery. Minor blemishes don't constitute serious defects. According to contract terms, we can only offer compensation or repairs. If unsatisfied, you can also file a complaint with the manufacturer's customer service. The key is not to panic - resolving issues on-site during delivery is the fastest solution.