Can You Refuse to Take Delivery of a Car Older Than 3 Months?
3 Answers
You can refuse to take delivery of the car. After placing an order for a motor vehicle, you can request that the production date of the vehicle must fall within a specified time frame. If it exceeds this period, you have the right to refuse delivery. Below are specific details about vehicle delivery inspection: 1. Check the vehicle's paint: Inspect for any scratches or wear on the paint. Observe under ample sunlight to check for color discrepancies. Open the doors and adjust them to various angles to examine the sheet metal for smoothness under different lighting conditions. 2. Inspect the bodywork: Examine the gaps between components such as the front hood, doors, fuel cap, taillights, and headlights to ensure they are even. Uneven gaps may indicate that parts have been replaced. 3. Check the vehicle's identification plate: The vehicle's identification plate is located on the side of the driver's door or inside the engine compartment. Verify that the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) matches. 4. Assess the vehicle's wear: Check if the tire tread hairs are intact and inspect the undercarriage for any signs of scraping.
Whether you can refuse to take delivery of a car that's been in stock for over 3 months mainly depends on the terms in the purchase contract. Many contracts have clear provisions regarding the production date. If the car exceeds the specified period, you can insist on refusing delivery; otherwise, you might be in breach of contract. New cars parked for extended periods may experience battery drain or tire deformation, but these issues aren't inevitable. I recommend checking all functions upon delivery, especially the ignition and lighting systems, and requesting a test report from the dealer if necessary. If the contract doesn't specify, you can negotiate for a return or compensation, but don't forget that the consumer rights hotline 12315 can assist. Adding a time clause before signing can help avoid such troubles and protect your rights.
From car buying experience, it's quite common to find vehicles in stock for over 3 months. I usually inspect the car's condition first. If it starts normally, the tires aren't cracked, and the paint is intact, it's acceptable - you might even negotiate a better price. During pickup, insist on test driving to check all functions. Don't just focus on appearance; the internal electronic systems are more crucial. If something feels off, try refusing - dealers usually have contingency plans like offering maintenance vouchers. Remember, three months doesn't make much difference mechanically, but don't overthink it. The key is ensuring the car is road-safe.
