In Louisiana, you generally cannot return a new car simply because you changed your mind. Unlike some consumer goods, new vehicles are considered major purchases and are typically sold "as-is" unless a specific return policy is offered. Your ability to return the car hinges on three main scenarios: a violation of the state's Lemon Law, a breach of warranty by the manufacturer, or if the dealer explicitly offers a return policy.
Louisiana's Lemon Law (Louisiana Revised Statutes 51:1941) protects new car buyers if a significant defect impairs the vehicle's use, value, or safety. The defect must occur within the first 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first) and must not be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts (typically three or four for the same issue, or one attempt for a serious safety defect). If the car qualifies as a "lemon," the manufacturer is required to either replace the vehicle or provide a refund.
Some high-volume dealerships or used car superstores might offer a short-term return policy, often 3 to 7 days. This is not a legal requirement but a promotional tool. You must review your sales contract carefully to see if such a clause exists. Absent these specific conditions, your options are limited to selling the car privately or trading it in, which will result in financial loss due to immediate depreciation.
| Louisiana Lemon Law Key Criteria | Details |
|---|
| Coverage Period | 12 months or 12,000 miles from delivery |
| Number of Repair Attempts | 3-4 attempts for the same defect, or 1 attempt for a serious safety defect |
| Out-of-Service Days | 30 or more cumulative days for repairs |
| Required Notification | Written notice to the manufacturer must be sent via certified mail |
| Potential Remedies | Replacement vehicle or full purchase price refund (minus a reasonable allowance for use) |
