How to Claim Compensation for New Car Malfunctions?
3 Answers
If a new car has quality issues, you can request the 4S store to replace or refund it. According to the automobile three-guarantee policy, if a household automobile product meets the replacement conditions and the seller does not have the same brand and model of household automobile product, nor a household automobile product with a configuration not lower than the original car to replace for the consumer, the consumer can choose to return the product, and the seller shall be responsible for the return. Here is relevant information about compensation: 1. Compensation Conditions: Within 60 days from the date the seller issues the purchase invoice or within 3,000 kilometers of driving mileage (whichever comes first), if the household automobile product experiences steering system failure, braking system failure, body cracking, or fuel leakage, and the consumer chooses to replace the household automobile product or return it, the seller shall be responsible for free replacement or return. 2. Compensation Scope: Within the three-guarantee validity period, if two repairs have been cumulatively performed due to serious safety performance failures, and the serious safety performance failures have not been resolved or new serious safety performance failures occur; if the engine or transmission has been cumulatively replaced twice, or the same major component of the engine or transmission has been cumulatively replaced twice due to quality issues, and still cannot be used normally (the replacement counts for the engine, transmission, and their major components are not duplicated); if the same major component of the steering system, braking system, suspension system, front/rear axle, or body has been cumulatively replaced twice due to quality issues, and still cannot be used normally, and the consumer chooses to replace or return the product, the seller shall be responsible for replacement or return.
I just bought a new car last month, but after only a few hundred kilometers, I discovered an issue with the engine. I've researched the compensation process. For new car faults, you can usually claim compensation from the manufacturer. For example, within the warranty period (generally two years or 50,000 kilometers), the manufacturer will repair or replace parts for free. If the problem persists after multiple repairs, you can request a replacement or refund, but you'll need to prepare the purchase invoice, repair records, and photo evidence. China's Three Guarantees policy supports consumers, so don't let the 4S dealership fool you. Be brave and file a complaint with the Consumer Association or take legal action. I successfully got a new car replacement—though the process was frustrating, it was worth it. Remember, avoid modifying the car or attempting unauthorized repairs, as this will void the warranty and affect your compensation claim.
As someone who often helps friends with car issues, compensation for new car faults depends on the warranty terms. Most new cars come with manufacturer warranties covering core component failures. Compensation includes free repairs, replacements, or refunds—the key is to promptly contact the dealer to report the issue without delay. In China, the Three Guarantees policy for household cars is quite robust, allowing you to request a replacement if the car isn’t fixed after multiple attempts. Keep all receipts handy, and be straightforward when communicating—they’ll take you more seriously. It’s best to document every repair detail. If denied, file a complaint directly with the Market Supervision Bureau to prevent minor issues from escalating. The process can be a bit complex, but protecting your rights is what matters.
