What are the conditions for returning or exchanging a car under the 2021 Automobile Three Guarantees Law?
2 Answers
The conditions for returning or exchanging a car under the 2021 Automobile Three Guarantees Law are as follows: the cumulative repair time of the vehicle exceeds 35 days within the validity period. If the same product issue occurs and has been repaired more than five times. The vehicle has serious safety faults and has undergone two repairs. Within 60 days of purchase or within 3,000 kilometers of driving, there are issues with the steering or braking system. Calculation of the Three Guarantees period: It is calculated from the date of vehicle purchase, which is the date on the motor vehicle purchase invoice, not from the date of order placement or the production date of the vehicle. These points need to be clearly noted. Additionally, attention should be paid to the vehicle's warranty period, which is determined based on either the mileage driven or the time in use, whichever comes first. Free repair items: Free repairs can only be performed at the brand's after-sales service departments. You can visit any regional after-sales service department of the brand for repairs. When going for repairs, you need to bring the motor vehicle registration certificate and the motor vehicle user manual.
I remember the 2021 Automobile Three Guarantees Policy had strict rules on vehicle returns/exchanges, mainly based on the severity and timing of malfunctions. If you encounter critical issues like steering system failure, brake failure, or severe body cracks within 60 days of purchase or 3,000 kilometers driven (whichever comes first), you can directly request a return or exchange. These conditions essentially protect your road safety—don't stubbornly drive a faulty car. After this initial period, within the Three Guarantees coverage (typically 2 years or 50,000 kilometers), if the same problem remains unresolved after 5 repair attempts or cumulative repair time exceeds 35 days hindering usage, you can apply for a return/exchange. I've seen experienced drivers use this to protect their rights, saving money and hassle. Always read the contract terms carefully before signing when buying a car—don’t rush. If issues arise, contact the dealership first, and if negotiations fail, seek help from consumer associations.
