Will the 4S Store Compensate for a New Car's Spontaneous Combustion?
4 Answers
As long as you have purchased spontaneous combustion insurance, you can file a claim with the insurance company. Even during the manufacturer's warranty period, you can only approach the insurance company because the manufacturer is also insured. Relevant information is as follows: 1. Spontaneous Combustion: Vehicle spontaneous combustion insurance, officially known as Vehicle Spontaneous Combustion Loss Insurance, is an additional coverage under motor vehicle loss insurance. Owners can only purchase spontaneous combustion insurance after having motor vehicle loss insurance. The insured amount for spontaneous combustion insurance is generally negotiated based on the actual value of the insured vehicle, and the premium is relatively low, usually just a few dozen yuan. After a car catches fire spontaneously, the insurance company will provide corresponding compensation based on the extent of the vehicle's damage. Spontaneous Combustion Loss Insurance covers the insured vehicle's losses caused by fire due to faults in the vehicle's electrical system, wiring, fuel supply system, or the cargo being transported, as well as the necessary and reasonable rescue expenses incurred by the insured to reduce vehicle losses during such an incident. 2. Insurance: The insurer compensates for the actual loss of the insured vehicle within the insured amount specified in the policy item; in case of total loss, compensation is provided within the insured amount specified in the policy item based on the vehicle's actual value at the time of the incident.
If a new car suddenly catches fire, whether the 4S store will compensate depends on the specific circumstances. New cars usually come with a warranty period, such as three years or 60,000 kilometers. If the fire is caused by a manufacturer's design defect, such as a short circuit in the battery or aging circuits, the 4S store, as the sales point, may be responsible for repairs or replacements, since they handle after-sales service. However, if you modified the wiring yourself or parked improperly, leading to the fire, the responsibility would not lie with them. Immediately call the police and contact the 4S store, and keep the fire department report and photos of the scene as evidence. Insurance is also crucial—adding a fire insurance policy when buying the car can cover most losses. For prevention, regularly maintain the electrical system, avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures, and choose a reliable brand for peace of mind. If the 4S store tries to evade responsibility, file a complaint with consumer associations or lawyers, and insist on protecting your rights—don’t be fooled. Safety first—don’t tamper with your new car unnecessarily.
My friend's brand new car caught fire just a few months after purchase, what terrible luck. He immediately contacted the 4S dealership, and after inspection they found it was an issue with the factory-installed battery. Without hesitation, they provided a free replacement vehicle and compensated for some losses. However, if you've modified the wiring yourself, like installing an audio system, the 4S dealership might not take responsibility. Evidence is crucial: photograph the scene, obtain a police report, and don't disturb the site. Within the warranty period, manufacturers are liable for defects and obligated to compensate. Insurance is also helpful, as fire damage coverage typically reimburses such incidents. Generally speaking, most 4S dealerships will handle these situations, as they aim to maintain brand reputation. Shopping tip: choose reputable 4S dealerships, clarify warranty terms, and inspect electrical components upon delivery. The psychological impact after a fire can be significant, so you can request mental distress compensation. Don't give up—seek help from consumer associations or lawyers who know the ropes.
After years of repairing cars, I've often seen new cars self-ignite due to electrical issues, such as poor contact or design bugs. If it happens within the warranty period and isn't caused by human damage, the 4S store should be responsible for inspection and compensation. You need to provide evidence like surveillance footage or professional reports, otherwise they may easily evade responsibility. The compensation process includes negotiating liability—don’t tamper with the car while waiting for resolution. Insurance can cover the financial part. Prevention tips: avoid modifying the original wiring in new cars, regularly check battery life, and keep high-temperature items out of the car. The 4S store’s attitude depends on the cause; persistence will yield results. For safety, stay calm and call the police in case of danger.
