Will the manufacturer compensate for a new car catching fire within 3 years?
3 Answers
As long as it is within the 3-year warranty period, the manufacturer is required to compensate. The car owner can request compensation from the manufacturer for losses caused by the fire based on the responsibility determination by the fire department. Below is relevant information: 1. Legal Action: If the 4S store refuses to compensate, the owner can file a lawsuit with judicial authorities, as issues with the vehicle itself should not be borne by the consumer. 2. Warranty Period: During the warranty period, if any quality issues (including spontaneous combustion) occur, the manufacturer is responsible for the vehicle's quality. Therefore, for a new car within the 3-year warranty period, the consumer has the right to demand compensation from the manufacturer.
This issue really concerns me. A new car catching fire on its own after just three years sounds terrifying! I've researched the warranty terms—generally, new cars come with a three-year or 60,000-kilometer warranty. If the fire was caused by internal defects, such as battery failure, wiring short circuits, or design flaws, the manufacturer is definitely liable. You should immediately preserve evidence, like fire department reports, on-scene photos, and maintenance records, then contact the dealership or manufacturer's customer service. They should cover repairs or even replace the vehicle for free. However, if the cause stems from aftermarket modifications or external factors, like altered wiring or a collision, you’ll need to file a claim with your car insurance—the manufacturer might dodge responsibility. For prevention, schedule regular maintenance checks and avoid modifying factory parts to prevent disputes later. I’ve also seen news reports where people successfully claimed compensation through consumer complaints or legal action—acting quickly is key. Additionally, new energy vehicles carry higher fire risks, and regulations now hold manufacturers to stricter accountability. If this happens, stay calm and take step-by-step measures to protect yourself.
Having worked in the automotive industry for a long time, I know that manufacturers are indeed liable for compensation if a new car spontaneously combusts within three years. If the spontaneous combustion during the warranty period is caused by factory defects, such as improper wiring aging or component overheating, they must cover repairs or provide compensation. You need to immediately report to the police to obtain a fire report, then have the car towed to a 4S shop for a comprehensive inspection. Technicians will identify the ignition point. Don’t believe the manufacturer’s excuses; with sufficient evidence, just file a complaint on the consumer association platform. For prevention, I recommend minimizing modifications to the electrical system in new cars and having technicians check the condition of high-voltage components during every maintenance to avoid hidden issues. Vehicle insurance can also cover part of the losses, providing double protection for peace of mind. Some brands offer extensive warranty coverage, so don’t delay if this happens—address it promptly to minimize losses.
