Key Takeaways:
- People may wish to return a car for several reasons, including mechanical problems, buyer’s remorse, or financial issues.
- Most dealerships do not accept returns unless specified in the sales contract or state laws provide a return window.
- If your car is a lemon, you have legal options under your state’s lemon law and the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
Buying a car is a major commitment, and sometimes, it doesn’t go as planned. If you’re facing unexpected mechanical issues with your vehicle and you think your vehicle is a lemon, it’s important to understand your options for returning your vehicle.
Whether or not you can return your car will depend on several factors. These include dealership policies, state laws, and the reason for the return. Below, we’ll explore your options and what steps to take if you find yourself in this situation.
Can You Return a Car to a Dealership?
In most cases, you cannot return a car to a dealership unless you have a legal basis to do so, i.e. you purchased a lemon. Generally speaking, once you sign the paperwork, the car is yours. Unlike retail purchases that offer a return period, car dealerships generally do not accept returns unless:
- The dealership offers a buyer’s remorse return policy in writing (rare but possible for used cars at some dealers).
- You purchased a contract cancellation option agreement before buying a used vehicle for less than $40,000 (only an option in California).
- You leased the vehicle, and the leasing contract includes a return option (may incur fees).
Although you can’t return a car in most cases, there are some exceptions.
Understanding When You Can Return Your Car
There are several reasons why you might want to return a car. But not all situations qualify for a return.
1. Your Car Is Defective (Lemon Law Protection)
If your car has ongoing issues that the manufacturer fails to repair after multiple repair attempts, it may qualify as a lemon.
What to do: Lemon laws vary by state, but they generally require the manufacturer to offer appropriate compensation under the law, as long as the defect is (or was) covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Even if you don’t qualify under your state’s lemon law, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, known as the Federal Lemon Law, may protect you.
2. You Feel You Got Ripped Off
If you believe the dealership acted deceptively, you may have legal recourse. Such actions might include misrepresenting the vehicle’s history, inflating the price, or hiding defects. Every state has some type of consumer protection law against fraudulent sales.
What to do: Gather records of any communications you’ve had with the dealer or
manufacturer, review your dealer contract, and consult an attorney. Alternatively, you
can file a complaint with your state’s Attorney General’s office.
Contact an experienced lemon law lawyer to evaluate your case and learn about your rights under the lemon law.
Tips for Avoiding the Need To Return a Car
To avoid returning a car, take these proactive steps before you buy a vehicle:
- Verify the vehicle’s history and condition by obtaining a CARFAX report. Then, if you can, have a trusted mechanic inspect it.
- Take a thorough test drive to check for performance issues, unusual sounds, or other warning signs.
- Carefully review the sales contract and dealer policies. This will help you understand the return process and any limitations.
- Be realistic about loan payments to make sure the vehicle fits within your budget and won’t become a financial burden.
- Clarify any mileage limit or excessive mileage penalties if leasing or financing a vehicle. This can affect trade-in or return options.
- Familiarize yourself with warranty coverage and how it applies to your vehicle. This can be useful if defects arise.
Making an informed decision upfront minimizes the chances of dealing with returns or legal matters later.
What To Do if You Have a Lemon
If you believe your car qualifies as a lemon, don’t wait to take action. Krohn & Moss, Ltd. has helped over 60,000 consumers successfully resolve lemon law claims since 1995. We handle the legal process for you and only get paid if we win or settle your case.
Take our free 60-second Lemon Test today to find out if you qualify! Afterward, contact us for a free case review.
