How Long Do I Have to Return a Car to a Dealership?

Purchasing a car is a big decision, and it’s not uncommon for buyers to have second thoughts after driving off the forecourt.

Whether it’s a new or used vehicle, sometimes a purchase just doesn’t feel right, leaving you wondering if you can return the car to the dealership.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about returning a car, debunk some myths, and explain your rights as a buyer.

Understanding Dealership Return Policies

Let’s start with the basics: car purchases are generally considered final.

Unlike a new pair of shoes, returning a car is not as straightforward.

Most dealerships don’t offer a universal return policy, which means that once you’ve signed on the dotted line, the car is yours.

That said, some dealerships do offer return policies, particularly on new cars.

It’s always worth checking the fine print or asking the dealership before making your purchase.

For instance, some dealerships might offer a 7-day return window, while others might have a mileage limit within which you can return the vehicle if you’re not satisfied.

However, these policies are exceptions, not the rule.

If you’re curious about what to do when things go wrong with your purchase, check out our page on what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car in the UK.

What is a Buyer’s Remorse or Cooling-Off Period?

A common misconception is that you have a statutory “cooling-off period” to return a car, no questions asked.

Unfortunately, this doesn’t apply to car purchases made at a dealership.

In the UK, cooling-off periods generally apply to door-to-door sales, online purchases, or certain finance agreements.

For cars bought directly from a dealership, there is no automatic right to return the vehicle just because you’ve changed your mind.

The only time a cooling-off period might apply is if you agreed to the deal off-premises, such as at your home, but this is rare.

Can You Return a New Car?

If you’ve bought a new car and decide it’s not right for you, your options largely depend on the dealership’s return policy.

Some dealers offer short return periods, typically between 7 to 30 days, but these come with strict conditions, like keeping the mileage low or returning the car in its original condition.

It’s important to note that these return policies are voluntary and set by the dealership.

They are not legally required to accept returns, so it’s essential to understand the terms of any return policy before purchasing.

Wondering how to negotiate with dealerships? Take a look at our page on how much a dealership will come down on price for a new car in the UK.

Can You Return a Used Car?

The rules for returning a used car are generally more stringent than for new cars.

When you buy a used vehicle, it’s often sold ‘as seen,’ which means you accept the car in its current condition.

However, if the car turns out to be faulty or doesn’t match the description provided, you have stronger grounds for a return under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

In this case, you may have up to 30 days to reject the car and get a refund if it’s not of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, or as described.

But remember, this only applies to faults or misrepresentations, not a change of heart.

What Are Your Rights When Returning a Car?

In the UK, your rights as a consumer are protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which is particularly relevant when the vehicle you’ve purchased is faulty or not as described.

You have the right to reject the car within 30 days and receive a full refund if there’s a problem with the vehicle that existed at the time of purchase.

After 30 days, your rights shift slightly, and you may still be entitled to a repair, replacement, or partial refund.

It’s also worth noting that some dealerships may offer extended warranties or return periods as part of their sales package, but these are not legally mandated.

What is the Process for Returning a Car?

If you’re in the position of needing to return a car, the process can be a bit daunting.

But with the right preparation, it’s manageable.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Check the terms: Before heading back to the dealership, review the terms of the sale or any return policies that were mentioned.
• Contact the dealership: It’s always best to start by contacting the dealer. Explain your situation, whether it’s a fault with the car or another issue, and ask them how to proceed.
• Prepare documentation: Gather all the necessary paperwork, including your sales contract, warranty documents, and any communication you’ve had with the dealership.
• Return the car: Depending on the dealership’s policy, they may require the car to be returned in pristine condition, with minimal mileage, and with all original accessories. Make sure the car is as clean and tidy as possible to avoid any disputes.

For guidance on the servicing process at dealerships, have a look at how long it takes to service a car at a dealership.

Are There Fees or Penalties for Returning a Car?

Even if a dealership does allow you to return a car, it’s rarely free of charge.

You may face restocking fees, or the dealer might deduct a percentage of the car’s value for depreciation, especially if you’ve driven it for several days or added significant mileage.

Some dealerships may also charge for wear and tear or if the vehicle is not in its original condition.

It’s always best to clarify these potential charges beforehand to avoid any nasty surprises.

Alternatives to Returning a Car

If returning the car isn’t an option or if the dealership refuses, you still have other routes to explore.

These include:

• Trading it in: Many dealerships will allow you to trade in the car for another model. While this might not get you a full refund, it could help you swap for something more suitable.
• Selling privately: If returning or trading in isn’t viable, selling the car privately might be an option. However, this can take time and might not recoup the full value.
• Voluntary repossession: In extreme cases, where you can’t afford the payments on a financed car, you could consider voluntary repossession. While this will affect your credit score, it’s better than falling into arrears.

How to Avoid the Need to Return a Car

Nobody wants the hassle of returning a car, so it’s best to take a few steps to ensure you’re making the right purchase from the start.

Here are some tips:

• Test drive: Always take the car for a thorough test drive to ensure it’s the right fit for your needs and that it performs as expected.
• Check the paperwork: Make sure to review all documentation before signing anything. This includes the return policy, warranty details, and finance agreement.
• Get a second opinion: For used cars, it’s always worth getting an independent inspection. This way, you’ll know exactly what you’re buying and avoid any unpleasant surprises later.

If you’re planning on paying cash for your car, check out our page on how to pay cash for a car at a dealership.

Conclusion

In most cases, returning a car to a dealership isn’t as simple as returning an item to a shop.

Whether you can return a car largely depends on the dealership’s specific return policy and the condition of the vehicle.

It’s essential to understand your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, especially if the vehicle is faulty or misrepresented.

Before making any purchase, take the time to do your homework, ask the right questions, and ensure you’re fully satisfied with the vehicle.

By doing so, you can avoid the headache of trying to return a car and drive away with peace of mind.

FAQ Section

Can I return a car within 30 days of purchase?

Yes, but only if the car is faulty or not as described, according to the Consumer Rights Act. Otherwise, it depends on the dealership’s return policy.

What if the car I purchased is faulty?

You have 30 days to reject the vehicle and request a full refund if it’s faulty or doesn’t match the description. For more information, visit our guide on what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car in the UK.

Can I return a financed car to the dealership?

Financing adds complexity. You would need to check the terms of the finance agreement and possibly deal with the finance company directly.

What happens if I exceed the mileage limit for a return policy?

You may incur penalties or fees if you exceed the mileage limit set by the dealership’s return policy.

Can I return a car after signing the contract?

Once the contract is signed, returning a car is generally not possible unless the dealership offers a return policy or there is a fault with the vehicle.

Are you looking to buy a new used car? Contact us today and we can help you!