I bought a car, can I return it? We clear up your doubts about returning a car after purchase!
Well, disaster, your newly bought automotive gem has turned out to be a flop. Hidden technical faults, seizure by a bailiff or a lapsed inspection are just some of the defects you may spot after buying a car. What then? After the disappointment comes frustration, and right after it, action. We'll tell you in which situations you can return a car you've bought, how much time you have to do it and what's worth knowing before you present your claims to the seller.
Can I give a car back after buying it?
It depends on the reason you want to do it. It's certainly not easy to return a vehicle without giving a significant reason (because, say, you bought it on an emotional impulse or urgently need cash), and the guarantee of returning a car within 7 days is a myth repeated by many internet users. What does the UOKiK (the Polish Office of Competition and Consumer Protection) say? Under the regulations only in the case of an online or off-premises sale do you have the right to withdraw from a car purchase agreement within 14 days. You have a bit more time to return the vehicle, but note, a car sale usually takes place in person, and in that case the 14-day rule does not apply. We're still talking here about returning goods without giving a reason, it's different when you notice a technical or legal defect that prevents you from using the vehicle safely. What then?
A hidden car defect and the implied warranty. How much time do you have to return a car you've bought?
In the event of non-conformity with the contract, i.e. when a fault is discovered, the law is on your side. If the car has a defect the seller didn't tell you about, you have every right to return the car under the implied warranty (rękojmia). What's more, you can also demand a reduction in the car's price, a replacement or the removal of defects you weren't aware of at the time of the transaction.
What about deadlines? The regulations state clearly how much time you have to return a used car under the implied warranty. The seller is liable for physical and legal defects for 2 years from the date the contract is signed.You, in turn, are obliged to report the defect as soon as possible after discovering it, ideally within a month. But don't worry. The law also provides for situations in which the seller deliberately misleads you, e.g. by winding back the odometer. We then speak of a maliciously concealed defect, and here the implied warranty applies without any time limit.Tip: don't try to repair the car yourself. Making any changes will make it harder for you to return it, who's going to believe that the fault was there before and didn't come from your tinkering?
Returning a car to a private seller or a dealer
Bought a car and want to return it? The rules are similar regardless of whether it's a vehicle from an authorised dealer or a private person. The basis here is a complaint submitted in writing, ideally sent by registered letter. In it, state when you noticed the defects and describe them precisely. Also set out your demands, e.g. a refund of the full purchase amount. The seller has 14 days to respond, and may offer you a free repair of the faults instead of a refund. It's worth remembering that this regulation also applies to buying a new car from a showroom. A return under the implied warranty isn't always so simple. When can't you return a faulty car?
When the seller informed you of all the defects and you were fully aware of the car's technical condition, unless you discover a fault the seller concealed.
When the defect results from wear and tear of the vehicle.
What does this mean for you? Before you sign the contract, inspect the car thoroughly, both outside and inside. And if you're not entirely sure what to look out for, go for a technical inspection. That way you'll know what you're buying.
What do they check during an inspection and how much does it cost in 2023? 🡰 read on!
Where to buy a used car so you won't regret it?
Don't wear yourself out returning a used car, buy only from trusted sources. AtCar&More we carefully select cars before we add them to our offer. That's why we work only with trusted used-car dealers. What matters to us includes:
minimal mileage,
a full service and warranty history,
flawless technical and visual condition.
No more worrying about car defects. On the product card we provide detailed information about the car's technical condition. We also attach a set of photos that show you the car in detail. Don't like formalities? Perfect. With Car&More you sort everything out online, without leaving home. You'll choose your dream car, and we'll deliver it straight to your door! Literally! On top of that, we offer you the option of returning a car bought at Car&More once the leasing agreement ends. You can swap it for another model from our offer or simply give it up.