Want to return the car you bought? Read when it's possible and how much time you have

And there it is, a flop. The automotive gem you just bought turned out to be a disappointment. Hidden technical faults, seizure by a bailiff or a missing valid inspection are just some of the flaws you might spot after buying a car. What then? After the letdown comes frustration, and right after it, action. We'll tell you in which situations you can return the car you bought, how much time you have and what's worth knowing before you start seeking a refund.

Can you give the car back after buying it?

It depends on the reason you want to do it. It's certainly not easy to give a car back without a valid reason (because, say, you bought it on impulse or you urgently need the cash), and the guarantee that you can return a car within 7 days is a myth repeated by many people online. Pursuing your claims in such a case won't be possible.

What does the UOKiK (Polish consumer protection authority) say?Under the regulations, you only have the right to withdraw from the contract within 14 days in the case of an online sale or a sale away from business premises. You have a bit more time to return the car, but watch out, a car sale usually takes place on-site, and then the 14-day rule doesn't apply. This still refers to returning goods without giving a reason, it's different when you spot atechnical or legal defect that prevents you from using the vehicle safely. What then?

Bought a car? Check out:What does registering a used car look like? A step-by-step guide

A hidden car defect. How much time do you have to return it?

Buying a car that has a hidden defect is a completely different case. In that situation the law is on your side. If the car has a defect that the seller didn't tell you about, you have every right to return the car under the statutory warranty (rękojmia).What's more, you can also seek a price reduction, a replacement or repair of the faults, that is, the removal of defects you weren't aware of at the time of the transaction.

Tip: don't try to repair the car yourself.Making any changes will make it harder to return it, who's going to believe the fault was already there and didn't arise from your tinkering?

What about deadlines? The regulations state clearly how much time you have to return a used car under the statutory warranty. The seller is liable for physical and legal defects for 2 years from the day 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 foresees situations in which the seller deliberately misleads you, e.g. by winding back the odometer. Then we speak of adeliberately concealed defect. In such a case you can withdraw from the car purchase contract with no time limit under the statutory warranty.

Returning a car after purchase from a private individual or a dealer

Bought a used car and want to return it? The rules are similar regardless of whether it's a vehicle from an authorised dealer or a private individual. The basis here is a written complaint, ideally sent by registered mail. State in it when you noticed the faulty element and describe it precisely. Also set out your demands, e.g. a refund of the full purchase amount.The seller has 14 days to respond though they may offer you a free repair of the faults instead of a refund.

Remember! The statutory warranty won't work in every case

A return under the statutory warranty isn't always so straightforward. It's worth remembering that the law is meant to protect not only the car's buyer but the other party too.

When can't you return the vehicle despite discovering a defect?

• The seller informed you of all the defects and you were fully aware of the car's technical condition, unless you discover a fault that the seller concealed.

• The defect results from wear and tear of the vehicle.

What does that mean for you? Before you sign the contract, inspect the car thoroughly, both outside and inside. Buying a used car should be a fully considered decision. And if you're not entirely sure what to look out for, get a technical inspection. That way you'll know what you're buying.

Read what's checked during an inspection and how much it costs in 2022!

Check the frequently asked questions:

How many days do I have to return a car I bought?If you buy a car online or away from business premises (in the case of a dealer), you can withdraw from the contract within 14 days.

What is the statutory warranty (rękojmia)?The statutory warranty is a type of guarantee given by the seller to the buyer, including by private individuals. It ensures that the item sold is free from defects and has certain features. If the car nonetheless has faults, the buyer has the right to pursue their claims, including, among others, repair, replacement or a refund. In the case of a car, the statutory warranty is granted for a period of 2 years.

Is it possible to return a car within 14 days of purchase without a reason?Contrary to popular belief, there's no way to return a car you bought without giving a reason.

Can you return a purchased vehicle from a private individual or a company?Yes, it's possible to return a car if you invoke your rights under the statutory warranty, i.e. when the car has hidden defects.

Can every defect be treated as hidden?No, a hidden defect is only damage that the seller didn't inform you about when the sales contract was signed. It's worth remembering that irregularities arising from wear and tear of the car aren't a hidden defect either.

What is a hidden defect?A hidden defect is a fault or irregularity in the car that isn't visible during an inspection or test drive but affects quality or safety. You only discover it while using the car, but it was undetectable at the time of purchase.