Can You Return a Car After Buying It?

Can I return a car I just bought?

If a dealership offers a cooling-off period after a sale, it can last any length of time that the dealership chooses. Note that car dealerships are under no legal obligation to offer a cooling-off period, so it may be a good idea to ask your salesperson about it. You may be able to negotiate a cooling-off period into your contract to close a deal when buying a car. The possibility of being able to return the car may also depend on the situation you’re in.

You don’t think you got a fair deal. If this is the case, try contacting the car dealership manager and calmly explain your situation. While they aren’t legally obligated to do anything once you’ve signed the contract, the two of you may be able to reach an agreement.

Something’s wrong with the car. Can you return a vehicle to the dealer within 30 days if it has a mechanical issue? Chances are you can, and you probably won’t be limited to just 30 days. Each state has its own version of a “lemon law” that essentially says you can return a car to the dealership if it develops a serious problem that makes it unsafe to drive. Check with your state to see what they define as a lemon. Once a car is declared a lemon, the dealership a reasonable opportunity to repair the problem – the specific number of days will vary by state. Learn more about what happens if you buy a lemon car.

If they can’t fix the problem in a way that makes it safe for you and your passengers, they owe you a refund or a replacement.

You don’t like the car. Car dealerships generally won’t see this as a good enough reason to take back the vehicle unless they previously agreed to a cooling-off period. To avoid getting into this situation, take your time deciding and take the car on multiple test drives before signing a contract.

The likelihood of being able to return a car also depends on whether it’s a new or used vehicle. Car dealerships are much more likely to take back a used vehicle. This is because a new car is no longer “new” as soon as you drive it off the lot. If the dealership takes back the car, they’ll then need to sell it as a used vehicle, and they’ll likely lose money on the transaction.