So, You Bought a Lemon (Or Maybe Just a Used Car)
You've done it. You've taken the plunge. You've traded in your freedom for monthly payments and car washes. Congratulations, you're now a proud owner of a used car! But what if it turns out to be a lemon? Or maybe you just had a change of heart. Can you return it? And if so, how long do you have? Let's dive into the wonderful world of California car return laws.
The Two-Day Wonder
Believe it or not, California is actually pretty car-buyer friendly in this regard. If you've purchased a used car for under $40,000, the dealership has to offer you something magical called a Two-Day Contract Cancellation Option Agreement. It's basically a safety net in case the car turns out to be a monster from the black lagoon or you simply realize you'd rather spend your money on avocado toast.
If you're smart (and lucky), you'll purchase this little gem. It costs a bit extra, but it’s like insurance for your sanity. With this agreement in your pocket, you have two whole business days to decide if you want to keep the car or send it back to the dealership. It's like trying on a pair of shoes, but with way more paperwork.
The Fine Print
Now, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the two-day clock starts ticking as soon as you sign the contract. So, don't get too carried away with your test drive. Second, you can't just drive the car into the ground and then expect a full refund. It needs to be returned in pretty much the same condition as when you got it. And finally, the dealership doesn't have to offer you this magical agreement if the car costs more than $40,000. So, if you're dropping big bucks on a used car, buyer beware!
Buyer's Remorse: Not a Thing in California
Unfortunately, California doesn't have a general "cooling-off" period for car purchases. So, if you change your mind after two days (or if you didn't buy the cancellation option), tough luck. You're stuck with the car. Unless, of course, it's a lemon. But that's a whole different story for another day.
How to... Your Car Questions Answered
How to know if I qualify for the two-day cancellation option?
- If the car you bought costs less than $40,000, the dealership has to offer you the option.
How to purchase the two-day cancellation option?
- It's usually offered as an add-on when you're signing the purchase contract.
How to return the car if I have the cancellation option?
- Return the car to the dealership within two business days with all original paperwork and in the same condition as when you got it.
How to calculate the two-day return period?
- The two-day period starts from the moment you sign the purchase contract. Weekends and holidays count.
How to deal with buyer's remorse if I didn't buy the cancellation option?
- Unfortunately, there's no legal way to force a dealership to take back a car just because you changed your mind.