New Protections for Used Car Buyers

California car buyers now have more rights when it comes to buying a used car. The new law gives you a two-day return option on used vehicles costing $40,000 or less. Rosemary Shahan, President of Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety (CARS), is quick to point out that the new law does not cover used cars purchased from a private party, leased cars, out of state purchases, RVs, motorcycles or commercial vehicles.

With the return option, dealers can charge a fee based on the sale price of the car, along with a restocking fee. The dealer cannot sell your trade-in during the trial period. All terms and fees are negotiable, so why not ask for a 4-5 day trial instead of just two? Be aware that some dealers are asking customers to sign a form saying they will buy another car if they rescind the first sales contract. This is not part of the new law.