That sweet new-car smell can turn sour fast if your dream ride starts giving you trouble soon after purchase. When that happens, it’s normal to wonder what your rights are and whether there’s any protection for cars that turn out to be “lemons.” While regular service plans and extended car warranties can help you avoid costly repairs, the lemon law is what protects you when a car simply isn’t up to standard. 

 

RELATED: WHAT DOES YOUR EXTENDED CAR WARRANTY ACTUALLY COVER? 

 

Understanding the Lemon Law in South Africa 

South Africa doesn’t technically have a law called the “Lemon Law,” but the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) plays a similar role. Under the CPA, consumers are protected from buying defective or poor quality goods, including cars. They have the right to have it repaired, replaced, or refunded in certain situations. 

 

When Is a Car Officially Considered Defective? 

A vehicle may be seen as defective if it fails to perform as reasonably expected, contains a material flaw, or requires repeated repairs for the same issue within the first 6 months of purchase. The defect must be more than minor wear and tear. It must affect the car’s use, value, or safety substantially. 

 

What To Do If You Bought a Faulty Car  

Step 1: Identify and Document the Issue 

Keep detailed notes and evidence of the problem, including repair invoices, communication with the dealer, and photos or videos. 

Step 2: Notify the Seller or Dealership 

Report the problem in writing as soon as it appears. The dealership must be given the opportunity to fix it before further action is taken. 

Step 3: Request Repair, Replacement, or Refund Under Section 56 

Section 56 of the CPA gives you a six-month implied warranty on all goods (including vehicles). During this period, you can insist on a repair, replacement, or refund if the car is found to be defective. 

Step 4: Escalate If Necessary 

If the dealership fails to resolve the issue, you can escalate it to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA) or lodge a complaint with the National Consumer Commission (NCC) for further investigation. 

 

Returning a Car or Getting a Refund 

When You Can Return a Car Within Six Months: 

You can return a vehicle within six months of purchase if it’s defective, provided it wasn’t damaged by misuse or neglect. 

Conditions and Proof Requirements: 

You’ll need to prove the defect existed at the time of sale and wasn’t caused by normal wear or driver error. 

Why Refunds Are Rare: 

Most dealerships prefer to repair or replace the vehicle before issuing a refund. However, if repeated repairs fail, you can legally request your money back. 

 

Make Lemonade With Warranty Insurance 

Even with the best precautions, some cars can still turn out to be lemons. That’s where dotsure.co.za steps in. Our extended car warranty helps cover the cost of unexpected repairs caused by mechanical breakdowns or electrical failures, keeping your budget safe and your car running smoothly. 

If your ride’s been giving you grief, contact us to learn how we can help you make lemonade of your lemon. 

 

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