In Spain, Law 23/2003, on Guarantees in the Sale of Consumer Goods is the norm that details the rights and guarantee of the consumer on any product that he acquires, be it an electrical appliance, an orthopedic article or a car. Manufacturers are obliged to remedy possible damage to their vehicles within two years of purchase and to guarantee replacement parts for the following five years.
As of January 1, 2022, as a result of the entry into force of EU Directive 2019/770, relating to certain aspects of contracts for the supply of digital content and services, the warranty periods have been extended up to three years in case of repairs of factory defects, and up to ten the obligation to have replacement parts. However, dealers usually extend this legal guarantee with the aim of attracting and retaining new customers.
From their registration, manufacturers have the obligation to repair possible manufacturing defects in new cars within the next three years, at no additional cost to the customer and regardless of mileage. This coverage includes all types of mechanical, electrical or electronic breakdowns, an increasingly common occurrence among the current range of cars on the market. Of course, you must comply with the guidelines regarding the ordinary revisions of the vehicle marked by the manufacturer. On the other hand, the guarantee will not cover the repair of parts due to lack of maintenance, such as changing light bulbs or damage to the bodywork and upholstery, which must be assumed by the driver.
The trap lies in the requirements that the client must meet to claim because, if he does not communicate the ruling to the house within six months of leaving the dealership, he will need an expert report proving the existence of that defect. That is why it is crucial to remain alert after the purchase to detect possible problems and claim as soon as possible. In the event of a breakdown, you can choose the workshop in which to fix your car without the need for it to be at home. In addition, the time that the vehicle remains in the workshop will not be deducted from the warranty period.
Dealers and customers usually agree to a commercial guarantee that includes additional rights and benefits to those required by law. The manufacturer’s commitment is acquired through a contract signed with the client, in which the coverage conditions are established. The most common effect is the extension of the warranty for a greater number of years, although limits to repairs can also be established with respect to the number of kilometers of the vehicle.
Another advantage of the commercial guarantee is that it usually includes other non-mandatory services such as roadside assistance or replacement vehicle. The company will reimburse these and other expenses derived from the repairs to the client, provided that the latter complies with the agreed conditions.