Having second thoughts after signing on a used car contract? You’re not alone; it happens to plenty of buyers. The good news for Queensland drivers is that the law gives you a cooling-off period of one business day, when buying from a licensed motor dealer. Think of it as a built-in pause button, giving you space to review the fine print and ensure the car feels right.
If you’re buying through Cars24 in Brisbane, you’re got even more customer benefits! Our 7-day return policy means you can live with the car for a whole week before making your final call. That’s more time, more confidence, and less stress, because a car should be the right fit, not a rushed decision.
What is the cooling-off period?
- You have one clear business day (based on the dealer’s trading days) to change your mind.
- The period ends at 5:00 p.m. on the dealer’s next business day, or at closing time if the dealership closes earlier.
- If you drive the car away during this period, you automatically forfeit your right to cancel.
Exceptions: you can still take the car to a mechanic for an independent inspection or for a short test drive without losing your cooling-off rights.
How to use your cooling-off rights?
To invoke the cooling-off period cancellation, you must notify the dealer in writing before the allowed time ends. You can do this by:
- Delivering a written notice in person to the dealership
- Sending an email or fax
- Providing written notice through another confirmed method agreed with the dealer
Always keep proof that the dealer received your cancellation notice.
Deposits and refunds
Dealers can request a small deposit during the cooling-off period. Here’s what you need to know:
- The deposit cannot exceed $100.
- If you cancel, the dealer may keep some or all of that deposit.
- If you proceed with the purchase, the deposit will be applied to the car’s sale price.
- The dealer must clearly explain these terms in writing.
Can you waive your rights?
Effectively, yes, by taking delivery of the car during the cooling-off period. Once you drive away, the contract becomes binding, and your cooling-off rights are lost. That’s why it’s a good idea to leave the car with the dealer for that one extra business day until you’re completely sure about the purcahse.
When cooling-off doesn’t apply
The cooling-off period does not apply if the car is:
- Bought privately, at auction, or on consignment
- Unregistered and unable to be registered (intended for wrecking)
- A caravan
- A commercial vehicle (built for carrying goods or more than nine people, excluding utes under 1 tonne capacity)
- Purchased by another motor dealer (unless for personal use)
Final advice
Queensland’s cooling-off period is a useful safeguard for buyers. It gives you breathing room to double-check the paperwork, talk through your decision, or even get a mechanic’s opinion before you commit. It’s not as accommodating as the cooling-off period as offered in other states like, but it’s there nonetheless.
If you’re buying locally, including through Cars24 Brisbane, remember that this cooling-off period adds an extra layer of security. Combine it with Cars24’s 7-day return policy, and you can shop for your next car with complete confidence.
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