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 30-day return guarantee 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 30-day return guarantee policy, and you can shop for your next car with complete confidence.
Comments
New Comment