Thinking about buying a car online but worried about buyer’s remorse? You’re not alone. That’s where the Carvana 7 day return policy comes in, offering a crucial safety net for your purchase. This policy is a cornerstone of their customer-first approach, designed to give you real peace of mind. Let’s look at exactly how it works, what you need to know, and how to make the most of it.
Buying a car is a huge decision. Even with great photos and a detailed description, you want to be sure it’s the right fit for your life. The seven-day return window gives you time to truly test your new vehicle. You can drive it in your normal routine, check it out in different light, and see how it feels on your regular roads.
Carvana 7 Day Return Policy
This is the official name of their guarantee. It’s not a trial or a test drive—it’s a full return policy. If you decide the car isn’t for you within seven calendar days of delivery or pickup, you can return it. The key is that the return process is designed to be straightforward. There’s no need to worry about complex negotiations or hefty fees just because you changed your mind.
How the 7-Day Return Window Actually Works
The clock starts ticking the moment your car is delivered to your door or you pick it up from a Carvana Vending Machine. It’s seven calendar days, not business days. This includes weekends and holidays.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the timeline:
* Day 1: Your vehicle is delivered/picked up. The return period begins.
* Days 2-6: Drive the car normally. Get a feel for it.
* Day 7: This is your last day to initiate a return. You must start the process before midnight in your local time zone.
It’s crucial to initiate the return on or before the seventh day. Don’t wait until the last hour, as you’ll need to speak with a customer advocate. Planning ahead is always a good idea.
What Are the Rules for Returning Your Car?
To make a return under the Carvana 7 day return policy, there are a few simple conditions you must meet. These are in place to keep the process fair for everyone.
* Mileage Limit: You must not exceed 400 miles on the odometer. This gives you plenty of distance for a proper evaluation without treating the car like a rental for long trips.
* Vehicle Condition: The car must be returned in essentially the same condition it was delivered in. This means no new damage, accidents, or modifications. Normal wear from careful driving is expected.
* All Items Included: You must return all items that came with the car. This includes all keys/fobs, the owner’s manual, any floor mats, and even the license plate frame if one was attached.
* No Title Transfer: The vehicle’s title cannot have been legally transferred into your name yet. During the return window, Carvana typically still holds the title.
If these conditions are met, you can return the car for any reason at all. Maybe the back seat is smaller than you thought, or the engine doesn’t feel as peppy on your hilly commute. The reason doesn’t matter.
The Step-by-Step Return Process
If you’ve decided to return your vehicle, here’s exactly what to do. Following these steps ensures everything goes smoothly.
1. Contact Carvana. Call their customer service team or start the process through your online account. Do this before your 7-day window expires. Explain that you wish to initiate a return.
2. Schedule the Pickup. A Carvana representative will coordinate a time for them to come and collect the vehicle from you. They usually aim to pick it up from the same location it was delivered to.
3. Prepare the Vehicle. Gather all the items that came with the car. Make sure it’s reasonably clean and has no new damage. You don’t need to fill up the gas tank, but it’s a nice gesture.
4. Hand Over the Car. Be present for the pickup. You’ll sign some simple paperwork to confirm the return. The driver will do a quick inspection to verify the mileage and condition.
5. Receive Your Refund. Once the return is finalized, your refund is processed. The method and timing depend on your original payment.
Understanding Your Refund Options
This is a vital part of the policy. What you get back depends on how you paid and what you want to do next.
* Full Refund: If you do not choose to buy another car from Carvana, you are eligible for a full refund of your purchase price. This includes any down payment, taxes, and fees you paid.
* Exchange for Another Vehicle: If you want to swap for a different Carvana car, the entire amount you paid is applied to the new purchase. This is a seamless way to find a better fit.
* Third-Party Financing: If you used an outside loan, the refund is sent directly to your lender. You should contact them to understand how they handle the payoff and any loan application fees.
Refunds to credit cards or bank accounts can take several business days to appear, depending on your financial institution. Carvana doesn’t charge any restocking fees for returns, which is a significant benefit.
What Happens If You Exceed the 400-Mile Limit?
The 400-mile limit is a firm part of the Carvana 7 day return policy. If you go over this mileage, you will no longer be eligible for the no-questions-asked return. The policy becomes void.
It’s your responsibility to monitor your mileage during the seven days. If you know you have a long commute or a planned trip, factor that in. The policy is meant for evaluation, not for extended use. If you exceed the limit by even a small amount, you should be prepared to keep the vehicle.
The Difference Between Return and Warranty
People sometimes confuse the return policy with the warranty. They are two completely separate things.
* 7-Day Return Policy: This is for buyer’s remorse. You simply don’t want the car. It’s a risk-free trial period.
Limited Warranty (100-Day/4,189-Mile): This is a repair coverage that kicks in after you decide to keep the car past the seven days. It covers certain mechanical issues that may arise.
You can use the seven days to help identify any potential problems that might be covered under the warranty. If you find a significant issue, you could choose to return the car instead of filing a warranty claim. It gives you more options.
Tips for Maximizing Your 7-Day Test Period
To make an informed decision, be strategic during your week. Here’s a smart checklist:
* Drive in Various Conditions: Take it on the highway, on city streets, and in your typical parking situations.
* Test All Features: Try every button, switch, and technology feature. Check the infotainment system, climate control, seats, and windows.
* Inspect in Different Light: Look over the car’s exterior and interior in bright sunlight and at night. Sometimes imperfections are easier to see in certain light.
* Carry Your Passengers: Have your family or friends who will regularly ride in the car join you. Get their feedback on comfort and space.
* Check Practicality: Try fitting in your regular cargo, like a stroller, golf clubs, or groceries. Make sure it works for your daily needs.
* Visit a Mechanic: You are allowed to take the car to an independent mechanic for an inspection during the seven days. This is one of the best ways to gain confidence in your purchase.
Common Misconceptions About the Policy
Let’s clear up a few frequent misunderstandings.
* “It’s a lease or subscription.” No, it’s a purchase with a return option. You are buying the car.
* “I can return it multiple times.” You can use the policy, but repeatedly buying and returning cars may be flagged by their system.
* “I get a refund for my shipping fee.” If you paid a delivery fee and return the car for a full refund (not an exchange), that fee is typically refunded as well.
* “The car must be perfect to return it.” You can return it for any reason, even if you just don’t like the color in person.
What About Registration and Plates During the Return Window?
This is an important detail. Because the title transfer isn’t complete during the seven days, you will not receive permanent registration or license plates immediately. Carvana provides a temporary tag that is valid for this period.
If you return the car, the temporary tag goes back with it, and all registration processes are canceled. If you keep the car, Carvana will continue the title and registration work on your behalf. You don’t have to worry about DMV visits in either case, which is a nice convenience.
The Exchange Process: Switching to a Different Car
If you love the Carvana model but not the specific car, the exchange process is fantastic. Here’s how it works:
1. Initiate the return for your current vehicle.
2. Tell your customer advocate you want to exchange.
3. Browse inventory and select a new vehicle.
4. Your funds are transferred directly to the new purchase.
5. Schedule delivery of your new car, often on the same day the old one is picked up.
Any price difference between the cars will be settled. This means you could owe a bit more or get a refund of the difference.
FAQs About the Carvana 7 Day Return Policy
Q: Is the Carvana 7-day return policy really no questions asked?
A: Yes, as long as you meet the conditions (under 400 miles, same condition, all items included), you can return the car for any reason without needing to justify your decision.
Q: What happens if I damage the car during the 7 days?
A: The policy requires the car be returned in the same condition. New damage could make you ineligible for the return or result in charges for repair. It’s covered under their limited warranty, but it’s best to avoid any accidents.
Q: Can I return a car I financed through Carvana?
A: Absolutely. The return process is the same. If you used Carvana’s financing, the refund will go to the lender to pay off the loan. Any down payment or other payments you made would be refunded to you after the loan is settled.
Q: How long does the refund take after a return?
A: Refunds are usually processed within a few business days after the car is picked up. However, it can take 5-10 business days for the funds to show up in your bank account or on your credit card, depending on your institution.
Q: Does the 7-day policy apply to every car Carvana sells?
A: It applies to all cars purchased directly from Carvana. It’s important to note that it does not apply to vehicles purchased through Carvana’s sister company, CarMax, or other retailers.
Q: What if I change my mind after the 7 days are up?
A: After the seven-day window closes, you own the car. Your option then would be to sell it privately or trade it in, just like any other vehicle you own. The return policy no longer applies.
Final Thoughts on Using the Policy Wisely
The Carvana 7 day return policy is a powerful tool for online car buyers. It shifts the risk from you, the customer, back to the retailer. To make the most of it, be proactive during your week. Don’t just let the car sit in the driveway; put it through its paces.
Remember, it’s a safety net, not a planning tool. You should be fairly confident in your choice before completing the purchase. Use the seven days for final confirmation, not for initial indecision. By understanding the rules and following the steps, you can buy your next car with a level of confidence that traditional dealerships rarely offer. It makes the entire experience less stressful and more focused on finding the right vehicle for you.