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Auto Salon SchwarzwaldHändler für exklusive Automobile

Statutory warranty

Clear rules. Fair solutions.

When you buy a vehicle from us as a consumer, you are protected by the statutory liability for defects. Here we explain transparently what it covers, how long it applies and how we handle a claim.

At a glance

12months

Limitation period

For used vehicles from handover, provided this is expressly and separately agreed in the purchase contract – otherwise the statutory period of two years applies.

12months

Burden of proof

If a defect appears within the first year after handover, it is presumed to have existed at handover (Section 477 BGB).

§ 437BGB

Your rights

Subsequent performance, withdrawal, price reduction and damages – in the order set out by law.

B2Bbusiness

Business buyers

For businesses and legal entities under public law, vehicles are sold without liability for defects.

Statutory vs. Premium warranty

Two terms that are often confused – and that complement each other perfectly.

By law

Statutory warranty

The seller's liability for defects that already existed when the vehicle was handed over. It arises automatically with the purchase contract.

  • Governed by law (Sections 434 ff. BGB)
  • Applies to consumers automatically
  • Covers defects present at handover
  • Your contact: us as the seller
Optional

Premium warranty

Additional contractual cover – including faults that only occur after handover. We are happy to explain cover and conditions in person.

  • Agreed by contract
  • Term of 12 or 24 months
  • Also covers later faults
  • Complements the statutory warranty
Premium warranty

§ 437 BGB

Your rights in the event of a defect

The law sets out a step-by-step approach. Our goal is always a fast, uncomplicated solution.

01

Subsequent performance

First we remedy the defect – usually through repair at a specialist workshop. Please give us a reasonable opportunity to do so.

02

Withdrawal or reduction

If the remedy fails, you may withdraw from the contract or reduce the purchase price appropriately. Withdrawal is excluded for minor defects.

03

Damages

Damages may also be claimed – in accordance with the statutory provisions and the liability rules in our terms and conditions.

What the statutory warranty does not cover

A statutory warranty does not mean a used vehicle is as good as new. Age and mileage are always taken into account.

Normal wear and tear

Parts such as brakes, tyres, clutch, battery or wiper blades whose wear corresponds to the vehicle's age and mileage.

Known defects

Defects and previous damage we pointed out before the purchase and that are documented in the purchase contract.

Damage after handover

Accidents, improper use, lack of maintenance or external influences after the vehicle was handed over.

Later modifications

Conversions, tuning or repairs by third parties without our prior consent.

How to proceed

If you notice a defect, please contact us right away – the sooner, the easier the solution.

01

Report the defect

Contact us by phone, email or in person. We confirm verbal reports to you in text form.

02

Review & appointment

We look into the matter and arrange a prompt appointment with you for an inspection.

03

Repair

We organise the repair for you. If the vehicle cannot be driven, a certified workshop near you is possible after consultation.

04

Back on the road

Parts fitted during the repair remain covered until the original period ends. Replaced parts become our property.

Legal notice

This overview is for your information and summarises the main principles of the statutory liability for defects. The purchase contract and our terms and conditions are authoritative, in particular section VI “Liability for material defects and defects of title”. Liability for intent, gross negligence, injury to life, body or health, fraudulent concealment of a defect and under the Product Liability Act remains unaffected. The German version is legally binding.

Read terms

Questions about the statutory warranty?

We are happy to explain in person what the purchase contract covers – before and after you buy.