California's Combating Auto Retail Scams Act becomes operative October 1, 2026. Its chaptered text requires dealers to provide a three-day cancellation right for qualifying retail used-vehicle sales or leases priced at $50,000 or less. This is a state rule for covered transactions, not a nationwide cooling-off period.
The right does not apply if the vehicle has been driven more than 400 miles after the deal. The three-calendar-day period starts the day after execution; if the last day is one the dealership is closed to the public, it extends to the next open day. The cancellation must be exercised within the applicable business-hours deadline.
A dealer cannot charge for the right itself but can charge a permitted restocking fee when it is used. The law defines a fee of 1.5% of the sale price, at least $200 and no more than $600, with an additional mileage component in specified circumstances. A return can therefore cost money even when it is legally allowed.
The buyer must return the vehicle and required items and satisfy the law's condition and delivery requirements. Coverage excludes several vehicle and commercial transaction categories. Ask for the separate cancellation disclosure and keep the contract, mileage and return receipt. Do not rely on a headline suggesting any California car can be brought back for a full, fee-free refund.