Returns & Refunds

Your satisfaction is our priority. We make returns simple and hassle-free.

Our Return Policy

In accordance with the South African Consumer Protection Act (CPA), you have the right to return items purchased from Automotive Spares within 7 days of receipt, provided they meet our return conditions.

✓ 7-day return period from date of delivery
✓ Items must be unused and in original packaging
✓ Full refund or exchange available
✓ Defective items accepted at any time

What Can Be Returned?

✓ Eligible for Return

  • Unused automotive parts in original, unopened packaging
  • Items with all original labels, seals, and documentation intact
  • Parts ordered in error (wrong specification or compatibility)
  • Defective or damaged items (no time limit)

✗ Not Eligible for Return

  • Installed or fitted parts - Once installed on a vehicle, parts cannot be returned for safety and liability reasons
  • Parts with broken seals or opened packaging
  • Items damaged due to incorrect installation or misuse
  • Custom-ordered or special-order parts
  • Items without original packaging, labels, or proof of purchase

How to Return an Item

1

Contact Us Within 7 Days

Email us at info@automotivespares.co.za or use our contact form to initiate a return. Include your order number and reason for return.

2

Receive Return Authorization

We'll review your request and provide a Return Authorization (RA) number within 1 business day. This number must be included with your return.

3

Package Your Return

Securely package the item in its original packaging with all accessories, labels, and documentation. Write the RA number clearly on the outside of the package.

4

Ship or Drop Off

You can either:

  • Ship the item back via courier (you'll receive return shipping instructions)
  • Drop off at our store location during business hours (FREE)
5

Receive Your Refund

Once we receive and inspect your return, we'll process your refund within 7-14 business days to your original payment method.

Refund Process

Refund Method

All refunds are processed to the original payment method used for the purchase. We cannot issue refunds to a different payment method or account.

Refund Timeline

  • 1-2 business days: Inspection upon receipt
  • 3-5 business days: Refund processing
  • 5-10 business days: Bank/payment provider processing time

Total refund time: 7-14 business days from when we receive your return.

Refund Amount

You will receive a full refund for the product cost. Original shipping charges are non-refundable unless the return is due to our error or a defective product.

Return Shipping Costs

We Pay Return Shipping When:

  • • We sent you the wrong item
  • • The item arrived damaged or defective
  • • There was an error in our product description

You Pay Return Shipping When:

  • • You ordered the wrong part (change of mind)
  • • You ordered an incompatible part for your vehicle
  • • You no longer need the item

💡 Tip: Dropping off returns at our store is always FREE and faster!

Defective or Damaged Items

If you receive a defective or damaged item, we'll make it right immediately:

  • No time limit - Defective items can be returned at any time
  • We pay all shipping - Free return shipping and replacement shipping
  • Your choice: Full refund or free replacement
  • Priority processing - Expedited handling for defective items

Please take photos of any damage and include them when contacting us. This helps us process your claim faster and improve our quality control.

Exchanges

We're happy to exchange items for a different part if:

  • The item meets all return eligibility requirements
  • The replacement item is in stock
  • You cover any price difference (or receive a refund if replacement is cheaper)

To request an exchange, follow the same return process and indicate in your message that you'd like to exchange for a different part.

Your Consumer Rights

This return policy complies with the South African Consumer Protection Act, 2008 (Act 68 of 2008). Under the CPA, you have the right to:

  • Return items within 7 days of receipt without reason (cooling-off period)
  • Receive goods that are of good quality, in good working order, and free from defects
  • Fair, honest, and transparent dealings
  • A refund, replacement, or repair if goods are defective

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a part after I've test-fitted it?

Test-fitting is generally acceptable as long as the part remains unused and in its original condition. However, once a part is installed or shows signs of use, it cannot be returned.

What if I ordered the wrong part for my vehicle?

You can return it within 7 days as long as it's unused and in original packaging. However, you'll be responsible for return shipping costs. We recommend double-checking part compatibility before ordering.

How do I know if my part is defective?

A defective part typically shows manufacturing faults, doesn't fit as specified, or fails to function as advertised. If you suspect a part is defective, contact us immediately with photos and a description. We'll help determine if it's defective.

Can I return a part if it doesn't fit my vehicle?

Yes, as long as it's within 7 days and the part is unused. However, if the part is correct according to your order but incompatible with your vehicle due to ordering error, you'll cover return shipping.

Do you offer store credit instead of refunds?

We can offer store credit if you prefer, which can be used for any future purchases. Just let us know when initiating your return. Store credit never expires.

What happens if I refuse delivery?

If you refuse delivery, the item will be returned to us. You'll receive a refund for the product cost minus all shipping charges (both ways), unless the refusal was due to our error.

Still have questions?

We're here to help! Contact us at info@automotivespares.co.za or use our contact form.