chinautoworks.co.za | Operated by China Auto Works (Pty) Ltd

At China Auto Works, we’re committed to delivering the right part, first time. While we pride ourselves on accuracy and quality, we understand that returns may occasionally be necessary. The following policy outlines how returns, exchanges, and refunds are handled.

1. General Return Conditions

1.1 You must notify us of any return within 7 calendar days from the date of delivery, as confirmed by our courier tracking system.

1.2 All returned goods must:

1.2.1 Be in their original packaging

1.2.2 Be unused, uninstalled, and unmodified

1.2.3 Be in a condition suitable for resale, free of oil stains, grease, damage, or physical alteration

1.3 All returns must be accompanied by a valid proof of purchase (your order confirmation or invoice number).

1.4 A Returns Reference Number (RRN) must be obtained from us before sending back any goods. Unauthorised returns will not be accepted or processed.

2. Return Scenarios and How They Are Handled

2.1 If we have supplied an incorrect item, we will arrange to collect the incorrect part at our cost, provided the item is unused, sealed, and in its original condition. Notification must be received within 24 hours of delivery.

2.2 If goods arrive damaged, you must report the issue within 24 hours, providing clear photographs showing the packaging and product condition. We will assess and determine whether a replacement or refund is appropriate.

2.3 If you ordered the incorrect part, you may return it at your own courier cost. The item must not have been fitted or altered. A handling fee of 15% will apply depending on the condition of the packaging and our ability to resell the product.

2.4 Goods must be returned in their original packaging and securely packaged. If returned goods arrive damaged due to poor packaging, we may reject the return and no refund will be issued.

2.5 Special-order items, discontinued stock, or goods not typically held in inventory are non-returnable.

3. Non-Returnable Items

3.1 The following items are not eligible for return unless proven defective under warranty:

3.1.1 Electrical or electronic parts, including sensors, control modules, and switches

3.1.2 Lubricants, oils, and chemicals where seals have been broken

3.1.3 Parts that have been fitted, painted, greased, modified, or altered in any way

3.1.4 Special-order parts or goods sourced specifically upon request

3.1.5 Items returned without original packaging or with damaged internal or outer packaging

4. Warranty Claims

4.1 Our products carry a 12-month manufacturer warranty.

4.2 To submit a warranty claim, you must provide:

4.2.1 A valid invoice or proof of purchase

4.2.2 Proof of fitment by an RMI-accredited workshop

4.2.3 A full diagnostic report (especially for electrical/mechanical components)

4.2.4 Odometer reading and full vehicle details (including VIN or chassis number)

4.3 Warranty claims are not accepted for:

4.3.1 Incorrect fitment by an unaccredited individual

4.3.2 Vehicle-related electrical faults

4.3.3 Misuse, tampering, or physical damage

4.3.4 Wear and tear or fluid contamination

4.4 Items under warranty will be submitted for inspection or testing. No replacement or credit will be issued until we receive a decision from the supplier or manufacturer.

4.5 If the item is electrical, a comprehensive diagnostic test report must be supplied. Generic OBD fault codes or palm scanner outputs will not be accepted. Deep system diagnostics are required for validation.

5. Refunds

5.1 Refunds will only be processed after the item is received, inspected, and approved.

5.2 The inspection and approval process may take up to 7 business days from receipt.

5.3 Refunds will be issued via:

5.3.1 EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer)

5.3.2 The original payment method (e.g. PayFast or PayJustNow), depending on how you paid

5.4 Where the return is not due to our error:

5.4.1 The courier fee will be deducted

5.4.2 A handling fee of 15% may be deducted, depending on the case

6. Packaging Guidelines for Returns

6.1 You must return goods using a strong outer box or padded package.

6.2 Do not place courier labels or stickers directly on the internal product box.

6.3 Use protective padding (e.g., bubble wrap or foam) to avoid damage in transit.

6.4 Items returned with damaged or missing packaging may be rejected or incur a repackaging fee.

7. Workshop & Trade Client Returns

7.1 For workshops, trade customers, and bulk buyers:

7.1.1 A separate Trade Returns Agreement may apply

7.1.2 All trade returns must include a job card or work order

7.1.3 Fitment must be proven to have occurred at an RMI-accredited facility

7.1.4 Vehicle details (make, model, VIN) must accompany the return

8. Legal Compliance

8.1 This policy is designed to align with:

8.1.1 The Consumer Protection Act (CPA)

8.1.2 The Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECTA)

8.1.3 Applicable South African consumer legislation and supplier agreements

8.2 This policy does not override your statutory rights.