There is no buyer’s remorse, cooling-off, or right-to-rescind law that requires the seller of a used car to cancel the sale or accept the return of the car. When you sign the contract for the purchase of the car, you are legally obligated to the purchase. Because of the finality of the purchase agreement (or an offer, acceptance, and the exchange of the payment and the car), it is important to have the car inspected by an independent auto service technician, and carefully read and understand the agreement before you sign it or agree to buy the car.
Some state laws require car dealers to offer extra protections for buyers of used cars—such as a contract cancellation option agreement that the buyer may purchase for an additional fee, and that will allow the buyer to return the car and cancel the contract within a short period of time (2 days).
Used cars are generally sold and purchased “as is,” which means with all of the car’s defects and flaws, and with no warranty. In other words, it is generally caveat emptor—meaning “buyer beware!” But there are currently six states that have some kind of a lemon law (warranty) for used cars: Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, and New York.
In Connecticut, there is no statutory right for a buyer to return a used car based on buyer's remorse or a cooling-off period once the contract for purchase is signed. The sale is considered final upon agreement, which underscores the importance of a thorough inspection and understanding of the contract before finalizing the purchase. However, Connecticut is one of the few states that has a used car lemon law, which provides some protection to buyers. This law requires dealers to provide a warranty covering certain defects for a specified period or mileage. If the car fails to meet the standards set by the law during the warranty period, the buyer may be entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund. It is crucial for buyers to be aware that outside of this warranty, used cars are typically sold 'as is,' meaning the buyer assumes the risk for any defects or issues that may arise post-purchase.