New car or bike with a defect? How to complain in India
Updated 2026-10 · General information, not legal advice.
A repeated defect in a new vehicle is a consumer dispute with both the dealer and the manufacturer. Documenting each visit is what makes the case.
When to use this
- A defect keeps coming back after repairs
- The dealer refuses to honour the warranty
- The vehicle is not as promised
Step by step
- 1
Document every service visit
Keep job cards, invoices, dates, photos and videos of the defect. Ask the service centre to write down the complaint on the job card.
- 2
Write to the dealer and manufacturer
Send a written complaint to the dealer principal and to the manufacturer's customer care or grievance officer, asking for repair, replacement or refund.
- 3
Get an expert report if needed
An independent inspection report can show the defect. Check what your warranty allows.
- 4
Send a legal notice
A notice to both the dealer and the manufacturer gives a final deadline, usually 15 days.
- 5
File at the Consumer Commission
File online at e-Jagriti for repair, replacement, refund and compensation.
Key facts
- Time limit at the Consumer Commission is 2 years
- Include both dealer and manufacturer in the notice
- Keep the invoice, warranty card and job cards
Get your free action plan
Tell us what happened. We show your options, draft the letters and track every deadline.
Common questions
Can I ask for a replacement of a new vehicle?
You can ask for repair, replacement or refund. What you get depends on the defect and the evidence of repeated failure.
Who is responsible, the dealer or the manufacturer?
Both can be named. Complain to both in writing.