The stationary sale of new cars is forbidden to car dealerships, the workshop operation usually runs only with restrictions. What drivers should know.
- It is basically possible to have cars repaired or bought.
- However, special regulations apply.
- Delays can be expected everywhere.
Motor vehicle workshops are generally allowed to continue working, but sales in the car dealerships are prohibited. Depending on the federal state, the regulations may differ in detail. The Central Association of the German Motor Vehicle Trade (ZDK) has published a guide for its members, which also offers customers an overview of the current situation. An overview of the most important points.
Can I have my car repaired?
Important repairs are allowed nationwide . Exactly what is included in this may vary depending on the region. In case of doubt, motorists * should inquire at the workshop, the municipality or the competent authorities of the federal states. However, the following applies everywhere : Services may only be provided if the applicable minimum distance of 1.50 meters is observed. The workshop must regularly clean contact surfaces, the general hygiene rules must be observed. Employees and customers should not be in the same vehicle at the same time.
What about cosmetic repairs or a tire change?
In some federal states, you may only leave your own home for good reason. A tire change is not mandatory according to ADAC and RÜV Rheinland. Cosmetic repairs may also be prohibited in some regions. If in doubt, drivers should ask their workshop which work is currently permitted and possible on site.
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Can I still buy a new car in the dealership?
No. Pure trading companies are closed to the public . For companies with a joint trading and workshop operation at one location, the trading area must be closed to the public. If there is no structural separation, the sales area must be visibly delimited by barriers or signs. On the other hand, customers are still allowed to enter open exhibition areas outside, but sales are also prohibited there. However, interested parties can certainly take a look at the vehicles and then buy them online *.
Are test drives allowed?
According to the ZDK, there are regionally different rules. Interested parties should ask the dealer.
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Is it still possible to take over a bought car?
The handover is generally permitted , but the distance rules also apply here. Most car dealerships should have found a way to hand over keys and papers without direct contact between seller and customer.
Can spare parts be sold?
According to the ZDK, spare parts and wearing parts that are not installed directly by the workshop should continue to be sold as a rule. At least if the sale is not made locally in the part of the business that is closed to the public. This regulation is intended to prevent cars in poor safety from being on the road, for example with cracked wiper blades or defective lights.
Is a pick-up and delivery service from the workshop allowed?
Yes. Out of courtesy, however, customers should make sure to hand over the cleanest possible vehicle.
Do I get a workshop replacement car?
This is also legally possible without further ado.
Do I have to expect delays in the repair?
Most companies are currently working, but under special security measures. And the headcount may also have been reduced in part. Longer waiting times than usual are therefore not unlikely. Anyone who has arranged for a repair before the start of the corona crisis may also have to wait longer for their vehicle. If a binding appointment has been made or the work takes an unusually long time, the workshop can, according to the ZDK, refer to "force majeure" in many cases. If the vehicle was accepted after the outbreak of the crisis and the consequences for the individual company became known, this probably does not apply.
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Holger Holzer / SP-X
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