How Long Can a Dealership Keep Your Car for Repairs? An In-Depth Guide

How Long Can a Dealership Keep Your Car for Repairs? An In-Depth Guide

  • 19 Oct 2025

It might take a long time than expected to leave your car at a dealership to get some repairs. There are a lot of car owners which are confused on how much time it takes before they follow up. Knowing the time of repairs will make life easier, and you will be aware of your rights.

This guide will tell you how much time a dealership legally and reasonably keeps your car, why there are delays, and what to do in case repairs become excessively long.

Typical Timeframe for Dealership Repairs

The time of repair is normally determined by the nature of the problem, spare parts and service load. The goal of most dealerships is to return a car within a short time, whereas some jobs require time.

Repair Type

Average Duration

Includes

Minor Repairs

1–2 days

Oil changes, brake checks, small part replacements

Moderate Repairs

3–7 days

Suspension work, sensor replacements, or electrical issues

Major Repairs

1–3 weeks

Engine, transmission, or major bodywork

Warranty Repairs

3–10 days

Depends on part shipping and approval time

Recall Repairs

1–7 days

Manufacturer-covered service and testing

In case a repair is taking more time than ensure about an estimated date of completion and a written update.

Factors That Affect Repair Duration

There are a number of factors that determine the time that a dealership holds your car. Being aware of these will assist you in planning and being abreast.

Type of Repair Needed

The mechanical or electronic repairs can be time-consuming as compared to the normal maintenance services.

Availability of Spare Parts

When the part is to be ordered overseas, it may take a long time to repair.

Technician Workload

The busy dealerships that have cars in queue might be longer, particularly during peak seasons.

Warranty or Insurance Approvals

Repairs involving warranty and claims require approvals before work starts, which increases the number of days.

Diagnostic Complexity

Some problems require detailed testing or software updates that extend the timeline.

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Your Rights When Dealerships Delay Repairs

Car owners are allowed to have effective communication, reasonable schedules, and information concerning their cars. Here’s what you can expect:

Written Estimate: The dealership will have to write an approximate time of completion.

Frequent Updates: If you want to be updated on the progress, you can do this regularly.

Loaner Vehicle: In long-term repairs, a lot of dealerships provide temporary replacement vehicles.

Warranty Protection: Warranty repair should not involve any additional costs in case of delay due to parts or approval.

Right to Retrieve: You have the right to demand your car back when there is no work commenced within a reasonable period of time.

It is always good to make a record of communication with the service department.

Common Reasons for Extended Delays

Some delays are normal, but some causes are common than others.

Reason for Delay

Explanation

Possible Solution

Parts on Backorder

Manufacturer or supplier delay in part shipment

Ask for the estimated delivery or the alternative brand

Busy Workshop

High number of pending cars

Request priority service or book during off-peak times

Warranty Approval Pending

Waiting for the manufacturer’s green signal

Follow up directly with the warranty provider

Unexpected Damage Found

Additional issues discovered during repair

Ask for written confirmation and a new timeline

Labor Shortage

Fewer technicians available

Request a transfer to another authorized branch

Knowing these causes enables you to be aware of expectations and be patient in the process of repair.

How to Communicate Effectively with the Dealership

When there is good communication you will always know what is happening and misunderstandings are minimized. Useful communication tips:

  • Ask for a written repair order listing all services.

  • Confirm the estimated completion date before leaving your car.

  • Get the service advisor’s direct contact number for quick updates.

  • Ask to update on long-term repairs every 48 hours.

Never leave without confirming what job has been done when collecting your vehicle.

How Dealerships Handle Warranty Repairs

Warranty repairs are also more likely to take longer AS they require approval by the manufacturer before they are started. Dealers must submit reports, get parts approved, and follow inspection procedures. Nevertheless, these repairs are supposed to be done free of charge to you. In case of delay, dealerships would provide courtesy cars or reimbursement of rental, depending on your warranty policy. Always make sure that you read your warranty terms to know what is covered.

Tips to Avoid Long Repair Times in the Future

  • Make appointments rather than walk-ins.

  • Regular maintenance should be done to avoid significant problems.

  • Select dealerships that have good customer service.

  • Enquire about the availability of parts before booking.

Small proactive actions can save you days of unnecessary waiting.

Conclusion

It is always stress-saving and reliable to know the duration that a dealership will have your car during repair. The majority of repairs can be completed in less than a week, but more complicated problems or the lack of parts may prolong the schedule. Always request written estimates, frequent updates, and effective communication. Patience and informed behavior make the repair process smooth and prevent you from frustration.

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