Returns Policy

1. Overview

This Returns Policy applies to all purchases made through the Mila Auto Spares marketplace platform. We understand that automotive parts need to be the right fit, and we aim to make the returns process as straightforward as possible. This policy is compliant with the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (CPA).

2. Your Right to Return (CPA Cooling-Off Period)

In terms of Section 44 of the Consumer Protection Act, if you purchased goods as a result of direct marketing (including online purchases), you have the right to return them within 5 business days of delivery without reason and receive a full refund. The goods must be unused, in their original packaging, and in a resalable condition.

This cooling-off right does not apply to goods that have been installed, used, altered, or damaged after delivery.

3. Defective or Incorrect Parts

Defective goods: In terms of Section 56 of the CPA, if a product is defective, unsafe, or of poor quality, you may return it within 6 months of delivery for your choice of a repair, replacement, or refund. Contact us within 7 days of discovering the defect. We will arrange collection or provide a return shipping label at no cost to you.

Wrong part supplied: If you received the wrong part (different from what was ordered or quoted), notify us within 48 hours of delivery. We will arrange collection and send the correct part or issue a full refund, including original shipping costs. Keep the original packaging until the exchange or refund is complete.

Damaged in transit: If your order arrives damaged, report it within 24 hours of delivery. Take photographs of the packaging and the damaged item and send them to us. We will arrange a replacement or refund. Do not install a part that appears damaged.

4. Fitment Issues

Automotive parts are vehicle-specific. If you ordered a part based on your own research and it does not fit your vehicle, returns are subject to the following conditions:

The part must be unused, uninstalled, and in its original packaging with all labels intact. You must notify us within 7 days of delivery. A restocking fee may apply (see Section 5 below). Return shipping costs are the buyer's responsibility.

If you ordered a part through our VIN search or vehicle search and it was confirmed as compatible but does not fit, the return is treated as an incorrect part (see Section 3 above) and return shipping will be covered with no restocking fee.

5. Handling & Restocking Fees

Returning an order involves real costs — courier logistics, supplier return processing, repackaging, administration, and stock handling. To cover these costs fairly, certain returns attract a handling or restocking fee. The fee is deducted from your refund amount.

The exact restocking fee percentage depends on the product category, packaging condition, and whether the original packaging is intact. The seller will communicate the applicable fee before processing the return. You may choose not to proceed with the return if the fee is unacceptable. Restocking fees never apply to defective products, wrong parts supplied by the seller, or items damaged in transit — these are always returned at no cost to you.

6. Non-Returnable Items

The following items cannot be returned unless defective:

Electrical components that have been installed or connected (ECUs, sensors, ignition coils). Custom-ordered or specially sourced parts ordered at the buyer's specific request. Parts that have been modified, machined, or altered after delivery. Fluids, lubricants, adhesives, and other consumable products that have been opened. Any part where the serial number, barcode, or manufacturer label has been removed or tampered with.

7. How to Initiate a Return

To return a product, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log into your Mila Auto Spares account and go to "My Orders." Find the relevant order and click "Request Return."

Step 2: Select the reason for your return and provide any supporting details or photographs (required for damaged/defective claims).

Step 3: The seller will review your request within 2 business days and either approve, request more information, or provide an alternative resolution.

Step 4: Once approved, you will receive return shipping instructions. For defective or incorrect parts, a prepaid return label or collection will be arranged.

Alternatively, you can contact us directly at info@milaautospares.co.za or call 051 430 0883.

8. Refund Processing

Refunds are processed once the returned item has been received and inspected by the seller. The inspection takes up to 3 business days after the item is received.

Refund method: Refunds are issued to the original payment method. Bank transfers and EFT refunds may take 5–7 business days to reflect. Card refunds may take up to 10 business days depending on your bank.

Partial refunds: If the returned item shows signs of use, missing packaging, or damage not reported at the time of return, a partial refund may be issued after consultation with you.

9. Warranties

Product warranties are provided by the respective seller or manufacturer. Warranty terms, duration, and conditions vary by product and are stated on the product listing page where applicable. Warranty claims should be directed to the seller through the Platform. Mila Auto Spares will assist in facilitating communication but is not the warrantor unless explicitly stated.

In addition to any seller warranty, the implied warranty of quality under Section 56 of the CPA applies to all products for 6 months from delivery.

10. Seller Obligations

Sellers on the Mila Auto Spares platform must honour returns that comply with this policy and the CPA. Sellers must respond to return requests within 2 business days, process approved returns promptly, and issue refunds within 5 business days of receiving and inspecting the returned item. Sellers who consistently fail to honour valid return requests may have their accounts suspended.

11. Disputes

If you are unsatisfied with the outcome of a return request, you may escalate the matter to Mila Auto Spares support at info@milaautospares.co.za. We will review the case and work towards a fair resolution. You also retain your rights under the Consumer Protection Act, including the right to approach the National Consumer Commission or the relevant consumer court.

12. Contact

For return and refund enquiries: