Chevrolet will allow returns for any reason

DETROIT — Chevrolet is trying to pull more customers into its dealerships by offering a money-back guarantee on new cars and trucks.

Spokesmen for the General Motors Co. brand said Tuesday buyers can get refunds if they return their 2012 or 2013 vehicles for any reason within 60 days of the date of purchase.

Chris Perry, Chevy marketing chief, said research shows customers like for companies to show confidence in their vehicles. Customers pay a set price equal to the discount GM offers to parts supply companies, including incentives. If they are not satisfied with the vehicle, GM will refund their money.

Returned vehicles may not have been driven more than 4,000 miles and they may not be damaged.

The offer ends on Sept. 4.

During the first half of the year, Chevy sales grew 6.3 percent to almost 962,000 cars and trucks. But the brand is growing at less than half the rate of overall U.S. auto sales. The total U.S. auto market grew almost 15 percent from January through June. Chevy is GM's most important brand by far. It accounts for more than 73 percent of the company's U.S. sales, according to Autodata Corp.

Overall, GM sales grew only 4.3 percent in the United State in the first half, pulled down by sagging figures for Cadillac and Buick.

Globally, Chevy sold a record 4.76 million cars and trucks last year. The brand had its best first quarter ever with 1.18 million sales worldwide. GM is to release first-half global sales figures Aug. 2.

Chevy also is offering no-haggle prices to clear out its 2012 models. Chevy is trying to clear out older versions of its two top-selling products, the Malibu midsize car and the Silverado pickup.

New Malibus hit showrooms this month. New Silverados arrive in the spring.