California used car bought before October 1, 2026 — was the rule different?

Yes. Before October 1, 2026, California generally required dealers to offer a purchasable two-day contract cancellation option on certain qualifying used-car sales under the older Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights framework. The California CARS Act changed the system from October 1, 2026, creating a three-day cancellation right for qualifying used vehicles valued at $50,000 or less. Official sources: California DMV Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights and CARS Act guidance. Guide: https://getinstantlaw.com/us/california/used-car-problems/cancellation-option