If your vehicle keeps going back to the dealership for the same problem, you may be wondering:
“Do I have to go through BBB AUTO LINE before I can file a Lemon Law lawsuit?”
The answer depends on your state — and your manufacturer’s warranty.
What Is BBB AUTO LINE?
BBB AUTO LINE is an arbitration program used by many vehicle manufacturers to resolve warranty and Lemon Law disputes without going to court.
It is:
- Free for consumers
- Informal
- Usually faster than litigation
Manufacturers often state in their warranty booklet that consumers must use BBB AUTO LINE before filing suit.
But whether that requirement is legally enforceable depends on state law.
When Is BBB AUTO LINE Required?
In some states, consumers must participate in a certified informal dispute resolution program before filing a Lemon Law lawsuit.
States that typically require arbitration include:
- Florida
- New Jersey
- Maryland
- Texas (through a state administrative process)
In other states, like California, arbitration is optional.
In states such as Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Arizona, and Wyoming, it depends on whether the manufacturer’s program is properly certified under state law.
What Happens During BBB AUTO LINE?
The arbitrator will review:
- Repair history
- Warranty coverage
- Number of repair attempts
- Days out of service
- Whether the defect substantially impairs the vehicle
The arbitrator may order:
- A buyback
- A replacement vehicle
- Additional repairs
- Or deny the claim
Do I Have to Accept the Arbitration Decision?
Usually:
- If you win and accept the decision, the manufacturer must comply.
- If you lose, you typically still have the right to file a lawsuit.
However, arbitration strategy can impact your case — so it’s important to evaluate your options before proceeding.
Should I Use BBB AUTO LINE?
It depends on:
- Your state’s legal requirements
- The strength of your documentation
- The complexity of your defects
- Whether you may recover more through litigation
In some straightforward cases, arbitration may resolve the issue quickly.
In more complex cases, filing suit may provide greater leverage — especially under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which allows recovery of attorney’s fees.
The Bottom Line
You may or may not be required to use BBB AUTO LINE before filing a Lemon Law lawsuit.
The answer depends on:
- Your state
- Whether the manufacturer’s program is certified
- The language in your warranty
Before filing — or before participating in arbitration — it is critical to evaluate your legal options.
You may have more leverage than you think.
