Lemon laws are designed to protect consumers who purchase new (and sometimes used) vehicles that turn out to be defective. If your car spends more time in the repair shop than on the road, you might have a lemon law claim. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Lemon?
A “lemon” is a vehicle with substantial defects that persist despite reasonable repair attempts under warranty. Lemon laws vary by state, but generally cover new vehicles and, in some cases, certified pre-owned or used cars under warranty.
Signs You Might Have a Lemon
- Same problem persists after multiple repair attempts
- Vehicle is out of service for extended periods
- Safety issues remain unresolved
- Manufacturer or dealer refuses to fix the problem
What To Document
- Repair orders and invoices for each visit
- Dates and mileage at each service appointment
- Written communication with the dealer/manufacturer
- Warranty documents
- Notes on how the defect affects your use of the car
Practical Checklist
- Keep a log of all repairs and communications
- Request copies of all service records
- Take photos/videos of the defect
- Track time and mileage lost due to repairs
- Review your warranty coverage
Next Steps
If you think your car is a lemon:
- Gather all documentation and repair records
- Notify the manufacturer/dealer in writing
- Check your state’s lemon law requirements
- Consider consulting a consumer law attorney to review your case
Don’t let a defective vehicle disrupt your life. Ginsburg Law Group can help you understand your rights and options under lemon laws.
