If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, one of the first questions you probably have is:
“How long will this take?”
It’s a fair question. When you’re stuck with a defective vehicle — especially one that’s been in and out of the repair shop — you don’t want the process to drag on for months or years.
The honest answer is: it depends. But understanding the timeline can help you know what to expect.
What Is a Lemon Law Buyback?
A Lemon Law buyback typically means the manufacturer must:
- Repurchase your vehicle, or
- Replace it with a comparable new vehicle
In a buyback situation, the manufacturer refunds:
- Your down payment
- Monthly payments made
- Registration and certain fees
- In some cases, other related costs
There is usually a deduction for mileage driven before the first repair attempt for the defect.
Typical Timeline: 2 to 6 Months (In Many Cases)
While every case is different, many Lemon Law buyback cases resolve within 2 to 6 months after a formal claim is initiated.
However, several factors can speed things up — or slow them down.
What Affects How Long It Takes?
1. How Cooperative the Manufacturer Is
Some manufacturers move quickly once presented with a strong claim. Others delay, request additional documentation, or push back before agreeing to a buyback.
Manufacturers are businesses — and buybacks cost them money.
2. Whether the Case Settles or Goes to Litigation
Many Lemon Law cases settle without a trial.
If the manufacturer agrees to repurchase the vehicle after negotiations, the process is usually much faster.
If litigation becomes necessary, the timeline can extend significantly — sometimes 8 to 12 months or longer depending on court scheduling.
3. Documentation and Repair History
Having:
- Clear repair orders
- Multiple documented repair attempts
- Proof the defect substantially impairs use, value, or safety
…can strengthen your case and speed up negotiations.
Incomplete paperwork can cause delays.
4. State-Specific Requirements
Lemon Laws vary by state.
Some states require:
- A final repair attempt notice
- Participation in manufacturer arbitration
- Specific timelines before filing suit
Failing to follow required procedures can delay the process.
What Happens During the Buyback Process?
Here’s a general overview:
Step 1: Case Review
An attorney reviews your repair history and purchase documents to determine eligibility.
Step 2: Demand to Manufacturer
A formal claim is submitted requesting repurchase or replacement.
Step 3: Negotiation
The manufacturer evaluates the claim and may negotiate terms.
Step 4: Settlement or Litigation
If the manufacturer agrees, paperwork is processed and the vehicle is returned in exchange for payment.
If not, a lawsuit may be filed.
Step 5: Vehicle Turn-In and Payment
Once finalized, you return the vehicle and receive the agreed-upon compensation.
Why Some Cases Move Faster Than Others
Strong cases with clear safety issues and repeated failed repairs often move more quickly because the risk to the manufacturer is higher.
Cases involving intermittent issues, fewer repair attempts, or borderline eligibility may take longer to resolve.
Do I Have to Keep Making Payments During the Process?
Yes — in most situations, you must continue making loan or lease payments while the claim is pending.
Stopping payments can negatively affect your credit and complicate the buyback process.
If the vehicle is ultimately repurchased, qualifying payments are typically included in the refund calculation.
What If My Vehicle Is Unsafe?
If your vehicle has a serious safety defect (brake failure, engine stalling, electrical issues, etc.), make sure every issue is documented with the dealership immediately.
In some cases, safety-related defects can increase pressure on the manufacturer to resolve the matter faster.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
Most Lemon Law cases resolve before trial.
However, filing a lawsuit is sometimes necessary to move the process forward. Even then, many cases settle before reaching a courtroom.
Final Thoughts: Patience Matters — But So Does Acting Quickly
While a Lemon Law buyback is not instant, it is often far faster than continuing to deal with a defective vehicle for years.
The sooner you act, the sooner the process can begin.
If your car has been repeatedly repaired for the same issue and the problem still isn’t fixed, you may have rights under your state’s Lemon Law.
Don’t Stay Stuck With a Defective Vehicle
If you believe your vehicle may qualify for a Lemon Law claim, it’s important to understand your timeline, your documentation requirements, and your options.
An experienced Lemon Law attorney can evaluate your situation and help move the process forward as efficiently as possible.
