If your vehicle keeps going back to the dealership for repairs, you may be wondering:
“How long do I have to file a Texas Lemon Law claim?”
Texas Lemon Law has strict timing requirements. Missing a deadline can mean losing your rights — even if your vehicle clearly qualifies.
Here’s what you need to know.
The Basic Rule: 24 Months / 24,000 Miles
In Texas, most Lemon Law claims require that:
- The defect occurs within the first 24 months after delivery
OR - Within the first 24,000 miles,
Whichever comes first.
This is the eligibility window for repair attempts.
When Must Repair Attempts Occur?
To qualify, the repair attempts must generally happen within that same 24-month / 24,000-mile window.
For example:
- Vehicle purchased January 2024
- 24 months ends January 2026
- 24,000 miles reached November 2025
The earlier date (November 2025) controls.
How Long Do You Have to File the Complaint?
Even if repair attempts occurred during the eligibility period, you must file your Texas Lemon Law complaint before the warranty expires.
Texas typically requires that you:
File your complaint with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) while the vehicle is still under the manufacturer’s warranty.
This is extremely important.
If the warranty has expired and no complaint was filed, you may lose your Lemon Law claim.
What If the Problem Started Under Warranty But Continued After?
If the defect:
- Began during the warranty period
- Was reported during the warranty period
- Continues afterward
You may still qualify — but timing matters. Filing promptly is critical.
The Statute of Limitations in Texas
Texas Lemon Law claims are administered by the TxDMV, not initially through regular court.
If arbitration or administrative remedies fail, there are additional time limits for court action.
Because timelines can become complex, acting early is safest.
How Long Does the Texas Lemon Law Process Take?
From filing to decision, the process may take:
- Several months
- Sometimes longer if hearings are required
This includes:
- Complaint review
- Manufacturer response
- Mediation attempts
- Administrative hearing
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you miss the filing deadline:
- The Texas Lemon Law claim may be barred
- You may have to rely on other warranty laws
- You may need to explore federal warranty claims instead
Deadlines matter — do not wait.
Bottom Line
In Texas:
- Defects must generally occur within 24 months / 24,000 miles
- Repair attempts must occur during that window
- You must file your complaint before the warranty expires
If your vehicle has repeated defects, it’s important to act sooner rather than later.
