If you bought a new car that keeps breaking down despite multiple repair attempts, you may have a "lemon" — and the law may entitle you to a replacement vehicle or a full refund. Every state has some form of lemon law, though the specifics vary widely. Here's what you need to know.
Most state lemon laws apply to new cars (and sometimes leased vehicles) that have a substantial defect covered by the manufacturer's warranty. Some states also have protections for used cars, though these are generally weaker.
A minor cosmetic issue probably doesn't qualify. The defect must substantially impair the vehicle's use, value, or safety. It must also persist after a reasonable number of repair attempts — typically 3–4 for the same problem or 30+ days total in the shop.
If your car qualifies as a lemon, the manufacturer must typically offer you a choice: a comparable replacement vehicle or a full refund of the purchase price (minus a reasonable allowance for the miles you've driven).
Keep every repair order, receipt, and communication with the dealer. Note the dates, what was repaired, how long the car was in the shop, and whether the problem recurred. This documentation is the backbone of a lemon law claim.
Some states require you to go through the manufacturer's arbitration program first. Others let you go straight to court. Lemon law lawyers typically work on contingency, and many states require the manufacturer to pay your lawyer fees if you win.
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