By: Stephen Kreutzer
Lemon laws were designed to protect the consumer. Buying a vehicle is one of the major purchases a person can make and having protection against a bad deal is important. Lemon laws differ from state to state, but the basics of the law are standard throughout the United States.
The lemon law gives consumers a basic definition of what considers a vehicle to be a lemon. It also states the manufacturer is responsible for problems and goes on to define how matters should be handled when a lemon is in question. The lemon laws sets up a warranty period that is usually between 12 and 24 months. It also specifies how many attempts must be made to correct the defect before a refund or replacement is ordered. Most often serious defects that would affect the safety and security of passengers is allowed one attempt to correct. Other lesser concerns usually are allowed three attempts. When the refund is given there are dedications for use of the vehicle. This usually correlates with the number of miles on the vehicle. Not every situation qualifies under the lemon law, so checking state regulations is important before attempting to use the law.
Once you know your situation qualifies under the lemon law there are some steps to take. Repairs are an important part of the lemon law, as stated above, there are a certain number of attempts allowed to try to repair the defect. It is important that you keep good repair records to prove the attempts have been made. After repairs have been attempted you have to notify the manufacturer about what is happening. You should then be set up to get the refund or replacement. Sometimes the manufacturer will disagree and you may have to go to court to resolve the matter.
Lemon laws are a way to make manufacturers responsible for the vehicles they make. When a person buys a vehicle they expect to be able to drive it and use it, not be stuck with major problems. Fortunately more often than not major defects are caught as soon a the vehicle is on the market and the manufacturer steps up to replace them. However, if this doesn’t happen then your state’s lemon laws are there to look out for your rights.
