Lemon Law Used Cars

2007-04-17 10:41:55

( Legal )



Lemon laws are state laws in the United States of America that allow purchasers of defective cars, whether new or used, to find a solution to their car troubles. These defective cars, or lemons, do not reach the standards of performance and quality. Lemon laws are different depending on the state.

A car is considered a lemon when it has been fixed for the same problem four or more times, generally occurring as problems in the engine, transmission, paint, brakes, steering mechanisms, water and electrical wirings.

Certain states provide lemon law used cars. Used cars that have been abused, poorly maintained and repaired, rebuilt unprofessionally, or tampered with, may be considered lemons.

The Lemon Law Used Cars may oblige the dealer to provide a written warranty for the car he is selling, stating that, for a certain length of time, the dealer will repair any car defects covered by the warranty free of charge and may opt to reimburse you for the cost of the repairs. If the dealer is unable to repair the vehicle, then you are allowed to obtain a full refund of the purchase price, including the sales tax. The price may be deducted for any damage or modifications which decrease the car’s market value. The dealer may also offer a replacement car instead of a refund, which you can either accept or decline. If the dealer does not provide a warranty, you are still protected by your state lemon law. Some states also cover used motorcycles and leased cars as part of lemon law used cars. Private sales, however, are typically not included in the law.

Once you notice a defect in the car, you should immediately inform your dealer and request that the defects be repaired. If the dealer refuses to have the car repaired, you can either participate in an arbitration proceeding or sue the dealer in court within 4 years of delivery of the car. You may also make a complaint to the Department of Motor Vehicles, which can in turn suspend a dealer’s registration.

The lemon law for used cars do not apply if the problem is due to your abuse, neglect or manipulation of the car.


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