Lemon Law for New Cars
New vehicles are where lemon laws started, and every state's law covers them. If your new car, truck or SUV keeps failing in the same way while it is under the manufacturer's warranty, this is the page to start with.
The short versionAll 51 jurisdictions cover new vehicles in our records. Most look at how many times the same problem was repaired, or how many days the vehicle was in the shop, within about one to two years of delivery. The numbers differ by state.
How the 51 jurisdictions count
These ranges come from the same state records as each state's page.
28 states count 4 attempts for the same problem, 22 count 3, and 1 counts 2.
42 states use 30 days. The others use 15, 20 or 40.
21 states use 12 months, 18 use 24, 11 use 18, and 1 uses 36, counted from delivery.
Your state's page shows its exact numbers and any special rule, for example a shorter test for serious safety defects. Does Your Car Qualify?
What the law means by a new vehicle
The definitions vary, so treat this as a guide. For example, Ohio's law covers a purchaser of a passenger car or noncommercial motor vehicle, other than for resale.
| What to compare | Usually covered | Usually not covered |
|---|---|---|
| The vehicle | A car, truck or SUV bought new from a dealer, still under the manufacturer's warranty | A used vehicle bought outside the warranty (a few states protect used buyers separately) |
| The buyer | The first owner buying for personal use; in many states, a later owner while the warranty lasts | A purchase for resale, or in some states heavy business use |
| The problem | A serious defect the warranty covers: brakes, steering, engine, transmission, electrical, EV battery or charging | Normal wear, accident damage, misuse, or changes made after purchase |
| The timing | A problem reported, and repaired or attempted, inside your state's window | A problem first reported after the window or the warranty ended |
What to do while the car is new
- Write down your delivery date: every state's clock starts there
- Report each problem to the dealer in writing and ask for a repair order that lists your complaint
- Use an authorized dealer for warranty repairs
- Keep a running list of the days the car is at the shop
- Keep every document in one place
What it costs you
Most lemon law attorneys represent consumers with zero out-of-pocket costs. Thanks to state and federal fee-shifting laws, the vehicle manufacturer is legally responsible for paying your attorney's fees when you win or settle your claim. Always review your specific retainer agreement with your attorney.
Check My Car Free
Sources. State lemon law statutes (for example Ohio Rev. Code §§ 1345.71 to 1345.73), cited on each state page; LemonIQ's state records; the Center for Auto Safety, autosafety.org. Lemon Learn is general information, not legal advice.