How many repair attempts does District of Columbia lemon law require?

District of Columbia lemon law requires 4 repair attempts for the same defect, or 30 or more days out of service, within 18 months of vehicle delivery under D.C. Code § 50-501.

What is the time limit for a lemon law claim in District of Columbia?

Under D.C. Code § 50-501, District of Columbia consumers typically have 18 months from vehicle delivery to assert lemon law rights. The defect must appear within the manufacturer's original warranty period.

Does District of Columbia lemon law cover used cars?

District of Columbia lemon law primarily covers new vehicles purchased or leased under the original manufacturer's warranty. Coverage for used vehicles depends on whether the factory warranty was still active at purchase.

What defects qualify under District of Columbia lemon law?

Under District of Columbia lemon law, a defect must substantially impair the vehicle's use, value, or safety and must occur within the warranty period. Qualifying defects include transmission failures, brake system problems, engine issues, and persistent electrical faults.

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DC · Lemon Law

District of Columbia
Lemon Law

D.C. Code § 50-501

Statutory Thresholds

Repair Attempts

for same defect

Days Out of Service

within warranty

Eligibility Window

18 mo

from delivery

Thresholds are guidelines — actual eligibility depends on your specific warranty and circumstances. Check your vehicle to get a case score.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Case Check · DC

Do you qualify under D.C. Code § 50-501?

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Hi, I'm Julie. I'll ask a few questions to see where you stand under D.C. Code § 50-501 — I've noted you're asking about District of Columbia. What's going on with your vehicle?

District of ColumbiaLemon Law

Do you qualify under D.C. Code § 50-501?

District of Columbia
Lemon Law