Almost anyone who purchases new cars instead of used ones probably does so because they do not want to deal with the uncertainty of whether their used vehicle will have defects or hidden damages. A new car, supposedly, will not carry the same risk of breakdowns, expensive repairs or multiple trips to the mechanic to diagnose a recurring problem. Unfortunately this is not true for many in Pennsylvania and across the country who purchase new vehicles. Some consumers end up invoking the lemon law in their states.
A lemon is a vehicle that has a recurring defect that a mechanic cannot locate or repair after numerous attempts. A lemon may also be a vehicle that has multiple issues that make the vehicle impossible or unsafe to operate. The vehicle must still be under warranty, and most states will only accept lemon law claims within a certain period of time after the vehicle’s purchase.
What if my car is a lemon?
Someone who is struggling to keep a new car on the road would be wise to keep careful documentation. This includes a log of every conversation with the dealer or manufacturer, every trip to the repair shop, and every adverse incident with the vehicle. Knowing the law in one’s state is important for knowing when it is appropriate to contact the manufacturer to start the lemon law process.
Under the Pennsylvania lemon law, a consumer who purchases a new vehicle with multiple or irreparable defects should receive a refund or a replacement vehicle. While some consumers may feel uncomfortable to keep returning to the dealer for additional repairs, it is important to remember that new vehicles are not cheap. For the money one pays, the manufacturer has an obligation to provide a safe and reliable vehicle.
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