Purchasing a new car or light truck should be a straightforward experience. Unfortunately, some vehicles come with persistent defects that compromise safety, reliability, or value. When manufacturers or dealers fail to address these issues, legal remedies may be necessary.
Washington’s Lemon Law: Scope and Limitations
Eligibility: Applies to new vehicles, including cars and light trucks, purchased or leased in Washington.
- Coverage Period: Covers defects reported within the first 24 months or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Repair Attempts: A vehicle may qualify as a “lemon” if:
- The same serious safety defect has been subject to repair at least two times,
- The same non-safety defect has been subject to repair at least four times, or
- The vehicle has been out of service for 30 cumulative days for any combination of defects.
- Remedies: Consumers may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund, including collateral costs such as taxes and fees.
It’s important to note that the Lemon Law does not cover used vehicles unless they are still under the manufacturer’s warranty and meet the above criteria.
Beyond the Lemon Law: Additional Legal Remedies
f your vehicle doesn’t meet the strict criteria of the Lemon Law, other legal avenues may be available:
- Breach of Warranty Claims: Both express and implied warranties may provide protection. If a dealer or manufacturer fails to honor these warranties, you may have grounds for a claim under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC).
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: This federal law governs written warranties on consumer products and can apply even when state lemon laws do not. It also allows for the recovery of attorney’s fees if the consumer prevails.
- Consumer Protection Act Violations: Misrepresentations or failure to repair known issues may constitute unfair or deceptive practices under Washington’s Consumer Protection Act, potentially leading to additional remedies.
- Revocation of Acceptance: If a defect substantially impairs the vehicle’s use or value, you may be entitled to revoke acceptance and seek a refund under the UCC.
How I Can Assist
With both professional and life experience in handling cases involving defective vehicles, I try to resolve these disputes in an economical fashion. Whether through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation, my goal is to achieve a fair outcome efficiently.
If you’re dealing with a car or light truck that isn’t performing as promised, don’t navigate the complexities alone. Contact me to discuss your situation and explore your legal options.