What Protection Do Used Cars Have In Lemon Law Legislation
Check for a warranty on your vehicle, or demand one before buying!
Used Car Lemon Laws are very dependent on the time of sale, and the state in which the vehicle was purchased. If you bought a car with "AS-IS NO WARRANTY" checked on the window sticker, then you may have limited protection, though you should still consult with an attorney if you believe that serious problems were hidden by the dealership. For many other vehicles, like rental returns and pre-owned cars, the manufacturer's warranty may still be in effect. You may also be able to negotiate or buy warranty protection on a used vehicle. Sometimes this comes in the form of a service contract. Used car lemon laws are very different from state to state, but usually they indicate that dealers have to respond to every question honestly, though any given dealer is unlikely to know about a particular vehicle's faults, and may sin by omission if not asked about serious issues. In many states a vehicle dealership may be required to tell you about vehicle history, such as a salvage title, use as a loaner or demonstration car, or even if it had been rented. Attorneys can also uncover facts about vehicles that may be useful in lemon law litigation if the vehicle is defective or has a history of issues that require a recall or refund.
Notes and Special Information
Special note: Always ask a licensed attorney in your state for the best information.