🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 93 (from laksa081)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa093.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/lemon-law/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/lemon-law/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/lemon-law\/","crawl_time":1775746480,"first_indexed_time":1552409155,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,justia!www,\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/lemon-law\/ s443","src_root_hash":"8763204509677338093","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Lemon Law for Consumers | Consumer Protection Law Center | Justia","meta_descriptions":["What are the federal and state laws that protect consumers who buy defective automobiles, often known as lemons, and what remedies do they provide?"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"State and federal laws protect consumers who purchase defective automobiles. These laws, known as “lemon laws” after a slang term for a defective car, enable purchasers to have the defect repaired, or to receive a replacement or a refund. A federal statute applies nationwide, but some state laws may have a broader scope or may allow more remedies for consumers. Some states’\nconsumer protection\nstatutes have expanded the definition of “lemon” to other goods, including animals.\nLemon Laws in General\n“Lemon,” as a slang term for a defective vehicle, dates back to the early 20th century. It gained fame, so to speak, thanks to a 1962 print advertisement for the Volkswagen Beetle that used the word in a self-deprecating manner. A paper published by the economist George Akerlof in 1970, entitled “The Market for ‘Lemons,’” helped associate the word with the importance of strong consumer protection laws that discourage\nauto dealers\nfrom withholding negative information from buyers.\nLemon laws originated as laws protecting consumers from defective vehicles, but they have since expanded in many jurisdictions to cover other types of consumer goods.\nLemon laws are generally based on two types of\nwarranties\n. An express warranty is a statement made by a manufacturer, distributor, or seller about the quality of a product. An implied warranty is based on common law or statute. It is broader in scope than an express warranty, and it has the purpose of assuring consumers that goods meet a minimum standard of quality and suitability for their intended purpose.\nManufacturers, and in some cases distributors and sellers, are obligated to correct any\ndefects in their products\n, to replace a defective product, or to refund a customer’s money. Lemon laws provide consumers with a means of enforcing these obligations.\nIf a seller offers a vehicle for sale on an “as is” basis, and a buyer purchases it with knowledge of this, lemon laws do not apply because the seller has disclaimed all warranties.\nUniform Commercial Code\nThe Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is the general source of contract law adopted in some form by all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Article 2 defines many of the implied warranties covered by lemon laws and provides guidelines for express warranties. If a seller of goods makes an “affirmation of fact or promise” about the goods to a buyer, and it “becomes part of the basis of the bargain” between the buyer and the seller, that statement becomes an express warranty that the buyer may enforce. This applies even if the seller does not use words like “warrant“ or “guarantee,” or other formal legal language.\nAny seller of goods is bound by the implied warranty of merchantability, which provides that goods are of reasonable quality, that they are of the same or similar quality as other goods of the same type, that they conform to any descriptions made by the seller, and that they are fit for their ordinary purpose. If a seller knows that a buyer has a specific use for certain goods, the implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose protects the buyer. Both of these implied warranties are applicable to the sale and purchase of automobiles.\nExpress warranty\n= an express promise about a product made verbally or in writing, such as in a sales contract or an advertisement\nImplied warranty of merchantability\n= an implied promise that the product is fit for the purposes for which products like it are sold\nImplied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose\n= an implied promise that the product is fit for the particular purpose for which the seller, on whom the consumer relies for their skill or judgment, knows that the consumer will use it\nFederal Lemon Law\nThe\nMagnuson-Moss Warranty Act\n, first enacted in 1975,\ngoverns\nconsumer product warranties. It applies to any consumer goods used by individuals or families with a retail price of $15 or more. It requires any seller making an express warranty to make a full disclosure, in easy-to-understand language, of the warranty’s terms and conditions. Sellers may not limit consumers’ rights under any implied warranties, may not impose any duties on consumers other than notifying them of defects, and must attempt repair, replacement, or refund if possible. The statute does not replace or supersede any rights a consumer may have under state law.\nState Lemon Laws\nAt the state level, lemon laws vary in four key areas:\nTransaction type: Many state lemon laws only apply to new-car purchases, while others also extend to used and leased cars.\nVehicle type: State lemon laws apply to cars and trucks typically purchased for personal or household use. In some states, the laws may also extend protection to motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles (RVs), and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).\nDuration of protection: State lemon laws only protect vehicles for a limited period. This is usually measured in time or miles, such as 12 months or 12,000 miles.\nSeller’s obligation to repair: State lemon laws set a limit on the number of attempts a seller or manufacturer must make to repair a defect. Four attempts is generally considered reasonable.\nTo give one example, the main\nNew York lemon law\napplies to personal or family cars, but not motorcycles, ATVs, or the non-vehicular portions of RVs. To be covered, a vehicle must have had a manufacturer’s express warranty at the time of the original purchase, it must have been purchased, transferred, or leased within the state of New York during the first two years after its initial delivery or its first 18,000 miles, whichever is sooner, and it must be registered in the state of New York.\nLast reviewed October 2025","attrs_markdown":"[![Justia](https:\/\/justatic.com\/v\/20260408151251\/branding\/logos\/sites\/justia.svg)](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/ \"Justia\")\n\n![search](https:\/\/justatic.com\/v\/20260408151251\/shared\/images\/icons\/svgfiles\/white\/search.svg)\n\n![My Account](https:\/\/justatic.com\/v\/20260408151251\/shared\/images\/icons\/svgfiles\/white\/profile.svg)\n\n[Log In](https:\/\/accounts.justia.com\/signin?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.justia.com%2Fconsumer%2Fdeceptive-practices-and-fraud%2Flemon-law%2F) [Sign Up](https:\/\/accounts.justia.com\/)\n\n- [Find a Lawyer](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/lawyers)\n- [Ask a Lawyer](https:\/\/answers.justia.com\/)\n- [Research the Law](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/)\n- [Law Schools](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/law-schools\/)\n- [Laws & Regs](https:\/\/law.justia.com\/)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/connect.justia.com\/case-law-summary-newsletters)\n- [Marketing Solutions](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/marketing\/)\n  - 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[PPC Management](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/marketing\/amplify\/cpc-ppc\/)\n  - [Google Business Profile](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/marketing\/amplify\/google-business-profile\/)\n  - [Social Media](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/marketing\/amplify\/social-media-networking\/)\n  \n  - [Justia Onward Blog](https:\/\/onward.justia.com\/)\n\n[Justia](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/)  [Consumer Protection Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/)   [Deceptive Practices, Fraud, and Consumers' Legal Rights](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/)   Lemon Law for Consumers\n\n# Lemon Law for Consumers\nLooking for a Lawyer?\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3csvg%20width='40'%20height='45'%20viewBox='0%200%2040%2045'%20fill='none'%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%3e%3cg%20clip-path='url\$%23clip0_5097_2286\$'%3e%3cpath%20d='M8.68167%2012.3558C0.486833%2020.2023%204.28723%2034.807%2016.2416%2034.5509C24.0007%2034.7314%2031.5607%2026.5162%2027.9836%2018.8856C27.6446%2018.0698%2028.0477%2017.1402%2028.8841%2016.8094C32.1528%2015.7568%2032.4325%2023.1935%2031.8032%2025.2292C30.1207%2034.7389%2018.9753%2040.3172%2010.2765%2036.6067C-1.13945%2032.1163%20-2.80897%2017.49%206.43979%209.70166'%20fill='black'\/%3e%3cpath%20d='M37.1237%2043.7631C36.831%2043.7631%2036.5384%2043.6543%2036.3151%2043.4364L26.9043%2034.2576C26.4577%2033.822%2026.4577%2033.1158%2026.9043%2032.6802C27.3509%2032.2447%2028.0749%2032.2447%2028.5215%2032.6802L37.9324%2041.8591C38.6703%2042.5327%2038.0819%2043.8057%2037.1237%2043.7631Z'%20fill='black'\/%3e%3cpath%20d='M37.1235%2044.9979C36.5068%2044.9979%2035.8902%2044.7684%2035.4197%2044.3096L30.1551%2039.1747C27.933%2036.8901%2031.3508%2033.7248%2033.5627%2035.8513C33.5626%2035.8512%2038.8272%2040.986%2038.8272%2040.986C40.3838%2042.407%2039.141%2045.0863%2037.1235%2044.9979Z'%20fill='black'\/%3e%3cpath%20d='M20.3913%200C21.3949%206.06351%2017.1689%2011.8289%2010.9521%2012.8774C17.1689%2011.8289%2023.0222%2015.8944%2024.0259%2021.9579C23.0222%2015.8944%2027.2483%2010.129%2033.465%209.08053C27.2482%2010.129%2021.3949%206.06351%2020.3913%200Z'%20fill='black'\/%3e%3cpath%20d='M14.0928%2014.4922C14.5709%2017.3802%2012.5581%2020.1262%209.59717%2020.6255C12.5581%2020.1262%2015.3459%2022.0625%2015.824%2024.9504C15.3459%2022.0625%2017.3587%2019.3165%2020.3196%2018.8171C17.3587%2019.3165%2014.5709%2017.3802%2014.0928%2014.4922Z'%20fill='black'\/%3e%3cpath%20d='M26.4074%200.284058C26.667%201.85247%2025.5739%203.34375%2023.9658%203.61495C25.5739%203.34375%2027.0879%204.39533%2027.3475%205.96375C27.0879%204.39533%2028.181%202.90406%2029.7891%202.63285C28.181%202.90406%2026.667%201.85247%2026.4074%200.284058Z'%20fill='black'\/%3e%3cpath%20d='M9.2932%2011.9179C9.03809%2012.0786%208.62445%2012.4055%208.37741%2012.5859C6.44049%2013.7833%204.62686%2010.9055%206.52279%209.64249C8.77126%207.78012%2010.7933%2010.7478%209.29317%2011.9179L9.2932%2011.9179Z'%20fill='black'\/%3e%3c\/g%3e%3cdefs%3e%3cclipPath%20id='clip0_5097_2286'%3e%3crect%20width='39.0566'%20height='45'%20fill='white'%20transform='translate\$0.47168\$'\/%3e%3c\/clipPath%3e%3c\/defs%3e%3c\/svg%3e)\n\nState and federal laws protect consumers who purchase defective automobiles. These laws, known as “lemon laws” after a slang term for a defective car, enable purchasers to have the defect repaired, or to receive a replacement or a refund. A federal statute applies nationwide, but some state laws may have a broader scope or may allow more remedies for consumers. Some states’ [consumer protection](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer) statutes have expanded the definition of “lemon” to other goods, including animals.\n\n## Lemon Laws in General\n“Lemon,” as a slang term for a defective vehicle, dates back to the early 20th century. It gained fame, so to speak, thanks to a 1962 print advertisement for the Volkswagen Beetle that used the word in a self-deprecating manner. A paper published by the economist George Akerlof in 1970, entitled “The Market for ‘Lemons,’” helped associate the word with the importance of strong consumer protection laws that discourage [auto dealers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/auto-dealer-fraud\/) from withholding negative information from buyers.\n\nDid You Know?\n\nLemon laws originated as laws protecting consumers from defective vehicles, but they have since expanded in many jurisdictions to cover other types of consumer goods.\n\nLemon laws are generally based on two types of [warranties](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/breach-of-warranty\/). An express warranty is a statement made by a manufacturer, distributor, or seller about the quality of a product. An implied warranty is based on common law or statute. It is broader in scope than an express warranty, and it has the purpose of assuring consumers that goods meet a minimum standard of quality and suitability for their intended purpose.\n\nManufacturers, and in some cases distributors and sellers, are obligated to correct any [defects in their products](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/dangerous-or-defective-products-recalls\/), to replace a defective product, or to refund a customer’s money. Lemon laws provide consumers with a means of enforcing these obligations.\n\nIf a seller offers a vehicle for sale on an “as is” basis, and a buyer purchases it with knowledge of this, lemon laws do not apply because the seller has disclaimed all warranties.\n\n## Uniform Commercial Code\nThe Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is the general source of contract law adopted in some form by all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Article 2 defines many of the implied warranties covered by lemon laws and provides guidelines for express warranties. If a seller of goods makes an “affirmation of fact or promise” about the goods to a buyer, and it “becomes part of the basis of the bargain” between the buyer and the seller, that statement becomes an express warranty that the buyer may enforce. This applies even if the seller does not use words like “warrant“ or “guarantee,” or other formal legal language.\n\nAny seller of goods is bound by the implied warranty of merchantability, which provides that goods are of reasonable quality, that they are of the same or similar quality as other goods of the same type, that they conform to any descriptions made by the seller, and that they are fit for their ordinary purpose. If a seller knows that a buyer has a specific use for certain goods, the implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose protects the buyer. Both of these implied warranties are applicable to the sale and purchase of automobiles.\n\n**Express warranty** = an express promise about a product made verbally or in writing, such as in a sales contract or an advertisement  \n **Implied warranty of merchantability** = an implied promise that the product is fit for the purposes for which products like it are sold  \n **Implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose** = an implied promise that the product is fit for the particular purpose for which the seller, on whom the consumer relies for their skill or judgment, knows that the consumer will use it\n\n## Federal Lemon Law\nThe [Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act](https:\/\/law.justia.com\/codes\/us\/title-15\/chapter-50\/), first enacted in 1975, [governs](https:\/\/law.justia.com\/cfr\/title16\/16cfr700_main_02.html) consumer product warranties. It applies to any consumer goods used by individuals or families with a retail price of \\$15 or more. It requires any seller making an express warranty to make a full disclosure, in easy-to-understand language, of the warranty’s terms and conditions. Sellers may not limit consumers’ rights under any implied warranties, may not impose any duties on consumers other than notifying them of defects, and must attempt repair, replacement, or refund if possible. The statute does not replace or supersede any rights a consumer may have under state law.\n\n## State Lemon Laws\nAt the state level, lemon laws vary in four key areas:\n\n- Transaction type: Many state lemon laws only apply to new-car purchases, while others also extend to used and leased cars.\n- Vehicle type: State lemon laws apply to cars and trucks typically purchased for personal or household use. In some states, the laws may also extend protection to motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles (RVs), and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).\n- Duration of protection: State lemon laws only protect vehicles for a limited period. This is usually measured in time or miles, such as 12 months or 12,000 miles.\n- Seller’s obligation to repair: State lemon laws set a limit on the number of attempts a seller or manufacturer must make to repair a defect. Four attempts is generally considered reasonable.\n\nTo give one example, the main [New York lemon law](https:\/\/law.justia.com\/codes\/new-york\/gbs\/article-11-a\/198-a\/) applies to personal or family cars, but not motorcycles, ATVs, or the non-vehicular portions of RVs. To be covered, a vehicle must have had a manufacturer’s express warranty at the time of the original purchase, it must have been purchased, transferred, or leased within the state of New York during the first two years after its initial delivery or its first 18,000 miles, whichever is sooner, and it must be registered in the state of New York.\n\n*Last reviewed October 2025*\n\nConsumer Protection Law Center Contents\n\n- [Consumer Protection Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/)\n- [Consumer Rights and the Law](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/)\n- [Deceptive Practices, Fraud, and Consumers' Legal Rights](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/)\n  - [Auto Dealer Fraud & Consumer Protection Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/auto-dealer-fraud\/)\n  - [Securities Fraud Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/broker-securities-fraud\/)\n  - [Credit Card Fraud & Consumers' Legal Rights](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/credit-card-fraud\/)\n  - [Deceptive Healthcare Practices & Consumers' Legal Rights](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/deceptive-health-care-practices\/)\n  - [Fake Contests and Sweepstakes & Legal Protections for Defrauded Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/fake-contests-sweepstakes\/)\n  - [False Advertising Under Consumer Protection Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/false-advertising\/)\n  - [Construction Contractor Fraud & Legal Concerns for Homeowners](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/home-construction-repair\/)\n  - [Investment Fraud Law for Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/investment-fraud\/)\n  - [Lemon Law for Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/lemon-law\/)\n  - [Mortgage Fraud & Legal Issues for Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/mortgage-fraud\/)\n  - [Undisclosed Fees & Consumers' Legal Rights](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/undisclosed-fees\/)\n  - [Telemarketing Violations of Consumer Protection Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/unwanted-telemarketing\/)\n  - [Lemon Laws: 50-State Survey](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/lemon-laws-50-state-survey\/)\n- [Credit, Debt, and Collections Legal Issues for Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/credit-debt-and-collections\/)\n- [Identity Theft Under Consumer Protection Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/identity-theft\/)\n- [Enforcing Your Legal Rights as a Consumer](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/enforcing-your-rights-as-a-consumer\/)\n- [Consumer Protection Laws: 50-State Survey](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-laws-50-state-survey\/)\n- [Consumer Protection Law FAQs](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/faqs\/)\n- [Find a Consumer Law Lawyer](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/lawyers\/consumer-law\/)\n\nRelated Areas\n\n- [Debt Relief & Management Legal Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/debt-management\/)\n- [Bankruptcy Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/bankruptcy\/)\n- [Foreclosure Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/foreclosure\/)\n- [Products Liability Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/products-liability\/)\n- [Insurance Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/insurance\/)\n- [Health Care Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/health-care\/)\n- [Elder Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/elder-law\/)\n- [Banking and Finance Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/banking-finance\/)\n- [Home Ownership Legal Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/real-estate\/home-ownership\/)\n- [Landlord - Tenant Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/real-estate\/landlord-tenant\/)\n- [Communications and Internet Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/communications-internet\/)\n\n- [Consumer Protection Law Center](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/)\n- [Consumer Rights and the Law](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/)\n  - [Product Safety Laws Protecting Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/dangerous-or-defective-products-recalls\/)\n    - [Breach of Warranty Legal Claims Based on Defective Consumer Products](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/dangerous-or-defective-products-recalls\/breach-of-warranty\/)\n  - [Business Bankruptcy & Consumer Rights Under the Law](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/bankrupt-businesses\/)\n  - [Cooling Off Periods and Consumer Rights to Legally Cancel Contracts](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/canceling-contracts-cooling-off-rules\/)\n  - [Scams Against the Elderly & Consumer Fraud Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/elder-consumer-rights\/)\n  - [Background Checks & Laws Protecting Employee Privacy](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/employment-background-checks\/)\n  - [Insurance Policies and Consumer Protections Under the Law](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/insurance\/)\n  - [Tenants' Rights & Consumer Protection Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/tenants-rights\/)\n  - [Access to Utility Services & Consumer Protection Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/consumer-protection-law\/utilities-and-energy\/)\n- [Deceptive Practices, Fraud, and Consumers' Legal Rights](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/)\n  - [Auto Dealer Fraud & Consumer Protection 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Homeowners](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/home-construction-repair\/)\n  - [Investment Fraud Law for Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/investment-fraud\/)\n  - [Lemon Law for Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/lemon-law\/)\n  - [Mortgage Fraud & Legal Issues for Consumers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/mortgage-fraud\/)\n  - [Undisclosed Fees & Consumers' Legal Rights](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/undisclosed-fees\/)\n  - [Telemarketing Violations of Consumer Protection Laws](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/unwanted-telemarketing\/)\n  - [Lemon Laws: 50-State Survey](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/deceptive-practices-and-fraud\/lemon-laws-50-state-survey\/)\n- [Credit, Debt, and Collections Legal Issues for 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Solutions](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/marketing\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"State and federal laws protect consumers who purchase defective automobiles. These laws, known as “lemon laws” after a slang term for a defective car, enable purchasers to have the defect repaired, or to receive a replacement or a refund. A federal statute applies nationwide, but some state laws may have a broader scope or may allow more remedies for consumers. Some states’ [consumer protection](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer) statutes have expanded the definition of “lemon” to other goods, including animals.\n\n## Lemon Laws in General\n“Lemon,” as a slang term for a defective vehicle, dates back to the early 20th century. It gained fame, so to speak, thanks to a 1962 print advertisement for the Volkswagen Beetle that used the word in a self-deprecating manner. A paper published by the economist George Akerlof in 1970, entitled “The Market for ‘Lemons,’” helped associate the word with the importance of strong consumer protection laws that discourage [auto dealers](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/auto-dealer-fraud\/) from withholding negative information from buyers.\n\nLemon laws originated as laws protecting consumers from defective vehicles, but they have since expanded in many jurisdictions to cover other types of consumer goods.\n\nLemon laws are generally based on two types of [warranties](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/breach-of-warranty\/). An express warranty is a statement made by a manufacturer, distributor, or seller about the quality of a product. An implied warranty is based on common law or statute. It is broader in scope than an express warranty, and it has the purpose of assuring consumers that goods meet a minimum standard of quality and suitability for their intended purpose.\n\nManufacturers, and in some cases distributors and sellers, are obligated to correct any [defects in their products](https:\/\/www.justia.com\/consumer\/dangerous-or-defective-products-recalls\/), to replace a defective product, or to refund a customer’s money. Lemon laws provide consumers with a means of enforcing these obligations.\n\nIf a seller offers a vehicle for sale on an “as is” basis, and a buyer purchases it with knowledge of this, lemon laws do not apply because the seller has disclaimed all warranties.\n\n## Uniform Commercial Code\nThe Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is the general source of contract law adopted in some form by all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Article 2 defines many of the implied warranties covered by lemon laws and provides guidelines for express warranties. If a seller of goods makes an “affirmation of fact or promise” about the goods to a buyer, and it “becomes part of the basis of the bargain” between the buyer and the seller, that statement becomes an express warranty that the buyer may enforce. This applies even if the seller does not use words like “warrant“ or “guarantee,” or other formal legal language.\n\nAny seller of goods is bound by the implied warranty of merchantability, which provides that goods are of reasonable quality, that they are of the same or similar quality as other goods of the same type, that they conform to any descriptions made by the seller, and that they are fit for their ordinary purpose. If a seller knows that a buyer has a specific use for certain goods, the implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose protects the buyer. Both of these implied warranties are applicable to the sale and purchase of automobiles.\n\n**Express warranty** = an express promise about a product made verbally or in writing, such as in a sales contract or an advertisement  \n **Implied warranty of merchantability** = an implied promise that the product is fit for the purposes for which products like it are sold  \n **Implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose** = an implied promise that the product is fit for the particular purpose for which the seller, on whom the consumer relies for their skill or judgment, knows that the consumer will use it\n\n## Federal Lemon Law\nThe [Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act](https:\/\/law.justia.com\/codes\/us\/title-15\/chapter-50\/), first enacted in 1975, [governs](https:\/\/law.justia.com\/cfr\/title16\/16cfr700_main_02.html) consumer product warranties. It applies to any consumer goods used by individuals or families with a retail price of \\$15 or more. It requires any seller making an express warranty to make a full disclosure, in easy-to-understand language, of the warranty’s terms and conditions. Sellers may not limit consumers’ rights under any implied warranties, may not impose any duties on consumers other than notifying them of defects, and must attempt repair, replacement, or refund if possible. The statute does not replace or supersede any rights a consumer may have under state law.\n\n## State Lemon Laws\nAt the state level, lemon laws vary in four key areas:\n\n- Transaction type: Many state lemon laws only apply to new-car purchases, while others also extend to used and leased cars.\n- Vehicle type: State lemon laws apply to cars and trucks typically purchased for personal or household use. In some states, the laws may also extend protection to motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles (RVs), and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).\n- Duration of protection: State lemon laws only protect vehicles for a limited period. This is usually measured in time or miles, such as 12 months or 12,000 miles.\n- Seller’s obligation to repair: State lemon laws set a limit on the number of attempts a seller or manufacturer must make to repair a defect. Four attempts is generally considered reasonable.\n\nTo give one example, the main [New York lemon law](https:\/\/law.justia.com\/codes\/new-york\/gbs\/article-11-a\/198-a\/) applies to personal or family cars, but not motorcycles, ATVs, or the non-vehicular portions of RVs. To be covered, a vehicle must have had a manufacturer’s express warranty at the time of the original purchase, it must have been purchased, transferred, or leased within the state of New York during the first two years after its initial delivery or its first 18,000 miles, whichever is sooner, and it must be registered in the state of New York.\n\n*Last reviewed October 2025*","meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/lemon-law/
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Meta Title	Lemon Law for Consumers \| Consumer Protection Law Center \| Justia
Meta Description	What are the federal and state laws that protect consumers who buy defective automobiles, often known as lemons, and what remedies do they provide?
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Boilerpipe Text	State and federal laws protect consumers who purchase defective automobiles. These laws, known as “lemon laws” after a slang term for a defective car, enable purchasers to have the defect repaired, or to receive a replacement or a refund. A federal statute applies nationwide, but some state laws may have a broader scope or may allow more remedies for consumers. Some states’ consumer protection statutes have expanded the definition of “lemon” to other goods, including animals. Lemon Laws in General “Lemon,” as a slang term for a defective vehicle, dates back to the early 20th century. It gained fame, so to speak, thanks to a 1962 print advertisement for the Volkswagen Beetle that used the word in a self-deprecating manner. A paper published by the economist George Akerlof in 1970, entitled “The Market for ‘Lemons,’” helped associate the word with the importance of strong consumer protection laws that discourage auto dealers from withholding negative information from buyers. Lemon laws originated as laws protecting consumers from defective vehicles, but they have since expanded in many jurisdictions to cover other types of consumer goods. Lemon laws are generally based on two types of warranties . An express warranty is a statement made by a manufacturer, distributor, or seller about the quality of a product. An implied warranty is based on common law or statute. It is broader in scope than an express warranty, and it has the purpose of assuring consumers that goods meet a minimum standard of quality and suitability for their intended purpose. Manufacturers, and in some cases distributors and sellers, are obligated to correct any defects in their products , to replace a defective product, or to refund a customer’s money. Lemon laws provide consumers with a means of enforcing these obligations. If a seller offers a vehicle for sale on an “as is” basis, and a buyer purchases it with knowledge of this, lemon laws do not apply because the seller has disclaimed all warranties. Uniform Commercial Code The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is the general source of contract law adopted in some form by all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Article 2 defines many of the implied warranties covered by lemon laws and provides guidelines for express warranties. If a seller of goods makes an “affirmation of fact or promise” about the goods to a buyer, and it “becomes part of the basis of the bargain” between the buyer and the seller, that statement becomes an express warranty that the buyer may enforce. This applies even if the seller does not use words like “warrant“ or “guarantee,” or other formal legal language. Any seller of goods is bound by the implied warranty of merchantability, which provides that goods are of reasonable quality, that they are of the same or similar quality as other goods of the same type, that they conform to any descriptions made by the seller, and that they are fit for their ordinary purpose. If a seller knows that a buyer has a specific use for certain goods, the implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose protects the buyer. Both of these implied warranties are applicable to the sale and purchase of automobiles. Express warranty = an express promise about a product made verbally or in writing, such as in a sales contract or an advertisement Implied warranty of merchantability = an implied promise that the product is fit for the purposes for which products like it are sold Implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose = an implied promise that the product is fit for the particular purpose for which the seller, on whom the consumer relies for their skill or judgment, knows that the consumer will use it Federal Lemon Law The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act , first enacted in 1975, governs consumer product warranties. It applies to any consumer goods used by individuals or families with a retail price of $15 or more. It requires any seller making an express warranty to make a full disclosure, in easy-to-understand language, of the warranty’s terms and conditions. Sellers may not limit consumers’ rights under any implied warranties, may not impose any duties on consumers other than notifying them of defects, and must attempt repair, replacement, or refund if possible. The statute does not replace or supersede any rights a consumer may have under state law. State Lemon Laws At the state level, lemon laws vary in four key areas: Transaction type: Many state lemon laws only apply to new-car purchases, while others also extend to used and leased cars. Vehicle type: State lemon laws apply to cars and trucks typically purchased for personal or household use. In some states, the laws may also extend protection to motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles (RVs), and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Duration of protection: State lemon laws only protect vehicles for a limited period. This is usually measured in time or miles, such as 12 months or 12,000 miles. Seller’s obligation to repair: State lemon laws set a limit on the number of attempts a seller or manufacturer must make to repair a defect. Four attempts is generally considered reasonable. To give one example, the main New York lemon law applies to personal or family cars, but not motorcycles, ATVs, or the non-vehicular portions of RVs. To be covered, a vehicle must have had a manufacturer’s express warranty at the time of the original purchase, it must have been purchased, transferred, or leased within the state of New York during the first two years after its initial delivery or its first 18,000 miles, whichever is sooner, and it must be registered in the state of New York. Last reviewed October 2025
Markdown	[![Justia](https://justatic.com/v/20260408151251/branding/logos/sites/justia.svg)](https://www.justia.com/ "Justia") ![search](https://justatic.com/v/20260408151251/shared/images/icons/svgfiles/white/search.svg) ![My Account](https://justatic.com/v/20260408151251/shared/images/icons/svgfiles/white/profile.svg) [Log In](https://accounts.justia.com/signin?destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.justia.com%2Fconsumer%2Fdeceptive-practices-and-fraud%2Flemon-law%2F) [Sign Up](https://accounts.justia.com/) - [Find a Lawyer](https://www.justia.com/lawyers) - [Ask a Lawyer](https://answers.justia.com/) - [Research the Law](https://www.justia.com/) - [Law Schools](https://www.justia.com/law-schools/) - [Laws & Regs](https://law.justia.com/) - [Newsletters](https://connect.justia.com/case-law-summary-newsletters) - [Marketing Solutions](https://www.justia.com/marketing/) - [Justia Connect](https://www.justia.com/marketing/connect/) - [Pro Membership](https://www.justia.com/marketing/connect/#pro-membership) - [Practice Membership](https://www.justia.com/marketing/connect/#practice-membership) - [Public Membership](https://www.justia.com/marketing/connect/#public-membership) - [Justia Lawyer Directory](https://www.justia.com/marketing/lawyer-directory/) - [Platinum Placements](https://www.justia.com/marketing/lawyer-directory/platinum/) - [Gold Placements](https://www.justia.com/marketing/lawyer-directory/gold/) - [Justia Elevate](https://www.justia.com/marketing/elevate/) - [SEO](https://www.justia.com/marketing/elevate/search-engine-optimization/) - [Websites](https://www.justia.com/marketing/elevate/law-firm-websites/) - [Blogs](https://www.justia.com/marketing/elevate/law-blogs/) - [Justia Amplify](https://www.justia.com/marketing/amplify/) - [PPC Management](https://www.justia.com/marketing/amplify/cpc-ppc/) - [Google Business Profile](https://www.justia.com/marketing/amplify/google-business-profile/) - [Social Media](https://www.justia.com/marketing/amplify/social-media-networking/) - [Justia Onward Blog](https://onward.justia.com/) [Justia](https://www.justia.com/) [Consumer Protection Law Center](https://www.justia.com/consumer/) [Deceptive Practices, Fraud, and Consumers' Legal Rights](https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/) Lemon Law for Consumers # Lemon Law for Consumers Looking for a Lawyer? ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3csvg%20width='40'%20height='45'%20viewBox='0%200%2040%2045'%20fill='none'%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3cg%20clip-path='url$%23clip0_5097_2286$'%3e%3cpath%20d='M8.68167%2012.3558C0.486833%2020.2023%204.28723%2034.807%2016.2416%2034.5509C24.0007%2034.7314%2031.5607%2026.5162%2027.9836%2018.8856C27.6446%2018.0698%2028.0477%2017.1402%2028.8841%2016.8094C32.1528%2015.7568%2032.4325%2023.1935%2031.8032%2025.2292C30.1207%2034.7389%2018.9753%2040.3172%2010.2765%2036.6067C-1.13945%2032.1163%20-2.80897%2017.49%206.43979%209.70166'%20fill='black'/%3e%3cpath%20d='M37.1237%2043.7631C36.831%2043.7631%2036.5384%2043.6543%2036.3151%2043.4364L26.9043%2034.2576C26.4577%2033.822%2026.4577%2033.1158%2026.9043%2032.6802C27.3509%2032.2447%2028.0749%2032.2447%2028.5215%2032.6802L37.9324%2041.8591C38.6703%2042.5327%2038.0819%2043.8057%2037.1237%2043.7631Z'%20fill='black'/%3e%3cpath%20d='M37.1235%2044.9979C36.5068%2044.9979%2035.8902%2044.7684%2035.4197%2044.3096L30.1551%2039.1747C27.933%2036.8901%2031.3508%2033.7248%2033.5627%2035.8513C33.5626%2035.8512%2038.8272%2040.986%2038.8272%2040.986C40.3838%2042.407%2039.141%2045.0863%2037.1235%2044.9979Z'%20fill='black'/%3e%3cpath%20d='M20.3913%200C21.3949%206.06351%2017.1689%2011.8289%2010.9521%2012.8774C17.1689%2011.8289%2023.0222%2015.8944%2024.0259%2021.9579C23.0222%2015.8944%2027.2483%2010.129%2033.465%209.08053C27.2482%2010.129%2021.3949%206.06351%2020.3913%200Z'%20fill='black'/%3e%3cpath%20d='M14.0928%2014.4922C14.5709%2017.3802%2012.5581%2020.1262%209.59717%2020.6255C12.5581%2020.1262%2015.3459%2022.0625%2015.824%2024.9504C15.3459%2022.0625%2017.3587%2019.3165%2020.3196%2018.8171C17.3587%2019.3165%2014.5709%2017.3802%2014.0928%2014.4922Z'%20fill='black'/%3e%3cpath%20d='M26.4074%200.284058C26.667%201.85247%2025.5739%203.34375%2023.9658%203.61495C25.5739%203.34375%2027.0879%204.39533%2027.3475%205.96375C27.0879%204.39533%2028.181%202.90406%2029.7891%202.63285C28.181%202.90406%2026.667%201.85247%2026.4074%200.284058Z'%20fill='black'/%3e%3cpath%20d='M9.2932%2011.9179C9.03809%2012.0786%208.62445%2012.4055%208.37741%2012.5859C6.44049%2013.7833%204.62686%2010.9055%206.52279%209.64249C8.77126%207.78012%2010.7933%2010.7478%209.29317%2011.9179L9.2932%2011.9179Z'%20fill='black'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3cdefs%3e%3cclipPath%20id='clip0_5097_2286'%3e%3crect%20width='39.0566'%20height='45'%20fill='white'%20transform='translate$0.47168$'/%3e%3c/clipPath%3e%3c/defs%3e%3c/svg%3e) State and federal laws protect consumers who purchase defective automobiles. These laws, known as “lemon laws” after a slang term for a defective car, enable purchasers to have the defect repaired, or to receive a replacement or a refund. A federal statute applies nationwide, but some state laws may have a broader scope or may allow more remedies for consumers. Some states’ [consumer protection](https://www.justia.com/consumer) statutes have expanded the definition of “lemon” to other goods, including animals. ## Lemon Laws in General “Lemon,” as a slang term for a defective vehicle, dates back to the early 20th century. It gained fame, so to speak, thanks to a 1962 print advertisement for the Volkswagen Beetle that used the word in a self-deprecating manner. A paper published by the economist George Akerlof in 1970, entitled “The Market for ‘Lemons,’” helped associate the word with the importance of strong consumer protection laws that discourage [auto dealers](https://www.justia.com/consumer/auto-dealer-fraud/) from withholding negative information from buyers. Did You Know? Lemon laws originated as laws protecting consumers from defective vehicles, but they have since expanded in many jurisdictions to cover other types of consumer goods. Lemon laws are generally based on two types of [warranties](https://www.justia.com/consumer/breach-of-warranty/). An express warranty is a statement made by a manufacturer, distributor, or seller about the quality of a product. An implied warranty is based on common law or statute. It is broader in scope than an express warranty, and it has the purpose of assuring consumers that goods meet a minimum standard of quality and suitability for their intended purpose. Manufacturers, and in some cases distributors and sellers, are obligated to correct any [defects in their products](https://www.justia.com/consumer/dangerous-or-defective-products-recalls/), to replace a defective product, or to refund a customer’s money. Lemon laws provide consumers with a means of enforcing these obligations. If a seller offers a vehicle for sale on an “as is” basis, and a buyer purchases it with knowledge of this, lemon laws do not apply because the seller has disclaimed all warranties. ## Uniform Commercial Code The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is the general source of contract law adopted in some form by all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Article 2 defines many of the implied warranties covered by lemon laws and provides guidelines for express warranties. If a seller of goods makes an “affirmation of fact or promise” about the goods to a buyer, and it “becomes part of the basis of the bargain” between the buyer and the seller, that statement becomes an express warranty that the buyer may enforce. This applies even if the seller does not use words like “warrant“ or “guarantee,” or other formal legal language. Any seller of goods is bound by the implied warranty of merchantability, which provides that goods are of reasonable quality, that they are of the same or similar quality as other goods of the same type, that they conform to any descriptions made by the seller, and that they are fit for their ordinary purpose. If a seller knows that a buyer has a specific use for certain goods, the implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose protects the buyer. Both of these implied warranties are applicable to the sale and purchase of automobiles. Express warranty = an express promise about a product made verbally or in writing, such as in a sales contract or an advertisement Implied warranty of merchantability = an implied promise that the product is fit for the purposes for which products like it are sold Implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose = an implied promise that the product is fit for the particular purpose for which the seller, on whom the consumer relies for their skill or judgment, knows that the consumer will use it ## Federal Lemon Law The [Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act](https://law.justia.com/codes/us/title-15/chapter-50/), first enacted in 1975, [governs](https://law.justia.com/cfr/title16/16cfr700_main_02.html) consumer product warranties. It applies to any consumer goods used by individuals or families with a retail price of \$15 or more. It requires any seller making an express warranty to make a full disclosure, in easy-to-understand language, of the warranty’s terms and conditions. Sellers may not limit consumers’ rights under any implied warranties, may not impose any duties on consumers other than notifying them of defects, and must attempt repair, replacement, or refund if possible. The statute does not replace or supersede any rights a consumer may have under state law. ## State Lemon Laws At the state level, lemon laws vary in four key areas: - Transaction type: Many state lemon laws only apply to new-car purchases, while others also extend to used and leased cars. - Vehicle type: State lemon laws apply to cars and trucks typically purchased for personal or household use. In some states, the laws may also extend protection to motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles (RVs), and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). - Duration of protection: State lemon laws only protect vehicles for a limited period. This is usually measured in time or miles, such as 12 months or 12,000 miles. - Seller’s obligation to repair: State lemon laws set a limit on the number of attempts a seller or manufacturer must make to repair a defect. Four attempts is generally considered reasonable. To give one example, the main [New York lemon law](https://law.justia.com/codes/new-york/gbs/article-11-a/198-a/) applies to personal or family cars, but not motorcycles, ATVs, or the non-vehicular portions of RVs. To be covered, a vehicle must have had a manufacturer’s express warranty at the time of the original purchase, it must have been purchased, transferred, or leased within the state of New York during the first two years after its initial delivery or its first 18,000 miles, whichever is sooner, and it must be registered in the state of New York. Last reviewed October 2025 Consumer Protection Law Center Contents - [Consumer Protection Law Center](https://www.justia.com/consumer/) - [Consumer Rights and the Law](https://www.justia.com/consumer/consumer-protection-law/) - [Deceptive Practices, Fraud, and Consumers' Legal Rights](https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/) - [Auto Dealer Fraud & Consumer Protection Laws](https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/auto-dealer-fraud/) - [Securities Fraud Laws](https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/broker-securities-fraud/) - [Credit Card Fraud & Consumers' Legal Rights](https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/credit-card-fraud/) - [Deceptive Healthcare Practices & Consumers' Legal Rights](https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/deceptive-health-care-practices/) - [Fake Contests and Sweepstakes & Legal Protections for Defrauded Consumers](https://www.justia.com/consumer/deceptive-practices-and-fraud/fake-contests-sweepstakes/) - 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Readable Markdown	State and federal laws protect consumers who purchase defective automobiles. These laws, known as “lemon laws” after a slang term for a defective car, enable purchasers to have the defect repaired, or to receive a replacement or a refund. A federal statute applies nationwide, but some state laws may have a broader scope or may allow more remedies for consumers. Some states’ [consumer protection](https://www.justia.com/consumer) statutes have expanded the definition of “lemon” to other goods, including animals. ## Lemon Laws in General “Lemon,” as a slang term for a defective vehicle, dates back to the early 20th century. It gained fame, so to speak, thanks to a 1962 print advertisement for the Volkswagen Beetle that used the word in a self-deprecating manner. A paper published by the economist George Akerlof in 1970, entitled “The Market for ‘Lemons,’” helped associate the word with the importance of strong consumer protection laws that discourage [auto dealers](https://www.justia.com/consumer/auto-dealer-fraud/) from withholding negative information from buyers. Lemon laws originated as laws protecting consumers from defective vehicles, but they have since expanded in many jurisdictions to cover other types of consumer goods. Lemon laws are generally based on two types of [warranties](https://www.justia.com/consumer/breach-of-warranty/). An express warranty is a statement made by a manufacturer, distributor, or seller about the quality of a product. An implied warranty is based on common law or statute. It is broader in scope than an express warranty, and it has the purpose of assuring consumers that goods meet a minimum standard of quality and suitability for their intended purpose. Manufacturers, and in some cases distributors and sellers, are obligated to correct any [defects in their products](https://www.justia.com/consumer/dangerous-or-defective-products-recalls/), to replace a defective product, or to refund a customer’s money. Lemon laws provide consumers with a means of enforcing these obligations. If a seller offers a vehicle for sale on an “as is” basis, and a buyer purchases it with knowledge of this, lemon laws do not apply because the seller has disclaimed all warranties. ## Uniform Commercial Code The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is the general source of contract law adopted in some form by all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Article 2 defines many of the implied warranties covered by lemon laws and provides guidelines for express warranties. If a seller of goods makes an “affirmation of fact or promise” about the goods to a buyer, and it “becomes part of the basis of the bargain” between the buyer and the seller, that statement becomes an express warranty that the buyer may enforce. This applies even if the seller does not use words like “warrant“ or “guarantee,” or other formal legal language. Any seller of goods is bound by the implied warranty of merchantability, which provides that goods are of reasonable quality, that they are of the same or similar quality as other goods of the same type, that they conform to any descriptions made by the seller, and that they are fit for their ordinary purpose. If a seller knows that a buyer has a specific use for certain goods, the implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose protects the buyer. Both of these implied warranties are applicable to the sale and purchase of automobiles. Express warranty = an express promise about a product made verbally or in writing, such as in a sales contract or an advertisement Implied warranty of merchantability = an implied promise that the product is fit for the purposes for which products like it are sold Implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose = an implied promise that the product is fit for the particular purpose for which the seller, on whom the consumer relies for their skill or judgment, knows that the consumer will use it ## Federal Lemon Law The [Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act](https://law.justia.com/codes/us/title-15/chapter-50/), first enacted in 1975, [governs](https://law.justia.com/cfr/title16/16cfr700_main_02.html) consumer product warranties. It applies to any consumer goods used by individuals or families with a retail price of \$15 or more. It requires any seller making an express warranty to make a full disclosure, in easy-to-understand language, of the warranty’s terms and conditions. Sellers may not limit consumers’ rights under any implied warranties, may not impose any duties on consumers other than notifying them of defects, and must attempt repair, replacement, or refund if possible. The statute does not replace or supersede any rights a consumer may have under state law. ## State Lemon Laws At the state level, lemon laws vary in four key areas: - Transaction type: Many state lemon laws only apply to new-car purchases, while others also extend to used and leased cars. - Vehicle type: State lemon laws apply to cars and trucks typically purchased for personal or household use. In some states, the laws may also extend protection to motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles (RVs), and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). - Duration of protection: State lemon laws only protect vehicles for a limited period. This is usually measured in time or miles, such as 12 months or 12,000 miles. - Seller’s obligation to repair: State lemon laws set a limit on the number of attempts a seller or manufacturer must make to repair a defect. Four attempts is generally considered reasonable. To give one example, the main [New York lemon law](https://law.justia.com/codes/new-york/gbs/article-11-a/198-a/) applies to personal or family cars, but not motorcycles, ATVs, or the non-vehicular portions of RVs. To be covered, a vehicle must have had a manufacturer’s express warranty at the time of the original purchase, it must have been purchased, transferred, or leased within the state of New York during the first two years after its initial delivery or its first 18,000 miles, whichever is sooner, and it must be registered in the state of New York. Last reviewed October 2025
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