Florida lemon law new car

Florida's Lemon Law, also known as the "Florida New Motor Vehicle Warranties Act," is designed to protect consumers who purchase new vehicles that have defects or malfunctions that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. Here are the key provisions of Florida's Lemon Law:

What is a Lemon?

A lemon is a new motor vehicle that has a defect or malfunction that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety. The defect must be covered by the manufacturer's warranty and must have been reported to the manufacturer or dealer within the warranty period.

Warranty Period

The warranty period for a new motor vehicle in Florida is 24 months or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Number of Repair Attempts

The manufacturer or dealer must be given a reasonable number of opportunities to repair the defect or malfunction. The law does not specify a specific number of attempts, but it does require that the manufacturer or dealer be given a "reasonable" number of chances to fix the problem.

What Constitutes a Lemon?

A vehicle is considered a lemon if it has a defect or malfunction that:

  1. Substantially impairs its use, value, or safety.
  2. Has been reported to the manufacturer or dealer within the warranty period.
  3. Has been repaired at least four times for the same defect or malfunction.
  4. Has been out of service for at least 30 days due to repairs.

What Can You Do If You Have a Lemon?

If you believe you have a lemon, you can:

  1. Contact the manufacturer or dealer to report the defect or malfunction.
  2. Request a repair or replacement of the vehicle.
  3. File a complaint with the Florida Attorney General's Office.
  4. Sue the manufacturer or dealer in court.

What Are Your Rights Under the Lemon Law?

If your vehicle is deemed a lemon, you have the right to:

  1. A full refund of the purchase price of the vehicle.
  2. A replacement vehicle that is free from defects or malfunctions.
  3. Compensation for any related expenses, such as towing and rental car fees.

What Are the Time Limits for Filing a Lemon Law Claim?

You must file a lemon law claim within the warranty period or within four years from the date of delivery of the vehicle, whichever is earlier.

What Are the Penalties for Violating the Lemon Law?

Manufacturers and dealers who violate the Lemon Law can be subject to penalties, including:

  1. Civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day.
  2. Criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
  3. Injunctions to stop the violation.

It's important to note that the Lemon Law only applies to new motor vehicles, not used vehicles. Additionally, the law does not cover vehicles that have been modified or altered from their original manufacturer's specifications. If you believe you have a lemon, it's a good idea to consult with an attorney who is familiar with Florida's Lemon Law to discuss your rights and options.