Few things are more frustrating than buying a new car, only to discover it has serious defects. Florida law recognizes this problem and offers strong protections through the Florida Lemon Law (officially called the Florida Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act). This law helps consumers get refunds or replacements for defective vehicles that cannot be repaired, even after repeated attempts.
If you’ve purchased a vehicle that keeps breaking down, here’s what you need to know about how the Florida Lemon Law works.
What Qualifies as a “Lemon” in Florida?
Not every defective car qualifies as a lemon. Florida Lemon Law typically applies when:
- The vehicle is new and purchased or leased in Florida.
- The car has a serious defect that substantially impairs its use, safety, or value.
- The manufacturer or dealer has had a reasonable number of repair attempts and the issue still isn’t fixed.
In most cases, “reasonable” means three or more unsuccessful repair attempts or the vehicle being out of service for 15 or more days within the first 24 months of purchase.
How the Florida Lemon Law Process Works
- Notify the Manufacturer – Give the manufacturer written notice of the defect and request a final repair attempt.
- Arbitration Program – If the defect isn’t fixed, you can file for arbitration through the Florida New Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board.
- Resolution – If successful, the manufacturer must either refund your purchase price or replace the vehicle.
Common Issues Covered
Florida Lemon Law most often applies to:
- Transmission problems.
- Major engine defects.
- Electrical system failures.
- Safety issues like brake or steering defects.
When to Contact a Lawyer
While the Lemon Law provides consumer protection, the process can be confusing. Manufacturers often fight claims, and deadlines are strict. An experienced attorney can help you:
- File a proper Lemon Law claim.
- Represent you in arbitration.
- Explore other remedies if your case falls outside Lemon Law coverage (such as warranty or fraud claims).
Conclusion
If your new car keeps breaking down, don’t ignore the problem. The Florida Lemon Law exists to protect consumers from being stuck with unsafe or unreliable vehicles. Acting quickly and understanding your rights can mean the difference between a constant headache and a fair resolution.
📞 If you believe you may have a Lemon Law case, contact Lipinski Civil Law today to review your options.