Florida Lemon Law FAQ

If you have just purchased a car in the State of Florida and are having some issues with it then you are probably wondering about the Florida Lemon Law and whether or not it applies to your vehicle.

Listed below are a few Florida Lemon Law Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

Q: What kinds of vehicles does the Florida Lemon Law apply to?

A: The Florida Lemon Law applies to NEW or demonstrator motor vehicles which are sold or leased in the State of Florida.

Q: What kinds of vehicles does the Florida Lemon Law NOT apply to?

A: Used cars, vehicles that run only on tracks, off-road vehicles, trucks over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, motorcycles, mopeds or the living facilities of recreational vehicles.

Q: What might I be entitled to if one of the Lemon Laws applies to my vehicle?

A: You might be entitled to: a cash settlement, a partial or total refund of the original purchase price, or a new or replacement vehicle. Reimbursement options for vehicles dubbed 'lemons' are based on a variety of factors that vary in each case.

Q: Should I get a lawyer?

A: A experienced attorney that has dealt with or deals primarily with Lemon Laws cases will possess valuable knowledge and insights that could prove very beneficial to your case. Engaging the services of a lemon law attorney can also help in speeding up the required filing processes.

Q: How much will I have to pay this attorney?

A: Lemon Laws contain a fee-shifting provision that shift all attorney fees to the vehicle manufacturer if you win or settle the case. This means you will not have to spend money out of pocket for consulting an attorney.

Q: In how bad a condition does my car have to be in before it's considered a 'lemon'?

A: At minimum the Florida Lemon Law requires that the vehicle has to have been: Back to the service agent for repair of the same recurring problem at least three times or in and out of the authorized repair shop for repair of one or more different problems for 15 or more cumulative days.

Q: How long do I have to report a 'lemon'?

A: Any defects must be first reported to the manufacturer or it authorized service agent (usually, this is the dealer) during the "Lemon Law Rights Period," which is the first 24 months after the date of delivery of the motor vehicle to the consumer.

Q: What kinds of records or receipts will I need for the Florida Lemon Law process?

A: You should keep records of ALL repairs and maintenance. A written repair order should be obtained from the dealer for each and every examination or repair under the warranty. You'll want to keep all receipts or invoices for payment of expenses related to the purchase/lease of the vehicle and to any repair as well.

To find out more about Florida Lemon Laws as well as how to get the whole process started you can visit the official website of the Attorney General of Florida.