What is the Lemon Law?
The law was enacted by the Texas Legislature in 1983. A court challenge stalled enforcement of the law, but in 1985, a federal appeals court upheld its validity. In Texas, the Lemon Law is administered by the Texas Department of Transportation`s Motor Vehicle Division and its Motor Vehicle Board.
Through mediation and formal hearings allowed under the law, the Motor Vehicle Division has helped resolve many complaints. From 1988 to 1997, the division processed 12,282 complaints. In 1997, the division received 1,291 written complaints and held 182 hearings on complaints that were not resolved informally. In about half the cases heard in 1997, consumers received either replacement, repurchase or repair of their vehicles, or some other appropriate relief.
In 1991, the Legislature changed the Lemon Law to benefit more consumers. The time period for filing a complaint and the definition of a lemon were expanded, and consumers may now be reimbursed for certain incidental expenses. Now, a disclosure notice accompanying any vehicle repurchased or replaced under the Lemon Law is also required.
In 1997, the Legislature added towable recreational vehicles (TRVs) to the Lemon Law. Besides being made primarily for temporary human habitation, TRVs must:
- be titled and registered in Texas;
- be built on a single chassis;
- contain one or more life support systems, and
- be towable by another motor vehicle.
Other Texas Lemon Law FAQs
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Is there any relief available to purchasers of used cars?
The relief available to used motor vehicle buyers is limited to repairs only, if the vehicle is still under the original factory warranty. more -
What vehicles are covered under the Lemon Law?
The Lemon Law applies to new vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, allterrain vehicles motor homes and towable recreational vehicles (TRVs) that … more -
What vehicles are NOT covered under the Lemon Law?
The law does not cover used motor vehicles (including program vehicles), repossessed vehicles, nontravel trailers, boats or farm equipment. Neither does it cover … more -
How do I know if my vehicle is a lemon?
A motor vehicle may be declared a lemon if it meets all of the following conditions: The vehicle has a serious defect or abnormal condition. The defect or condition is … more -
How many chances does the dealer get to fix the vehicle?
The law presumes you have given the manufacturer or authorized dealer a reasonable number of attempts to fix the defect if you pass one of these tests. The mileage … more -
How long do I have to file a complaint?
A Lemon Law complaint must be filed within six months following the earlier of : expiration of the express warranty term; 24 months; or 24,000 miles following the date … more -
I think I have a Lemon. What doI do?
If your dealership does not seem to be able to correct the problems with your vehicle, send a letter, preferably by certified mail, to the manufacturer. The owner`s … more -
How do I file a complaint?
Your complaint must be in writing. Complaint Form (Click to View, Right Click to Save). If you want your vehicle replaced or repurchased, you must send a $35 … more -
Can my complaint be resolved quickly?
TxDOT will contact the manufacturer and dealer about your complaint. The manufacturer may send one of its experts to the dealership to help identify and fix the … more -
What is a Lemon Law hearing?
A Lemon Law hearing is your opportunity to prove to an Administrative Law Judge ( ALJ ) that your vehicle is a lemon. You must present your own testimony or that of … more
Lemon Law Sub-categories
| Lemon Law Attorney |
