Buying a new car should feel exciting. You expect a smooth ride, a quiet engine, and no trips to the repair shop, at least not anytime soon. But what if things go wrong? What if your car breaks down again and again? What if it spends more time in the shop than on the road?
That kind of trouble can wear you down fast. You start to question your purchase. You wonder if the dealer sold you a bad car. You’re not alone. Many drivers in Michigan face the same problem every year.
Here’s the good news, Michigan has a law that can help. It’s called the Lemon Law. If your new car has serious defects and the manufacturer can’t fix them, this law gives you the right to demand a refund or a replacement. You don’t have to accept a faulty vehicle.
This guide explains how the law works. You’ll learn what it covers, when it applies, and what to do if your car qualifies. Whether the problem is with your engine, brakes, or electrical system, this law may protect your rights.
What Is the Michigan Lemon Law?
Michigan’s Lemon Law protects people who buy or lease new vehicles that have serious defects. The law steps in when the same problem keeps coming back, even after multiple repair attempts. If the issue affects how the car runs, drives, or holds value, you may have legal rights.
The law applies to defects that appear within the first year after delivery or during the manufacturer’s warranty, whichever comes first. It covers new cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans bought or leased in Michigan. It also applies to out-of-state purchases if the owner lives in Michigan.
If the problem continues after a reasonable number of repairs, the manufacturer must take action. They must do one of the following:
- Fix the defect permanently
- Replace the vehicle with one of similar value
- Refund the full price, minus a small amount for use
The law does not cover small cosmetic flaws. It only applies to issues that reduce the use, safety, or value of the vehicle.
You can view the complete details on the Michigan Attorney General’s website.
Vehicles Covered Under the Law
The Michigan Lemon Law covers:
- New passenger cars
- Pickup trucks
- SUVs
- Vans used for personal or household use
It applies to vehicles bought or leased in Michigan. If you’re a Michigan resident, it can also apply to cars bought out of state.
It does not cover:
- Motor homes
- Buses
- Motorcycles
- Off-road vehicles
Used vehicles are only covered if the manufacturer’s original warranty is still active at the time of purchase.
When Does a Vehicle Qualify as a Lemon?
A defect alone doesn’t always make a car a lemon under the law. Michigan law sets specific rules to decide if your car meets the legal standard.
Your vehicle may qualify if the same problem has been repaired four or more times within the first two years of ownership. It also qualifies if it has been out of service for 30 or more days during the warranty period or within the first year after delivery.
The defect must be serious. It should affect how the car drives, its safety, or its value. Small issues like loose trim or cosmetic flaws don’t count under the law.
You must also give the manufacturer one last chance to fix the problem. This means you need to send written notice explaining the issue. Give them a chance to repair it. Always keep a copy of the letter and proof you sent it. This step is critical to make your case.
What You Can Get: Replacement or Refund
If your car qualifies as a lemon, you have the right to ask for a fair remedy. The manufacturer must offer you a replacement vehicle of similar value or a full refund, minus a small amount for use.
In addition to a refund or replacement, you may also claim expenses caused by the defect. These can include:
- Towing costs
- Rental car bills
- Other out-of-pocket repair-related expenses
The choice is yours. You can decide whether you want a refund or a replacement vehicle.
What Steps Should You Take?
To protect your rights under Michigan’s Lemon Law, follow these key steps:
1. Document everything.
Save all records of repairs, service orders, dates, and notes from the dealership. Keep a copy of all letters or emails exchanged with the manufacturer.
2. Send written notice.
Notify the manufacturer in writing about the issue and allow them one last opportunity to fix it. This step is required under the law.
3. Check your warranty.
Make sure the issue occurred during the warranty period or within one year of delivery. If the warranty expired before the repairs, you may not qualify.
4. Request a remedy.
If the defect continues after all repairs, ask the manufacturer for a refund or a new vehicle.
5. Get legal help if needed.
If the manufacturer refuses to cooperate, you may need to file for arbitration or take legal action.
Do You Need a Lemon Law Attorney?
Some lemon law claims are simple. Others can turn into a fight with the manufacturer. If your case becomes difficult, a lawyer can help.
A qualified lemon law attorney knows the process and your rights. They deal with vehicle companies often. Many offer free consultations and only charge if you win.
You can find legal help using trusted directories like Avvo or Justia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people lose their lemon law claim due to small mistakes. Avoid these common Mistakes:
- Waiting too long to act
- Failing to send written notice
- Losing or misplacing repair records
- Missing deadlines tied to the warranty
- Accepting a low settlement before learning your rights
Also, don’t trust verbal promises. Get everything in writing. Keep copies of every repair invoice and each message you send or receive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Michigan Lemon Law cover used cars?
Only if the manufacturer’s original warranty is still active at the time of purchase.
Can I still qualify if repairs started outside Michigan?
Yes, if you are a Michigan resident and the vehicle is covered under warranty.
Do I have to go to court?
Not always. Some cases resolve through arbitration or direct negotiation.
Can I use the law for minor problems?
No. The issue must affect the use, value, or safety of the vehicle.
What if the car dealer refuses to help?
Your rights are against the manufacturer, not the dealer. Contact the manufacturer directly.
Laws about cars go beyond defects. People often wonder things like Is it illegal to drive barefoot in Texas? Learn how different laws apply across states.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a faulty car can wear you down fast. You expected reliability, but instead, you face repeated repairs, lost time, and constant stress. Michigan’s Lemon Law exists to stop this cycle. It gives you clear rights and real power to demand a fix.
You don’t have to accept a vehicle that doesn’t work the way it should. If your car qualifies as a lemon, the law supports you. But you must act. Save every receipt, track all repairs, and keep copies of your letters or emails to the manufacturer. These records help build your case.
Send written notice. Give the manufacturer a final chance to fix the problem. If they fail, request a replacement or a full refund. Stay firm and don’t settle for less than you deserve.
A fair outcome may be within reach. The law is on your side, but it only works if you use it. Take the first step now and protect your investment before the problem gets worse.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not offer legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney in Michigan to discuss your specific situation.