Boston, MA — Buying a new or used car is a major investment, but for some Massachusetts residents, that purchase can quickly turn into a frustrating experience if the vehicle turns out to be defective. Fortunately, the Massachusetts Lemon Law offers critical protections to help consumers facing such situations.
What Is the Lemon Law?
Massachusetts’ Lemon Law provides legal recourse for consumers who purchase or lease new or certain used vehicles that have substantial defects impairing safety, use, or market value. If the vehicle cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, the law may entitle the buyer to a replacement or refund.
Who Is Covered?
The law covers:
- New Cars: Purchased or leased for personal, family, or household use.
- Used Cars: Purchased from a Massachusetts dealer or private party for personal use, provided the vehicle is sold with less than 125,000 miles on the odometer at the time of sale.
Motorcycles, off-road vehicles, and vehicles primarily used for business purposes are generally excluded from coverage.
How the Law Works for New Cars
New car buyers are protected for one year or 15,000 miles, whichever comes first. If a defect significantly impairs the vehicle’s use, safety, or market value—and the manufacturer or dealer cannot fix it after a reasonable number of repair attempts—the buyer may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or refund.
The law also requires manufacturers to cover towing and rental car expenses related to covered defects.
Lemon Law for Used Cars
For used vehicles, the Lemon Law applies for the earlier of:
- 90 days from the date of purchase, or
- 3,750 miles driven after purchase.
If the vehicle fails to pass inspection within 7 days of sale or develops a substantial defect covered under the law, the buyer may be entitled to repairs, replacement, or refund, provided certain conditions are met.
Importantly, private sales are also subject to the Lemon Law if the seller misrepresents the vehicle’s condition or fails to disclose known defects.
What Qualifies as a “Lemon”?
Not every issue qualifies. The defects must:
- Substantially impair the vehicle’s use, safety, or market value,
- Occur within the protected timeframe or mileage limit, and
- Persist despite a reasonable number of repair attempts.
Cosmetic issues or minor inconveniences typically do not meet the legal threshold.
How to File a Lemon Law Claim
If repair attempts fail to resolve the defect, consumers should:
- Notify the manufacturer in writing.
- Request a final repair opportunity.
- If unresolved, pursue arbitration through the state’s Lemon Law Arbitration Program.
Consumers may also seek legal action if arbitration fails or is unavailable.
Protecting Yourself as a Buyer
Experts recommend taking the following steps when purchasing a vehicle:
- Carefully inspect the car and request a professional evaluation.
- Keep detailed records of all repairs and communications.
- Act promptly if defects arise, as time limits apply.
Massachusetts’ Lemon Law offers vital protections for car buyers, but understanding your rights and acting swiftly is key. With proper documentation and knowledge of the law, consumers can avoid being stuck with a faulty vehicle and ensure they get what they paid for.
