Why Some Car Problems Qualify Under Lemon Law—And Others Don’t
Not every car issue counts under the Lemon Law. To qualify, the problem must be serious—something that affects your safety, drivability, or the car’s market value.
Minor annoyances like a broken radio or loose trim usually don’t make the cut. But if your car won’t start, keeps stalling, or has brake issues? That’s a whole different story.
Another key factor: repair attempts. The law protects you if the dealer had a fair shot at fixing the problem—but failed. If the same defect comes back even after multiple trips to the shop, that’s when Lemon Law might kick in.
⚠️ Important: Only repairs done at an authorized dealership count. Work done by your local mechanic—even if they’re great—won’t help your case.
Finally, keep every record: service receipts, repair notes, dates of each visit. These documents are proof. Without them, it’s your word against theirs.
Remember: Lemon Law isn’t just about what’s broken—it’s about how many times the dealer tried (and failed) to fix it.
What Are the Most Common Vehicle Defects in Lemon Law Cases?
Some problems show up over and over again in Lemon Law claims. Here are the most common ones:
1. Engine Stalling, Power Loss, or Failure
Engine problems are among the top reasons people file Lemon Law claims. If your engine stalls, loses power, or shuts off unexpectedly, it can put you and others at risk. These issues often happen while driving, merging, or turning—times when full engine power matters most. Causes can include faulty sensors, fuel system problems, or internal damage. If you’ve taken your car to the dealer multiple times and the engine still acts up, you may have a lemon. Document every visit, repair, and symptom. Lemon Laws often apply when a serious issue like this isn’t fixed after 3–4 repair attempts—or if the car sits in the shop too long.
2. Transmission Slipping or Jerking
Transmission issues often cause sudden jerking, slipping gears, or failure to accelerate. Some vehicles hesitate, lurch forward, or make grinding noises when shifting. These symptoms affect how safe and smooth your car feels on the road. In newer cars, many transmission problems are tied to software or faulty components, especially in dual-clutch systems. If your dealer replaces parts or reprograms the transmission but the issue returns, that’s a red flag. Repairs can cost thousands, but the bigger concern is safety and performance. When the problem keeps happening after multiple visits, Lemon Law may apply. Keep a log of the symptoms and repair attempts.
3. Brake System Failures
Brakes are your car’s first line of defense in any emergency. If your brake system fails—whether it’s soft pedals, grinding noises, uneven braking, or delayed stopping—you’re in danger. Even one failure can lead to a crash. Brake issues often involve the master cylinder, pads, rotors, or electronic sensors. If you’ve gone to the dealer for brake problems more than once and still don’t feel safe, your case might qualify under Lemon Law. Many states treat brake defects as serious enough to need only one or two failed repair attempts. Always keep repair records, and don’t ignore the warning signs.
4. Steering Problems (Pulling, Locking, or Not Responding)
Steering problems can make your car hard—or impossible—to control. If the wheel pulls to one side, feels loose, locks up, or stops responding, you may be dealing with a defect. These issues often point to problems with the power steering system, rack and pinion, or alignment. A car that doesn’t steer properly isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a safety risk. If this keeps happening, even after multiple trips to the dealer, Lemon Law may apply. Some states recognize dangerous steering failures as a qualifying defect even after just one failed fix. Keep records of repair visits and describe the symptoms clearly each time.
5. Electrical System Malfunctions (Lights, Sensors, Fuses)
Today’s vehicles rely heavily on electronics. If your dashboard lights flicker, windows won’t open, locks stop working, or warning lights stay on, these may signal electrical defects. These problems can affect visibility, safety alerts, or vehicle function altogether. Common causes include faulty wiring, bad sensors, or software errors. Dealers often “reset” the system, only for the issue to return days later. Electrical issues that keep coming back after multiple dealer visits may qualify under Lemon Law. If the problem affects how the car operates or if it drains the battery or causes sudden shutdowns, start documenting and consider speaking with an attorney.
6. Airbag or Seatbelt Defects
Airbags and seatbelts are essential safety features. If the airbag warning light stays on, airbags fail to deploy in a crash, or seatbelts don’t retract properly, you and your passengers are at risk. These defects are serious and may only need one repair attempt to qualify under Lemon Law—especially in states that prioritize safety concerns. If your dealer says it’s just a software error but the issue comes back, that’s not acceptable. These systems are meant to protect you in life-or-death moments. Save repair orders, recall notices, or any service notes that mention your airbag or seatbelt system.
7. Faulty Fuel Systems (Leaks, Fuel Pump Failures)
Fuel system problems—like leaks, pump failures, or inconsistent fuel delivery—can cause major safety risks. A fuel leak near the engine or tank could lead to a fire. Other times, a bad fuel pump causes stalling or power loss while driving. If your car smells like gas, won’t start, or dies at random, don’t ignore it. These problems often reappear even after repairs. If your vehicle has spent multiple days in the shop or had multiple attempts to fix the same fuel issue, it could qualify as a lemon. Always report these problems immediately and document everything the dealer says and does.
8. Repeated Check Engine Lights with No Resolution
The check engine light doesn’t always mean disaster—but when it comes back after every repair, something is wrong. This light can mean issues with the engine, exhaust system, sensors, or emissions. If the dealer resets it and says “you’re good,” but the light returns days later, that’s a sign of a deeper problem. Repeated trips to the dealership without a real fix can support a Lemon Law case—especially if the issue affects how the car runs or if it leads to stalling or misfires. Take a photo each time the light turns on, and always get a repair order when you visit the dealer.
How Many Repairs Before These Problems Qualify Under Lemon Law?
In most states, Lemon Law kicks in after 3 to 4 repair attempts for the same issue. That means you’ve gone back to the dealer multiple times and the problem still isn’t fixed.
If the defect is dangerous—like brake failure, airbag malfunction, or steering lock—even one failed repair might be enough.
Another way to qualify is if your car is in the shop for a total of 30 days or more for repairs, even if it’s for different problems.
The defects must have occurred within the manufacturer’s warranty period and these repairs must happen at an authorized dealership. Going to an outside mechanic won’t count.
Don’t wait until the fourth visit to start saving records. Keep everything from the first sign of trouble.
The type of problem matters, and so does the repair history. If the issue affects safety, use, or value—and the dealer can’t fix it—Lemon Law may apply. An attorney can help you confirm if your case qualifies.
What Should I Do If My Car Has One of These Problems?
Start by going back to the dealer, not your neighborhood mechanic. Under the law, the manufacturer’s dealership must get a fair chance to fix the issue.
Always request a written repair order—and double-check that it clearly states the problem you reported, along with the drop-off and pick-up dates.
If the service advisor won’t include all the details, take your own notes. Better yet, take photos or videos if the problem is visible or audible.
➡️ Proper documentation is everything. A complete paper trail can make or break your Lemon Law case. Without it, your claim may not stand up—even if the defect is serious.
These steps don’t just fix the car—they officially start your Lemon Law timeline and preserve your right to take action later.
These steps don’t just fix the car—they officially start your Lemon Law timeline and preserve your right to take action later.
Should I Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney If the Problem Persists?
Yes—especially if the same issue keeps coming back or your car has spent weeks in the shop.
Most Lemon Law attorneys offer a free consultation and only get paid if you win. They’ll review your repair records and timeline to determine if you qualify for a claim.
A good lawyer will handle all the paperwork, deal directly with the manufacturer, and often resolve the case without going to court.
⚠️ Don’t wait. There are strict deadlines for filing a claim—and missing them could cost you your rights.
What Can I Get If My Car Qualifies as a Lemon?
If your car is legally declared a lemon, you could be entitled to:
- ✅ A full refund (also called a buyback)
- 🚗 A replacement vehicle from the manufacturer
- 💰 A cash settlement to cover the loss in value
You may also get reimbursed for rental cars, towing, or out-of-pocket costs tied to the defect.
A seasoned Lemon Law attorney can help fight for the maximum payout—not just what the dealer offers.
Final Takeaway: Don’t Ignore the Signs of a Lemon
If your car keeps breaking down—even after multiple repairs—you may not have to keep driving a bad deal.
👉 Take our 2-minute Lemon Law Quiz to see if you qualify.
📘 Or download the Lemon Law Survival Blueprint for expert tips and must-know steps.You could be owed a refund, a replacement, or a cash payout.
But Lemon Law claims are time-sensitive—don’t wait to take action.