You Filed a Lemon Law Claim—Now What?
You paid top dollar for a new car that was supposed to make life easier—not strand you at the side of the road or send you back to the dealership every few weeks. If you’ve had the same issue “fixed” multiple times and it’s still not resolved, it’s not just frustrating—it’s exhausting.
That’s why filing a Lemon Law claim was the right move. It’s not about being difficult—it’s about holding the manufacturer accountable when a new car doesn’t perform the way it should.
Now comes the next phase. What actually happens after you file? Will the dealer reach out? Will you need to hire a lawyer? And how long will this whole process take?
This article walks through what typically happens after a Lemon Law claim is submitted—step by step—so you can understand the process and know what to expect next.
Does My Car Really Qualify as a Lemon?
Under federal law, a car is generally considered a lemon if it has a substantial defect that the manufacturer or authorized dealer can’t fix after a reasonable number of attempts. What qualifies as “substantial”? Think serious problems like engine failure, electrical malfunctions, transmission breakdowns, or persistent braking issues—not things like a loose knob or peeling trim.
In most states, the law kicks in after three or more repair attempts for the same issue, or if the car has been out of service for 30 or more days in total. Some states are stricter, some more lenient—so it’s worth checking your local rules.
Also important: the vehicle’s issues must impact its use, safety, or value. That means even tech glitches—like faulty touchscreens, backup cameras, or driver-assist systems—may qualify if they create real safety risks or make the car unreliable.
Bottom line? If your car is still under warranty and keeps having the same unresolved issue, you may have a valid Lemon Law claim.
What Happens Right After I File a Lemon Law Claim?
Once your Lemon Law claim is submitted—either directly to the manufacturer or through a lawyer or state program—the process begins behind the scenes.
First, the manufacturer (or in some states, a state arbitration board) will open a case file and start reviewing your repair history. They’ll likely request documentation: repair orders, warranty info, and a written timeline of when the problem started and how many times it’s occurred.
This is when the negotiation phase begins. You won’t automatically be dragged into court. In fact, most claims are handled through phone calls, paperwork, and back-and-forth emails. The manufacturer may offer a refund, a replacement vehicle, or a cash settlement, depending on your situation.
Here’s the key: Staying organized gives you leverage. The more clearly you can show your repair history and communication attempts, the stronger your case becomes.
If you haven’t already, start putting everything in one folder—physical or digital. It can make all the difference in how quickly your claim gets resolved.
Why Your Paper Trail Is the Most Powerful Tool in Your Case
The single most important asset in your Lemon Law claim? Your records. Your repair documents tell the story of what went wrong—and how many times it happened.
Here’s what you should have in your file:
- All repair orders, including dates and mileage
- Descriptions of the exact problem you reported
- Any photos or videos that show the issue
- Notes you took about symptoms, service visits, or conversations with the dealer
Even handwritten logs with mileage counts and appointment dates can help fill in the gaps.
Pro tip: Ask your service advisor to be specific when writing up the repair order. It should reflect the real problem—not vague phrases like “customer states concern.”
There’s an old saying that applies here:
“If it’s not in writing, it’s as if it never happened.”
A complete paper trail gives your case structure and credibility—and it often speeds up negotiations.
Do I Need a Lemon Law Lawyer to Win?
You’re allowed to file a Lemon Law claim on your own—but going it alone isn’t always the smartest move.
Most Lemon Law attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they don’t charge you upfront. They only get paid if your case wins or settles. That makes legal help accessible, even if you’re retired or on a fixed income.
A good lawyer does more than just file forms. They:
- Handle back-and-forth with the manufacturer
- Meet deadlines and legal requirements
- Push back if you’re lowballed or ignored
And no—hiring a lawyer doesn’t mean you’re going to court. In fact, most claims settle out of court through negotiation or arbitration. But having a lawyer on your side shows the manufacturer you’re serious and prepared.
If your goal is to resolve things fairly, efficiently, and without stress, an experienced Lemon Law attorney is often well worth it.
What Kind of Outcome Can I Expect—and Will I Have to Go to Court?
Once your Lemon Law claim is reviewed, the outcome usually falls into one of a few common resolutions:
- A buyback (refund, minus a mileage offset)
- A replacement vehicle of similar value
- A cash settlement for the drop in the car’s value
- Reimbursement for related costs—towing, rental cars, and diagnostic fees
Most claims are settled without a courtroom. In fact, many are resolved through negotiation or arbitration, especially when the paperwork is clear and expectations are reasonable.
You may never need to attend a hearing—but if you do, your lawyer will handle the process and guide you through it.
This isn’t about confrontation. It’s about holding the manufacturer accountable to the warranty they promised. If your vehicle doesn’t perform like it should, the law provides a structured, reasonable path to make things right—and most manufacturers are prepared to resolve valid claims without a fight.
Next Steps
Filing a Lemon Law claim isn’t a hassle—it’s a legal remedy designed for everyday drivers who’ve been stuck with a faulty vehicle through no fault of their own.
You followed the maintenance schedule. You brought the car in for repairs. You gave the dealer multiple chances to fix it. Now it’s time for the manufacturer to do their part.
If you haven’t already, take these next steps:
- Gather your paperwork—repair orders, notes, and service dates
- Organize your timeline so it’s easy to follow
- Speak with a Lemon Law attorney to review your case (many offer free consults)
You’ve invested in a vehicle that should work properly. If it hasn’t, you don’t have to settle for less. There’s a path forward—and you’re already on it.