When you buy a new vehicle, you look forward to having reliable, comfortable transportation. But when the vehicle you buy regularly and unexpectedly lets you down, where can you turn? What are your options?
Texas’s “lemon law” provides relief for motorists who have purchased or leased a new motor vehicle. The law applies if the vehicle develops a condition or defect that “substantially impairs” the use, safety, or market value of the vehicle.
Before filing for relief under the Texas Lemon Law, you will have to give the manufacturer a “reasonable opportunity” to fix the defects involved. Depending on the type and severity of the problem, the number of attempts the manufacturer is allowed can vary. In some cases, the defect may be the subject of a recall, so it’s important to speak to an experienced Texas lemon law attorney who can help you pursue all available avenues of relief.
Texas’s lemon law covers all cars, trucks, motorcycles, motor homes, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Demonstrator vehicles are covered if they develop a problem that is covered by the manufacturer’s written warranty. A travel trailer may also be covered if it is titled and registered in the state of Texas.
Lemon law protections may cover a used vehicle, but in different ways. For instance, Texas has laws regarding warranties that may apply if your used vehicle is covered by the manufacturer’s original warranty, or if you reported the problem while it was still under warranty but the manufacturer’s attempts to fix it have proven unworkable. Talk to your lawyer if you’re having problems with a used vehicle.
