The Magnuson Moss Warranty Act: A hidden gem most consumers do not know about
Updated September of 2020
Certainly, we have all heard of the Lemon Law at one time or another. Every State (including lemon laws in Texas) has one and they are designed to protect car owners when their ride turns sour. But, what if you fall outside the lemon law provisions? Perhaps, you live in Pennsylvania, and your problem occurred at 13,000 miles, rather than 12,000? Or you have a used car with a manufacturers warranty and the check engine light just will not go off? Is the manufacturer off the hook? Is the consumer out of luck? The answer is no.
There’s a little known Federal law called the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, that’s not discussed by car dealerships when you purchase your car. It’s a statute that is not heavily promoted or publicized but it applies to cars, or any products that cost over $25 and are covered by a manufacturers warranty. What is says is that if you find that you have to get your car repaired three or more times for the same thing, it means that the warranty has not proven to be efficient or very effective.
And for that reason, you could be entitled to monies that reflect the diminished value of the car as a result of the problem. So, that darn window motor that’s been replaced, the air conditioner that hasn’t been blowing cool air, the water leak in the trunk that was finally fixed after four tries, or that nav system that’s gone through quite a few upgrades could mean thousands in your pocket PLUS:
- You get to keep your car
- Your warranty remains completely in effect and they still have to fix your car.
- Your car is not branded in any way (like the lemon law)
- You do not disclose that you received this money when selling or trading your car.
- Like the Lemon Law, the Magnuson Moss provides a provision which entitles consumers to completely free legal help, so they are on equal footing with the manufacturers. And unlike the lemon law, this law can apply to used cars.
You read this right–This is free money and it applies to any car or truck which is still under an original or extended manufacturers warranty. We specialize in helping consumers in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania as well as many other states around the country. If you think you may be entitled to money under the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, click here and we will be glad to contact you to further discuss your claim.
March 1st, 2010 at 9:11 am
I have a 5th wheel rv that I purchased new in June 2009. I have had multiple problems with this rv and have it it in the repair shop multilpe times for repairs. New proplems continue to pop up. I pucrchased this rv in NY and I understand there is no lemon law on non motorized problems such heat,ac and plumbling. Can I return this RV for a new one or get money refunded?
March 23rd, 2010 at 3:21 am
We have an 08′ Silverado, and at 16000 miles the accelerator pedal gave out and an “engine power reduced” light came on. The car would gimp around at no more than about 5-10 mph until it was serviced.
It’s in the shop for the 7th time at less than 40xxx miles, and we just don’t know what to do. We’re in contact with the BBB, but GM has flat out told us they will not work with us, despite failing to remedy the problem repeatedly. The 4th occurrence was 2000 miles outside of lemon law, so according to them we have no legal recourse at this point but to trade it in or buy a new one (And go through this again? Fat chance!)
We’ve lost all faith in this vehicle. We used to enjoy frequent camping and rock-climbing trips, but have had to completely abandon our activities for fear the truck will leave us stranded in a dangerous situation. It’s had this issue several times on the freeway, and I can’t help but think it’s a ticking time bomb.
Even though it’s outside of Arizona Lemon Law, could this act possibly get GM to buy it back? I’m scared to death of this vehicle. Buying our first new car shouldn’t have been like this… What can I do?
March 23rd, 2010 at 3:24 am
We have an 08′ Silverado, and at 16000 miles the accelerator pedal gave out and an “engine power reduced” light came on. The car would gimp around at no more than about 5-10 mph until it was serviced.
It’s in the shop for the 7th time at less than 40xxx miles, and we just don’t know what to do. We’re in contact with the BBB, but GM has flat out told us they will not work with us, despite failing to remedy the problem repeatedly. The 4th occurrence was 2000 miles outside of lemon law, so according to them we have no legal recourse at this point but to trade it in or buy a new one (And go through this again? Fat chance!)
We’ve lost all faith in this vehicle. We used to enjoy frequent camping and rock-climbing trips, but have had to completely abandon our activities for fear the truck will leave us stranded in a dangerous situation. It’s had this issue several times on the freeway, and I can’t help but think it’s a ticking time bomb.
Even though it’s outside of Arizona Lemon Law, could this act possibly get GM to buy it back? I’m scared to death of this vehicle. Buying our first new car shouldn’t have been like this… What can I do?
December 7th, 2011 at 11:06 am
I am wondering about whether I’m covered….
-I bought a 2005 Volvo SUV with 98,000 miles from a used car dealership in VA (5 hours from my home in NC–not volvo dealer) in May.I put $4,000 down and financed the rest through a finance company owned by the dealership’s owenr.I was given a 50/50 parts and labor warranty for 1 year.
– I spent such a long time choosing the “sensible” vehicle that would give me the size that I needed for work, had a reputation of a vehicle that would last, but was in my budget($14,500.) -Three days of driving and the transmission gave out.
-The dealership picked up the vehicle and had it towed back to VA.
-After two corporate Volvo dealerships said the transmission had to be replaced, the dealership said they could not find anything wrong with the car at all. Their customer service associate differed on her acceptance of issue with vehicle and their offers to fix/trade for a different vehicle every time I called. They refused to refund my downpayment, refused to fix vehicle as a “comsumer” issue rather than warranty issue due to the immediacy of the problem. Finally, after 5 1/2 months, we came to an agreement that we would each pay 50% of putting a used transmission into the vehicle. I wasn’t happy with this but agreed b/c they would agree to nothing else and I had been without a vehicle for 6 months which was hindering my income and everything in my life.
-Finally, on November 10th, I travelled back to pick the car up, made the third payment on the vehicle, paid my portion of the repair bill, and drove back to NC.
-On November 24th the car sounded kind of funny as I was pulling up to my in-laws’ home three hours away. I was worried but wasn’t going to be driving it for a few days and daughter and I were both sick so left it alone and figured I would see how it sounded on the 27th when we were due to drive home and thought I may have to take it to the Volvo dealership.
-11/27 drove the vehicle two miles and the engine made a loud noise and turned off completely on the highway. I was able to pull over and called AAA. They towed car to Cary Volvo where the service people determined that the engine was “unrepairable” due to a “catastrophic internal event” and gave me the estimate of $18,000. if I did want to repair the vehicle. They told me that there is one used compatible engine in the country and if I did go that route the part alone was $6,000. so I was probably looking in the neighborhood of $10,000. to fix with unwarranted used engine.
-12/6 the selling dealership picked up the vehicle from Volvo of Cary, NC and had it towed back to VA to inspect for themselves.
—-Including downpayment, payments, and repairs, I have spent $7540.06 to date on this vehicle(cash out of pocket) and am still obligated to the lein of approx $10,000.. The vehicle is not drivable and I have only had use of it for 17 days in total since the May 18th date of purchase.
Not only can I not afford to have spent this money, but the loss of the use of it has affected my self-produced income greatly and caused a lot of distress to myself and my family.
I am still without a vehicle, without cash, and looking at having to come out of pocket close to/approx $5,000. if the dealership decides they want to honor the 50/50 warranty and fix it. I don’t have the money to do that.
I even offered to them that I would just be “out” the transmission repair $ and all of the travel and diagnostic $ if they would simply attribute my downpayment of $4,000. to another one of their vehicles. They said I would have to “meet in the midddle” somewhere and that there was no way they’d do that. That WAS my idea of meeting in the middle—-what I want is my $ back and to walk away from this nightmare with less $ but the ability to move on and buy another car and live/work the way I need.
This just does not seem right….there has to be some kind of recourse?!?!?! (sorry for the book!!)
December 12th, 2011 at 5:34 pm
Sadly, in order for us to help, you MUST have a manufacturers warranty.
February 9th, 2012 at 6:12 pm
I own a 2009 Toyota Corolla, have had the vehicle for a year and a half and have had to replace the water pump, alternator and battery with in the last five months, called Toyota to ask if i was covered under my warranty and i was told no, so i had to go get car fixed on my own and now my car is sitting in the drive way cause after we installed new battery car will not go into gear and Toyota just replied bring it in and we can fix it at my expense, car wont move to get it there. i do have a warranty and they said i am not covered for the three parts i had to replace, I thought Toyota’s ran forever????? My god it’s a 2009 they sold me a lemon
March 1st, 2012 at 10:43 pm
We right now are leasing a 2008 mazda 3 and when we got it in aug of 2011 it is used and only had 31,000 miles on it and still under factory warrenty with bumper to bumper and drive trainee warrenty. About 3 weeks after we got it the engine light came on and the dealer where we got it couldnt find the problem so they just cleared the codes and returned the vehicle. Two weeks after that the engine light had come on again mind you both times the vehicle had to be towed. This time they sent it to a mazda dealer and found it to be an O2 sensor. It was fixed at this point. Now today on March 1st 2012 it stalled on me as I was driving it got it to start back up got to a gas station turned the vehicle off came out and went to start it and I had nothing. The vehicle would not start or crank over. I had no power in anything except the radio, cigarette lighter and the heater, the rest of the vehicle had nothing. Had it towed to the dealership where I got it and they told me that it is something electrical. Am I entitled to anything being that it is still under factory warrenty for the drive trainee?
March 6th, 2012 at 4:59 pm
If your repair invoices illustrate three repair visits for the same problem, you may have a claim. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/ for more information.
June 28th, 2012 at 8:25 pm
I bought a 2009 Saturn outlook new on oct 9, 2008. During the summer of 2010, I took the car into the dealership b/c the AC wasn’t working. They “fixed it”. However, the next summer of 2011, I took it in TWICE for the same problem. After the 2nd time in 2011, I was concerned that the problem really wasn’t fixed & My warranty was due to end in Nov 2011. The dealership ensured me that if I had trouble again, they would cover it, even outside of the warranty time. Sure enough, I have had my car in THREE times already this summer. I thought the issue was finally resolved, but 3 weeks later, AC isn’t working again. I’ve now taken the car a total of 6 times without a remedy. Do I have a claim under the Magnuson moss act?
July 2nd, 2012 at 3:49 pm
You may have a claim. Call us at 1 800 LEMON LAW to discuss your situation.
April 13th, 2014 at 4:10 pm
We purchased a 2014 motorhome on 10/31/2014. When we arrived home with it we noticed the sofa moved to the middle of the coach, it was not bolted down. We also had problems driving home with the refrigerator doors swinging wildly because they would not properly lock (we used duct tape to get home). At that point of getting home the first day we called the dealer. They ordered us new refrigerator door handles which took 22 days to arrive, they then told me to come pick up the handles and install them myself (I did, these handles did not work either). The dealer on 10/31/2014 told us to make an appointment to come in for the sofa (aside from needed to be secured to the floor the sofa had operational issues that was never fixed), they waited until 1/21/2014 to get us in to fix these safety issues, during the first three months of ownership we could not use the motor home. We took the motorhome in to the dealer on 1/21/2014, the dealer had the motorhome for 60 days they were still unable to fix the sofa by bolting it down in place. They claim to have fixed the refrigerator doors but now two will not open and one will not lock into place. There was numerous other issues which they failed to repair as well. We contacted Fleetwood and they suggested we drive the motor home to their repair facility in Oregon, which we are in the process of doing. We picked up the motorhome from the dealer on 3/28/2014, that day driving home the check engine light came on. I emailed the dealer and they replied by email that there is nothing they can do for the check engine light. We are now headed to the Fleetwood’s factory service center to try to get all of these issues resolved. During the first six months of ownership we have only been able to use the motorhome for the two weeks it took us to get from Spokane to Oregon (stopped to see family for a week but could not use motorhome due to water leaks). We like the motorhome but we really are frustrated. With a one year warranty about 75% of that time we were out of service. Do we have any options?
May 20th, 2014 at 12:12 pm
I am wondering if this would be helpful for me…. I bought an used 2005 ford explorer which I drove for 5 months and the transmission went I paid extra money to the dealership for a limited warranty which covers the transmission…they have had my car since February I have had it back twice for two to three days before the transmission went again they “rebuilt” the transmission the first time and it wouldn’t even move after having it back for two days they picked it up and after a month returned it again only long enough for us to have a few days before the transmission went again now its been there for over a month and they keep telling us that a new code comes up and something needs to be replaced a few days later they call back saying the same thing we had to pay a $195 deductible the first time I am getting frustrated and need to know what to do
May 22nd, 2014 at 11:39 am
@Michelle: Being that this car is outside of the manufacturers warranty, this law would not apply. You will need to contact your state attorney geeneral’s office and look into used car statutes.
July 7th, 2014 at 8:22 pm
bought a 2010 Kia Soul one month ago and have had to take it to the shop 4 times since then for the tire loosing air. they did find a tack in the tire on the third visit and replaced the tire. The valve sensor was replaced on the first visit. The forth visit they can find nothing wrong and said it is the air temperature. I checked the tire and it was down to 25 lbs not the 32 that was put in it. All the other tires checked out fine. They have not been charging me for the repairs, but don’t want to take it on a trip to AZ. with it fully packed and have problems with the tire. What recourse, if any can I take. It is still under warranty.
July 17th, 2014 at 1:26 pm
I purchases a 2012 Ford Fiesta at the end of December 2014. I have had the car for just over 6 months and have nothing but issues with the transmission. It keeps shuttering. It has been brought to a certified FORD dealer over 5 times for this same issue. Now, the check engine light is on as well. I have been reading that there are thousands of people who are having the same issues with their fords and their transmissions. I am still under manufacturer warranty and purchased an extended warranty as well. What do I do?!?! It is currently in the shop now (and has been for over a week and half) for the 6th or so time. I NEED HELP.
July 23rd, 2014 at 4:23 pm
@Valerie: You certainly have a claim. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html to fill out our Get Rid of Your Lemon form. If we cannot help, we will point you in the direction of someone who can.
August 31st, 2014 at 7:14 pm
I bought a used 2014 escape back around Mar 2014. in July it was running rough & shut down when driving. It went in to the service dept. at the Ford dealership. (it has a manufacturers warranty) less than a week later the same problem accured and it went back to the dealership. This was around July 27th. today is Aug 31st. my car is still in the shop at the same ford dealership. They have as of this day still not fixed my car. I am making payments on it – but have not had it back for over a month. what can I do?
September 9th, 2014 at 12:49 pm
@Darlene: Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a lemon law lawyer in your state to discuss your rights.
September 29th, 2014 at 9:06 am
Hello,
My name is Brenda and I need some advice please. I bought a used car last September, and have had nothing but problems with it. This car is practically new it doesn’t even have 25,000 miles on it. When I bought it I kept questioning to myself why is this car still here if it has such low miles on it but before the winter time I needed a new car so I decided to get it. Well since I bought the car the sales person who sold me the car isn’t even there anymore. They told me it had brand new tires on it and that this car has never been in a accident ect. After a couple days I began to notice scratches and dents I never noticed before that they must of covered up. So in the very beginning of June I went to get my car inspected and the mechanic came out and told me that my car is not drive-able that my two front tires were going to blow out on me any minute and that my alignment was awful! So I had to buy two front tires and an alignment and they said my tie-rods were bad they would need to be replaced. So I was very frustrated with the whole situation that I tried to call the dealer I bought the car from and each and every time I was transferred to the manager I could never get through I had to leave a voice mail. I had left at least 4 messages with my name and number and never received any calls back so I just went in and demanded to speak with the manager and I explained to him what was going on and he said I doubt you need tie-rods, just the way he was talking to me was rude. I had explained to him that if the tires were brand new why would my tires be worn so bad that they would blow out on me and why would my alignment be so off I didn’t even drive a mile away for work. So they looked at the car for me and told me that I didn’t need tie-rods I just needed tires and alignment. So they did that for me over $300 later and not even a month later my alignment was bad again so I went in again and said this shouldn’t be happening so they took it in to see what was going on and they said they had to re-tweak some things and I also explained to them that my horn would sometimes work but most times wouldn’t work since the day I bought it and their service manager said well that’s a lot of work we would have to take your horn apart and your air bag ect it would take awhile and be a lot of work! I looked at him and said isn’t that your job? This is a safety problem. I was so annoyed with them and their service I’ve been taking it to gateway KIA and they have been a big help and fitting me in but I feel like I live there. I’m always there for service because they cant seem to figure out how to fix my car. I have to be there at least once a week if not more. I just had my car there this Friday 9/26/2014 for my check engine light once again this is the 4th time for the check engine light and they said its throwing a lean code and that they don’t know how to fix it that they just cleared the code so my light would go off and they put a claim through to kia hotline and are waiting to hear back from them. Meanwhile as I’m here waiting for them to call me back on Friday night I was on my way home and went to turn right and my steering wheel just locked up and my whole car shut down on me on a busy highway where I almost got hit. In a 5 minute drive home the car had done this three times on me. I went in to them on Saturday morning and told them and they finally gave me a loaner car and said hopefully they hear back from the hotline on Monday (today). I don’t know what to do anymore the main dealer ship I had bought this car from has me in such a hole because they screwed me over with the price that I cant even trade this car in and get rid of it! I am so thankful I bought an extended warranty on this car that I pay extra monthly for because without that I would be even further in the hole. Is there anything I can do? I need help!
Thank you!
October 1st, 2014 at 1:31 pm
Brenda: Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and fill out the form so we can review your case in more detail.
February 10th, 2015 at 10:13 pm
We purchased a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan with 22,673 miles on 3/24/2011 from a Chrysler dealership. The van was a Chrysler certified pre-owned vehicle which came with a 6 year/ 80,000 mile powertrain warranty and we also opted for their Life Time added care plus extended warranty. (as implied it’s for as long as we own the vehicle). The first occurrence was on 12/9/2011 (not even 9 months from date of purchase) and the van was taken in for a warning light and for burning through approximately 4 quarts of oil between oil changes! After 6 days at the dealership we hoped the problem was fixed. The next occurrence was on 1/17/2013. You guessed it we returned the van a warning light and for leaking large amounts of oil. Again after another 6 days at the dealership it was “fixed”. The 3rd occurrence was on 7/6/2013 and the van was again returned to the dealership for a warning light and being 2 quarts low on oil 400 miles short of a 3,000 mile oil change! This time after 12 days and the entire lower engine block being replaced, (Apparently the oil rings burned out with only 58,000 miles on the van!) we hoped that the problems with our “Certified Pre-Owned” van were finally over. However, today we are yet again preparing to send the van back to the dealership for a fluid leak which is causing smoke to come from the engine compartment! We have a disabled son and purchased this van to transport him! This has been a nightmare transaction and the dealership is very difficult to convince that we need a loaner van so that we can get our son to school and his many doctor appointments! Wish us luck with getting the loaner van tomorrow as he has an appointment the day after tomorrow an hour away from home!
March 26th, 2015 at 11:25 am
I bought a used Jeep in real nice condition. Problem is I find there was three manufacturer recalls. Two on the air bag system and one for a potential gas tank problem in event of rear end collision. Unaware of that one the night I bought the Jeep I sopped on the way home and bought a Reese Hitch. I installed it the next dday. That is the “fix” for the recall. However on researching the vin for my Jeep in light of the most recent recall, I found that there were two previous recalls on this vehicle that were never repaired. So now there are three recalls on the air bag system. The air bag light on the dash now stays on indicating a problem. What are my legal options?
March 28th, 2015 at 3:51 am
I purchase a Chrysler TOWN AND COUNTRY 20011 IN 2012 IN DEC.. To begin with The car I requested was to be with a extra heavy duty tow package hd cooling system. The salesman lied to me until it was pd. In cash for 34,000.I am disabled since the 1980. When I took a cab to QUIRK AUTO , THE SALESMAN SAID MY CAR WAS SOLD BY MISTAKE , 2011 AND CAN’ T GET ANY LIKE THAT ONE WITH THE TOW PKG AND MOON/SLANT SLIDE ROOF .The car was to be 25,000 plus taxes and lic. I really needed my car then the one i was told had hd tow pkge. Shows up as I could find no other. The salesman said it had all I wanted / tow pk. He went with me and my pers. Aid ,to my bank. He stood right behind me at the bank after i pd about 17,000.00 down to get the difference and told me I should take out 5,000. More . I refused.At lot he sent me to girl in the office to pay car in full 34,000. Then when I came out said Oh no there is not hd tow. Took me too office manager , alcohol smell ,refused to refund my cash i just pd.Manager of Bloscoe said take me to see 2013 stripped down version , short van to get instead , said had tow /cool. Back to manager office made me wait long. Outto lunch.Told them no I did not want the car or anything without a tow van .for my trailer. I sat in the van calling the chrysler maine dealership owners who kept saying we cant help you and that was it. The manager kept coming out to make me take my new car out of the parking lot, leave.My first trip my brakes on a trip alone to meet my son from fla.was loud and noisy awfull vibrating. Took it to a garage, after i kept looki n g for a recall found a lot of complaints but not for 2011 t&c . The garage repaired 2 calipers front ,informed me ,went back again , informed now need 2 rotors on back, left the garage again. Replaced rear rotors now says need front rotors to and extreme heat melt all along. Told to hang on to reciepts to get reinb. Did not know There maybe help. Dealership quoting high charges repeatedly and crooked.My money was low
March 28th, 2015 at 4:00 am
The money to pay for my new van. was after i was permantly disabled with arm surgeries ,head and multi perm. Injuries when a elevater exploded me off it in 2009. Is there any recourse for either situation. I am still trying to heal. Thank you.
March 31st, 2015 at 6:37 pm
I bought a 2006 chrysler pacifica for 6900 dollars on 1/16/15 its been in shop 2 times and broke down on me today can you help me
April 13th, 2015 at 9:22 pm
I brought a 2002 Nissan Xterra Truck, I paid $7,000 it broke down within days, I took it to Admiral Nissan dealer, It costed $3400.00 the first time, and then broke down again and costed $3100.00 the second time at Admiral Nissan dealer. It broke down mutiple times after that, but I could not afford admiral, I just paid local mechanic to fix it and it has caused me almost $9000.00 so far to fix in less that 3 months of buying, It need repairs now, but I don’t have the money to fix it and I need transportation. Please help
April 20th, 2015 at 8:37 pm
I have a 2012 Veloster, push start issue, numerous times in the shop and they can’t recreate the issue. the won’t fix anything until they see the issue happen. Numerous forums are out there that suggest this issue is a brake pedal sensor; but getting the run around. It has 47,000 miles but still under an extended warrenty thoughts? Thanks
May 1st, 2015 at 10:54 am
I have the manufactures warranty on my ford focus for powertrain. I have been experiencing shuttering, hesitation, and slipping of the gears. The dealership refused to fix the problem the first time I dropped the car off. This will be the second trip and they said it has to slip after 2500 rpm before they will fix the transmission. I have yet to see any paperwork on that from ford or in the warranty book.
May 13th, 2015 at 12:20 am
Buy brand new 2002 Toyota 4-Runner .Have 200000 miles on it Take for oil change by two months ago dealer told me bottom framework is so corroded is not safe to drive any more,is there anything I can do?
May 22nd, 2015 at 11:50 am
@Dusan: Most likely no but I would not let that stop me from calling Toyota. There may be a silent warranty regarding the issue.
June 9th, 2015 at 3:15 pm
The car is under warranty I am responsible for the deductible 5/22/2015 they determined the problem 5/25/2015 they started working on the problem
My car just started making this loud noise then all the lights came on and it just completely died tried getting a jump and they said wasn’t that I used my sister triple a and had it towed to a shop just so they could determine the problem the mechanic called me and said my engine sized and he didn’t know why because my oils were good so in the morning I called the dealership they had my car towed to their service center I spoke with the mechanic a day later and in fact my engine did seize he said they would replace the engine and my car would be ready in a week, they told me they supply rentals but if I paid the rental place up front they would reimburse me so I sent 367.79 for a week at the end of that week I called back to the mechanic and he said my car still wasn’t ready so I had to borrow a car from family member who I had to pay 200. I called the mechanic this week he said engine replaced car will be done Friday so I called they said there was another problem but it will be done Saturday morning called all morning with no response so I was upset because the lender had been harassing me for payment and I was broke from trying to get back and forth to work and etc so they gave me a rental that jerks like its ready to break down
June 12th, 2015 at 12:11 am
Purchased a 2014 Fiat 500L Lounge less than 3 weeks ago with 1340 miles on it. Second day engine light came on, called a local Fiat dealer and took it in for service under warranty. Didn’t have part, had to order it. Took it back a week later, part replaced. Next day, engine light back on. Took it back immediately, was given a rental car by dealer. They had my car for 5 days, replaced a part on the replaced part. Next day engine light back on. Frustrated and even though very low miles and covered under manufacturer warranty it is not covered under Fl Lemon Law being that I purchased it used. Haven’t even made the first payment and seriously regret this purchase. In less than 3 weeks it has only had 3 days without service engine light on. Just over 2000 miles now and more than 600 of the miles are just driving back and forth to dealer. Is it possible that it might be umbrella-ed under Magnuson Moss Warranty Act?
June 16th, 2015 at 1:42 pm
@Andrea: I would certainly look into the Mag Moss.
June 16th, 2015 at 5:12 pm
When you say manufacturers warranty, does buying a used car and the extended warranty mean the same thing? I bought a used 2005 GMC Sierra and has been in the shop about an accumulated time of 3 months or more for several issues and the last 4 times has been for same complaint (reduced engine power-engine cuts out and loses all power).
June 25th, 2015 at 11:59 am
I purchased a 2014 Yamaha r6 last month . It has 792 miles on it and is already on its third time at the dealer. It would not start or crank over. Took it in and they told me the motor was hydrolocked with oil. It had 150 miles on it after the oil change when this happened. I called to check on it since I did not hear from them. They told me it’s been done for a couple days. I paid 480$ for the repairs when it’s under warranty. Pulled it outside to let it warm up before the ride home and the oil light came on. Back in it went for another 2 weeks. Called to check on it 2days again and yet again they said it a been done for a couple days and it was good to go. I made it a little farther this time. 18 miles to be exact before the motor blew apart and had to have it towed back to the dealer after losing control of the bike from the shock the motor coming apart sent threw the bike and the oil soaked rear tire at 45mph. They told me right away before we even took it off the truck that it was because the motor was previously hydrolocked and it most likely won’t be covered. Out of the 7 weeks I owned this bike I have had it in my possession for 2 weeks. Where do I go from here?
July 3rd, 2015 at 9:03 am
@Eric: Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state. I certainly see a potential claim.
July 3rd, 2015 at 9:22 am
@Carrie: Sadly, it does not mean the same thing. In almost every state, your car would be too old to apply. I would still call your state attorney general and find out if they have a used car lemon law that may come into play.
July 8th, 2015 at 8:28 am
I bought a used 2005 Honda Accord that was supposed to have a 15 year manufacturer’s warranty in August of 2014. Recently, starter started to struggle. I brought it in. The battery seemed old so my brother paid to have it replaced. It stalled three times so I brought it in again, but the tests could find nothing wrong with the starter. They told me to make sure not to flood the motor with gas upon startup. Two more weeks, then the car suddenly died, on a hot day. What are my rights to have this car replaced? Or at least to have them pay for the starter replacement?
July 29th, 2015 at 7:35 pm
I got a 2012 ford focus in 2012.
The first while I had it it was alright then it seemed like the transmission started to shift stangly. With a delay. If I braked and then accelerated it would slip the gears.
I’ve had 2 prior recalls on the car for transmission related issues. Now it’s out of standard warrenty but the transmission is covered under extended warrenty due to the prior recalls. It’s in the shop for the 3rd time. It’s a 3 year old car with 53000 miles on it. This time it really went south. I was 25 miles from home just finished working and got in my car to go home. The transmission would shift past 2nd gear. I drove it straight to the deal the whole 25 miles doing 25 miles per hour or less to ensure it wouldn’t try to shift into that 3rd gear. When I got it there they said they couldn’t get it in till next week. And then I told them about the 3rd recall on the transmission. They said they had to have someone look at it before they could give me a rental but couldn’t get it in till tomorrow. I had to borrow a vehicle from my company to make it to work tomorrow.
is it just or should I not be having these problems on a 3 year old car?
anyway. I got a card in the mail with this website on it. And since I’m out of the standard warrenty I’m not sure if they can help me. And I’m sure the dealer will have some bogus excuse as to why the transmission problem isn’t covered when it’s been persistent since the first year I bought the car.
July 31st, 2015 at 3:00 pm
@Eric: With your service records in hand, give us a call at 1 800 536 6652 to determine if you have a potential claim.
August 11th, 2015 at 9:21 pm
I have an 09 Dodge Grand Caravan that I purchased three years ago. It’s under the extended warranty (third party) that we bought from the dealership. It now at a third dealership being looked at. It’s been in the shop since April and I’ve spent $2300 so far and no one seems to be able to figure out why it’s stalling. We even had a “case file” open with Chrysler and their techs were talking with the techs at two of the dealerships with no results.
October 22nd, 2015 at 4:47 pm
I was in a car accident in August when the funeral home rear end me from the back. My former truck was total lost so I just brought this 2002 Ford Explorer in August 25 and I was told it the barring and changes 4 tires. He wanted 1,800 for it but he drop the price to 1,400. I haven’t been able to drive it since? Do I have a case on this lemon law? I am about to have back surgery due to this car accident. Highly upset about this guy ripping me off. Looking forward to hear from u soon.
November 12th, 2015 at 1:05 pm
@Belinda: I would contact your state attorney general’s office.
January 15th, 2016 at 11:43 pm
I have had my car in for the same tire 4 times now. and it is still bnot fixed and my tranny is still not fixed they say nothing wrong
kellyjo
Lititz for dealer
February 12th, 2016 at 9:15 am
We have owned a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland since the vehicle was released. When the initial 35k warranty expired, we purchased the extended warranty with Mopar. At 74K miles, the compressor for the air suspension failed. The compressor kept running, and we had to remove the fuse to shut it off. The authorized dealer replaced the compressor and it seemed fine, with deductible in hand. In January 2016, we experienced the same issue, only the dealer claimed it was a “hose” that was kinked, therefore we still had to pay the deductible. Not 2 weeks later in February 2016, the compressor is having the same issue and is back at the dealership today. We love the Jeep brand but are completely frustrated with this issue and the lack of attention to the repair. What are our options?
March 5th, 2016 at 6:21 pm
On June 3,2016 I put 2000$ down on a 2008 Jeep Commander.. The next day I realized there’s no emergency break ..the 4 WD does not work the motor mounts were bad it needed a new manifold and the front calibers were no good.. Then a few days later it rained and in order to drive it I had to use a cup to shovel the water out ..then a week or so later it started over heating and the water pump blew..I been to this dealer several times n time n time again the problems not fixed and 3 month warranty has run out now 6-7 months later they say I need a motor..I’m in pa and yes its old n used but this just can’t be legal to do this to someone..
March 18th, 2016 at 3:00 pm
I purchased a 2011 550 MB. In 2012, the car experienced ignition problems. Again in 2014, the car experienced the same issue. And agian in 2015, the same issue occurred. Finally, in 2016, the car was back at Mercedes with the same issue.
March 19th, 2016 at 10:34 pm
I bought a car on 3-2-2016 GMC Acadia 2012 from Direct auto mall. Before delivery I seen driver seat belt problem. They hold this car to days and deliver me on 4th ant the same night i have seen engine Singh are on next day front right tire low air. Took it back to the dealer and everyday they are fixing some different type of sensor and next day and ask me to drive 100+ mile to adjust that’s the way I will pass the inspection. Still that can’t be pass inspection. They are still repairing.
March 19th, 2016 at 10:43 pm
One bad things is I have 60 days warranty. I went to the shop more then 10 time within my first 2and 1/2 week. With same problem. Can’t passing inspection. I was asking the person how I can return the vehicle. Because I am an independent full time driver with Lyft I can’t go back to work until this problem is resolved and I pass inspection. that guy name Lima he shouted on me and punch me choking and push me out from the office in front of there cameras. for this simple question. If u guys thing so that I can get the justice for this happen let me know I will upload dealership name and person who made this happens…
March 21st, 2016 at 5:52 pm
Karen Beers,
Did you happen to purchase your RV in Hamburg, NY at Camping World? We are running into the same issue with the brand new RV we purchased from them. Had it in the driveway for 2 hours and the furnace had major issues. It happened again…it’s back for repairs for the 2nd time. LED lights are out and a tear right at the seam in the new couch noticed before any of us even sat on it. We were charged $125.00 the first time, even though it has a manufacturers warranty and we paid the money for the extended warranty. We will see what happens. The manager was extremely rude to my fiancé. I will NEVER recommend them to ANYONE!
April 29th, 2016 at 11:03 am
I have a 2007 Jeep Patriot that I bought in August 2008, I got the lifetime added care plus lifetime power train warranty. In December 2015 I was told my warranty covered the front right wheel hub. When I took it in for repairs I was told it wasn’t covered but they had to honor what I was told. Paid $151.34 instead of the $100 deductible. Had to take it back February 29,2016 to replace half cracked hub. I still hear the noise and my mechanic seems to think it is once again the front wheel hub. Unfortunately the wheel lock key broke when he tried to remove it. I now have to pay to get it removed and replace all the locks with regular lug nuts. Then I can find out if the wheel hub is the problem. I also feel they knew it wasn’t fixed right or even touched the first time because the woman told me the sound I heard was my wheels. Can I do anything about this? I feel that they may have intentionally sabatoged my wheel lock
August 10th, 2016 at 11:02 am
are NEW farm tractors covered by ANY lemon law ? I am in Pa.
August 10th, 2016 at 2:32 pm
I have a 2006 jeep liberty that I bought 6wks ago. and with in 24hrs from taking home it left me sitting. I have had it to 4 mechanics, including 2 dealships and the used car lots garage. and continue with the same problem. NO one including the sales man wants to help. Is there anything I can do ?
August 11th, 2016 at 5:14 pm
@JJ: They would likely be covered under the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.
September 6th, 2016 at 4:48 pm
My name is Milytza Rivera, I bought a 02 Honda Civic in June. I saw it in a add on craigslist, I went to see the car, and the mechanic/owner of the dealer told me that the car was in optimate conditions to drive. I gave a deposit of 500, and went the next day to pay the rest of the money and sign the papers. I finished paying the $2600, and signed the papers. The guys tells me that he has to take pictures of the car, before taking it. I drive the car and a week and a half later the car overheatsl I call them up, and they tell me to take them the car. Theycheck and tell me it was a hose clamp. I take the car and it overheats again, I take it to another mechanic who tells me it is the thermostat and the sending unit. I payed 90, and take the car which overheats again. I call the mechanic and he tells me to take the car somewhere else, and he doesn’t give money back. I take the car to the dealer, and they ask for $600, beacuse the headgasket had to be replaced. I go to pick up my car, and the car was given to me with noises in the motor, I tell him on the spot, and he replies, with I’m a woman I don’t know anything about cars. I My last stop was at a Monro, where they inspected my car, searching for the noise and rattling in the wheel, after the replacement of the headgasket. they ask me if I had been in a accident, to which I replied no. He then goes on to state that the frame of the car is not in optimate conditions, and it’s not fit to be in the streets. THIS CAR WAS SOLD TO ME WITH FALSE ADVERTISEMENT, FRAUDULENT, AND NOT FIT TO BE IN THE STREETS!!!!
IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO….i NEED A CAR I HVE 2 KIDS, I AM A SINGLE MOTHER. AND NEED THE CAR TO TAKE THE KIDS TO SCHOOL AND GO TO WORK!
September 8th, 2016 at 1:55 pm
@Milytza: Sadly, the age is a big problem. Call your state attorney general and see if you have any used car statutes in your state. It would be too old to qualify for protection under the Magnsuon Moss Warranty Act.
December 28th, 2016 at 12:26 am
Hi so I am financing a suv that is a 2012 jeep grand cherokee. The jeep just turned 1 year of purchase date 2 weeks ago ! The wheel bearing went on the vehicle and I spent 4 days arguing back and fourth with the garage I purchased from and the garage that specializes in jeeps ! I had supposedly manufacturer warrenty on this vehicle when it was purchased because It only has 31 thousand miles on it now ! Was 20 when purchased, both garages told me that my warrenty expired and I would have to pay out of pocket and basically do everything plus pay for this vehicle after 4 days of sitting on a lot ! Anything that I can do law wise ??? I am looking to filed a claim! Just one wheel bearing supposedly 400$!
December 28th, 2016 at 12:31 am
They were not honest with me , they kept trying to make deals and then trying to evolve me into paying more I spent my whole holiday without a car and had to deal with emotional distress and argue with these dealerships because they had to clue what they wanted to do. They told me that all my warrenty expired supposedly in a year’s times frame. Such a huge mess
January 16th, 2017 at 3:48 am
I have a 2011 dodge nitro 4wd .
I’ve had it since July 2016. Has been in the shop about 6 times , and current in shop now and has been for around 2 weeks. Got my used vehicle from carmax with about 60xxx miles on it. Currently has almost 70xxx.
I have a warranty through Carmax that covers anything and everything that happens to the vehicle (not of my doing). It has since then been renewed every time I take it in and out the shop.
My check engine light will NOT go off.
While they have been very helpful. I’m wondering does this Act apply to me as well. It is an extended warranty. However not a manufacturers warranty.
January 16th, 2017 at 3:53 am
I also have all of my service records and invoices. Waiting on the current one since it is in shop now.
Forgot to mention this is the second dealship my vehicle has been taken to besides the one I bought it from.
I’ve mentioned things that didn’t seem right, said my AC went out. My 4wd has been acting up. But none of my service records indicate any work on these parts.
February 25th, 2017 at 5:20 pm
I bought a 2013 Ford Fusion in early October of 2016. As a certified pre-owned vehicle it still had a manufacturers warranty plus I bought an extended warranty that covers everything. Within a week the transmission started shifting very roughly and I would get a hard thump between gears while it was shifting upwards and downwards. I brought it to the dealership and they said it needed a solenoid replaced. After they replaced it, I drove my car home and it was still shifting very roughly. I brought it back the very next morning but they weren’t able to work on it until the next day because they were too busy. They drove it around and said there was nothing wrong with it. So I said I would drive it with a mechanic to show them what I was experiencing. The mechanic recognized that there was something wrong as well. They kept it for another day and just reset some computer settings. They let me drive it around for couple of days and it seemed to shift better so I brought it home.
About a month or so goes by and it starts shifting hard and banging between gears again. I brought it back to the dealership and they drove it around and said there was nothing wrong with it. They said it drove a little rough but if no codes show up they can’t do anything about it. They ended up just updating the computer settings. At this point they had convinced me that this is just how the car drives. I took it home and drove it for about another month. I continued to get hard thumps between gears, hard downshifts, and it occasionally seemed to lose power while accelerating. I did some research and found out there is a whole bunch of other people experiencing what I am and they are also being told there is nothing wrong with their car. I’m going to bring it back again but I want to know if this Magnusson Moss Warranty Act applies to my situation. They have only replaced parts once. But is the manufacturer breaching my warranty if my car is still not operating properly? I am still within my manufactures warranty and I bought an extended warranty that covers everything as well. If you could help me out it would be more than appreciated.
March 7th, 2017 at 4:23 pm
@Jared: It is certainly worth speaking to a lawyer. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state who can help.
June 9th, 2017 at 7:13 am
I bought a 2008 Mercury Mariner in January of 2016. I’ve had it for a year and a half..I still owe money on it. It still has a warranty. I have had it to two different ford garages and the one I’ve had it to three times already.. My dash lights flash on and off and my guages shut down. They told me i need a new steering column and airbag module. But they can’t seem to get the right readings on it so there is nothing they can do. I’ve lost steering in it once so far. What should my next step be and is this considered under the Lemon Law?.. thank you.
June 14th, 2017 at 9:44 am
@Marissa: I am sorry but due to the age, this car would not be considered under the Lemon Law.
June 15th, 2017 at 1:36 pm
I bought a new 2017 Berkshire 40BH RV a couple of months ago in Indiana from a dealership. We recently found out that there was a major leak in the front on the coach were a lot of water got into the engine compartment of the coach and filled up all the ac duct work as well as other portions of the electrical in the engine compartment. I currently have flicking dash board lights, headlight and running light not working, radio and side cameras are not working. I think a lot of this was cause by the original water leak where the dealership attempted to repair but didn’t properly. there is also mold growing the leather above the driver and passenger seating area. The water leak had occurred in February 2017, we purchased unit in march of 2017 and have had problems ever since. Does the lemon law apply with an RV? It is currently at a dealership in Florida and they are attempting to do any repairs needed. Unfortunately every time I get a call from them there are more problems.
June 15th, 2017 at 3:35 pm
@Matt: Every state is different so I would suggest reaching out to a Florida attorney to discuss your rights.
June 23rd, 2017 at 7:08 pm
My husband and I bought a 2013 ford focus in April of 2013. We noticed that it would roll back on hills and had some manual tendencies. We figured that was just normal for the transmission that was in it. Fast forward to march of this year and we took it to our mechanic which said that we needed to take it to the dealer because it was a transmission issue. They replaced the seals, and the clutch and a few other things. It ran fine for a few months. In May we took it to our mechanic again and he said that it was an O2 sensor that was wrong with it. Mind you my car was shuttering and making very weird noises. We just got it fixed at the beginning of June. On tuesday my husband was coming home from work and the car would not shift. it was running 3500 RPM’s when it was just idling. We took it back to the dealership on wednesday and told them the issue. We got it back today and they said they had replaced the TCM and everything was fine. My husband got in the car to go to work and the check engine light was on, and it still wouldn’t shift right. We have the manufacturer warranty and our car is only at 51,000 miles. Is there anything we can do? I am so frustrated..we haven’t even paid off the other mechanic yet and we can’t drive our car.
June 23rd, 2017 at 7:09 pm
*Bought the car in 2015.. it only had 17,000 miles on it.
July 10th, 2017 at 4:46 pm
@Brandi: Please call us at 1 800 LEMON LAW and we will be happy to discuss.
July 10th, 2017 at 9:35 pm
I have a 2017 Tacoma, brand new. Put 7000 miles on it, the leaf springs on my rear suspension are squeaking and i can’t hear this noise anymore. went back to dealership 4 times complaining about this, they said that currently Toyota has no fix and the temporary solution would be : every time the noise comes back I should take the car to the service department and they will wash the leaf springs (that takes the noise away for 2hours). this is ridiculous!! its a leased vehicle and I told them that they should replace the springs or take the car back and give me at least the money that I put down. they refused everything..
Can I get them in court with Lemon Law?
July 17th, 2017 at 1:10 pm
Bruno: Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and fill out the requested info to see if and how we can help.
August 14th, 2017 at 4:02 pm
i am wondering what my options are with a 2015 Cadillac Escalade i bought.
i bought the car 6/17/2017. the very next day the car broke down on the dealers lot and had to have air conditioning compressor replaced. since this time i have had the car back now 4 more times to fix some lifters and 3 times now to fix an emission error. i have had the car 25-30 days out of the 59 possible days. in the last month i have had the car maybe 7 days out of 30 days due to all of the issues the car is having. each time the dealer has had the vehicle for lengthy time frames included the last time for 16 days. i just the car back again on 8/11/17 and assured it was all taken care of. here it is Monday 8/14/17 and i had to call the dealer to let them know there is an emission error. i havent had the vehicle for longer than 1-2 days at a time over the last 30 days as every time i get it back the car starts acting up again. i have taken pictures and videos of the issues for personal records. the vehicle sticker price was $56500. i put $5000 down and made the first payment of $915. right now the loan still has $59,000 left on it. the original warranty is still active and i also purchased an extended warranty. i would like to know what can be done and how the lemon law would work on this vehicle. please help.
August 14th, 2017 at 4:04 pm
i bought the 2015 Cadillac escalade with 36,000 miles and it currently has 40,500 miles.
August 14th, 2017 at 4:12 pm
@Jeff: I think you may have a claim. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and fill out the information so we can review your situation and contact you to discuss your rights.
August 31st, 2017 at 8:31 am
Does this also apply to motorcycles ? How does the ” tie-in” provision work ?
September 11th, 2017 at 1:19 pm
@Uplander–Every state is different.
September 19th, 2017 at 11:20 am
Does this apply to new tractors? I currently own a new tractor and it has been in the shop 4 times for the same broken planetary. I have been with the tractor for 8 months out of the first year of ownership . What can I do?
September 26th, 2017 at 12:46 pm
@Jeff: It would apply. Please call your state attorney general or visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and fill out your details.
October 31st, 2017 at 6:44 am
I bought a 2014 Nissan Altima with 76000 miles, I have driven for about 15 days when the transmission started juddering. Nissan dealership reprogrammed the transmission, it started acting up the same day. Took it back to the dealership and they said it needed a new transmission. Scheduled my car for service but broke down before I could get it there. I haven’t made one payment on this vehicle, what are some options?
November 2nd, 2017 at 2:19 pm
@Brandon: Your rights will depend on the type of warranty you have.
November 14th, 2017 at 4:39 pm
I have noticed that you haven’t responded to any of the questions about RV’s. Are they not covered? We are having repeated problems with a new RV bought in July 2017. It leaked terribly the first use and has been in to be fixed several times for this same issue. We are concerned about mold issues along with the leak never being repaired. Could you at least reply as to whether or not we may have a claim? We live and bought the RV in MD. Thank you.
November 16th, 2017 at 7:45 am
@Diana: We do not handle RV’s unless it it a powertrain defect. Please contact your attorney general.
February 27th, 2018 at 4:56 pm
I purchased a 2015 Hyundai Tucson on January 29, 2018. Today is February 27, 2018. This car is Pre-Certified and I also purchased bumper to bumper Hyundai warranty, bought the car at 15,500 miles on it. After 1 week had multiple issues, brought it back to dealer. They had it almost 2 weeks. They did, after I demanded a rental/loaner at no charge to me. They had the car for almost 2 weeks, just got it back and less than 1 week later, some of the same issues are still happening, seems to be electrical problem. Called dealer and bringing back on March 3rd. I haven’t even made a car payment and this car has been in the shop for longer than I’ve gotten to drive it. What are my rights?
February 27th, 2018 at 5:10 pm
@Kimberly–Once it’s in a third time, it would appear you have a potential breach of warranty claim. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and fill out the details so we can review the situation and how we can help.
March 6th, 2018 at 1:59 pm
Hi, I am reaching out on behalf of my parents. They bought a 2013 Chevy Silverado 3500 Diesel in March 2013. My dad uses this as his work truck and it is his lifeline; he is a pipeline welder. Throughout its life it was in the shop for multiple problems; however in October 2016 the Vehicle Died! The fuel system went haywire and was spitting metal shavings throughout the whole system. It was going to cost my parents a pretty penny to fix this truck and my dad would be without it for weeks! They opted to trade it in on a 2016 (same model) and accepted the loss of $16,800 on the other truck; rolled it into the new truck payment. Within 1 month of purchase, this new truck was back in the shop with a hydraulic recirculating ball steering gear issue. Fast forward to July 2017, just 7 short months after purchase and the VEHICLE DIED! Same exact fuel system issue. This time the Chevy warranty covered it; however this problem apparently is well known throughout all Chevy Service shops and for it to happen to two separate vehicles within months of one another is ridiculous and costly. Not to mention that Chevy cannot guarantee that it won’t happen again. My parents are so upside down on this new truck that trading it in is not an option. Do my parents have any recourse? Is this a Lemon or…? Thanks!
March 8th, 2018 at 12:15 pm
@Krystal: The age may be an issue but there may be still something that can be done. Send your info to https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and we will forward it to a TX lawyer for review.
March 24th, 2018 at 11:32 pm
Hello,
I recently bought a CPO infiniti 2017 infiniti Q50 which is still under manufactures warranty. The car repeatedly throws out check engine light and has very low mpg(11mpg currently but the manufactures says it should be aroung 21mpg). I took the car to the dealership three times but they cannot find the underlying cause of the issue.
Am I eligible to open up a claim under Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act if the dealer cant fix it for the fourth time?
How can I proceed on this case?
I need help from you guys.
April 5th, 2018 at 5:27 pm
I bought a used 2012 Kia Sportage from a Dealership on 2/23/18. I bought the car as is, but a month after having it, my motor went. Originally the shop I towed it to told me the computer diagnoses was the starter. After he replaced the starter, (which was definitely bad as well) He realized the engine was also seized. The car was up to date on fluids, wasn’t even due for the first oil change yet. The motor is completely done, I need a whole new engine. I still owe 9,000 to the bank, only made ONE payment so far, and put down 2,250 when I bought it. PLEASE HELP!!
April 30th, 2018 at 12:43 pm
I am leasing my vehicle and am on track to return the vehicle at lease end with substantially less miles than the limit. As a result, I was intending on paying the buyout and buying the vehicle. Now, I see a class action lawsuit regarding some defective engines in the cars. This has essentially ruined the reputation of the car and it makes no sense for me to keep it plus I will be handing the car in with low miles. Any relief for me?
April 30th, 2018 at 1:10 pm
@Al–Depending on the car, a class action lawsuit may not diminish the value of the car, especially if you are not experiencing issues. Why don’t you take the car to a shop and find out the trade in value before you make a final decision?
May 18th, 2018 at 9:51 am
I have a 2018 Jayco Seneca with a significant water leak. It was purchased brand new in July/August and only used once and has +/- 2000 miles on it. It was brought to the dealer twice and they have been unable to fix. The dealer said it requires a significant amount of work to remove the interior, dry it out and repair the vehicle. They said it was approved by Jayco to perform the work under warranty and that they ordered the parts. 3 months later, I finally got in touch with the dealer (refused to call back) and they are now saying it has to go back to the factory. I called Jayco and they said it can be fixed by a dealer. I called other places and they won’t work on it because I didn’t but it from them.
Jayco is saying that I can bring it to them but it won’t be until the winter!!! I asked them to take it back and they said they won’t. What recourse do I have??? Is it covered under either law??
June 3rd, 2018 at 9:00 am
2016 Ford Focus SE hatchback- 3 transmission repairs under limited warrantly of 3year/36000 miles. Currently at 34,500. Excluded myself from vargas v fmc, well documented and have already declined an offer for extended warranty and pending a declination of $4500 cash offer.
Purchased in KS (66214) now reside in and registered in NH (03257)- seeking the most acceptable remedy, but do not have clarity if I need a NH attorney or KS attorney, or neither.
Issue began under 10k miles and has not be fixed.
Dealer also informed me that the brake components were installed with one berring the wrong size causing unusual deterioration (likely a fiesta part 3mm difference)- fmc declined to replace as “consumer could have installed the part” – OEM parts, no service history on anything related to the brakes.
Please advise.
June 6th, 2018 at 11:39 am
@Stefanie: We do not handle RVS, but I strongly suggest contacting the New York Attorney General’s office.
July 11th, 2018 at 8:19 pm
On 5/24/18 I started my 2013 Santa Fe Sport. I put it in reverse gear. I released my parking brake & vehicle immediately & quickly accelerated back out of driveway. I tried to control it as I ran over a neighbor’s curb. I quickly put it into drive & the car accelerated back up my driveway. To avoid my garage, I quickly employed the parking brake & turned the car off. (it was 30 min. before school children would have been walking down sidewalk!) Dealership tested car for 2 days & couldn’t replicate issue. On 6/21/18 I again started the car in driveway. This time the parking brake was not employed. When I put the car in reverse, the same issue happened again at high speed. This time I barely missed 3 vehicles. Once again ran over the same curb but quickly employed the parking brake & turned off the ignition. This time I rested across the road. It is now 7/10/18. On 6/21/18 we again took the vehicle to the dealership & it has been there since. It has been tested over & over & again, couldn’t replicate. Ironically mid May our vehicle was also there for replacement of a faulty backup camera. I had contacted Hyundai Motor America corporate office. Case # 11382596-Case manager, Cameron, in no way was accommodating nor would he authorize a loaner & said, as far as corporate is concerned, case is closed; vehicle is operating as designed. Obviously, this vehicle is now flawed. An angel was with me 2 times; I am not going for a third! Where is my negotiation with this?
July 16th, 2018 at 3:09 pm
@Carol: Have you visited https://www.safercar.gov/ to see if other consumers are experiencing the same issue?
September 17th, 2018 at 8:45 pm
I bought a 2016 Ford Fusion SE ecoboost new Oct/November of 2016. I put $9,000 down on it. It has 42,000 miles it now (Sept 2018) so the bumper to bumper is no longer. The powertrain is. My car has been at the dealership in the repair center now for 6 1/2 weeks. Up till then it has been a good car with only one repair needed which was under warranty at the time and is unrelated to the issues now. I had noticed that my breaks were loosing pressure when used in succession like pulling through a drive thru when you don’t take your foot off your breaks completely and allow the front wheel drive to pull you forward. I would have to basically stand on them to get my car to stop. I had also noticed a occasional jerk between second and third gear. I had plans to make an appointment to have them looked at but before I could do that something major happened. I started home and didn’t notice anything until I tried to accelerate above 20.. it didn’t want to go and didn’t want to go above 50 or so. It felt like it didn’t really want to switch gears to me. I called them on my drive Home explained what was happening and made an appointment for the next morning. I made it home that evening and to the dealership the next day. Drove it with the head mechanic in it and he says he thinks there is something wrong in the engine. I leave it there and they call me a few days later and say that it’s the turbocharger(eco boost) it’s bad. They then go on to say that it was 2 and 1/2 quarts of oil low!! So I ask where it’s going?! I haven’t seen a single drop on our whitish driveway!! Their answer is that there is a drip pan under the car that catches it all?? Over a 1/2 gal of fluid? Anyways they said it was leaking around the filter. It had only been 3 or 4 months since my last oil change, it wasn’t changed there, changed at sears because they were closed when I needed it done. Anyways, they turn it over to their warranty department not mentioning the oil being low to them and ford replaced the turbocharger under the powertrain warranty. I should say from what I have read about turbocharger there was NEVER any warning they say can happen when they are going bad. No change in my car until that day. No blue smoke, no noise, no less power than when I bought it. I honestly don’t believe the turbo was ever the problem even through they insist that it was in the beginning. After they installed it the mechanic took it out to drive it, said it was making boost. Drove it not far and hears a loud bang and sees a big cloud of black smoke. He had to call them and have to towed back. From that point the said the cam fazors needed replaced. The did that. Still don’t work. Once they were installled them he said it jumped timing on them!! So they then replace the timing belt and timing chain. And still it doesn’t work. Mean time it’s been 4 1/2 weeks and I still don’t have a car. So at this point I ask them for a loaner which they reluctantly gave in to. Because they proceeded to tell me the have to replace the whole lower block.. everything but the head!!! So they basically blew my motor up! I was told parts and labor for the turbo alone was $3300.. I owe them $12,000. By the time they do all this they have almost as much in it as it’s worth. Hopefully that solves the problem? But should I be happy with that, and trust the labor? Will the warranty start over on these brand new ford factory parts?? Oh they also fixed a recall while in there.. a bolt in the steering column. Apparently it could come dettached!! The break issue is a vacuum pump and I will have to pay $320 for that repair since the bumper to bumper is over. The rest is under warranty thankfully. And hopefully the jerk I occasionally felt between 2nd and 3rd will be resolved with all of this and there isn’t a problem with the transmission. It’s been over a week since the order the lower block and I haven’t heard from them. Throughout all of this I have had to call to get updated other than the initial call they have never called to tell me of any other issue. My fear is that this car is now going to be one problem after the other and I don’t think I will be able to trust it again. Is there anything I can do or am I just stuck with it?
September 17th, 2018 at 8:56 pm
I bought a 2016 Ford Fusion SE ecoboost new Oct/November of 2016. I put $9,000 down on it. It has 42,000 miles it now (Sept 2018) so the bumper to bumper is no longer. The powertrain is. My car has been at the dealership in the repair center now for 6 1/2 weeks. Up till then it has been a good car with only one repair needed which was under warranty at the time and is unrelated to the issues now. I had noticed that my breaks were loosing pressure when used in succession like pulling through a drive thru when you don’t take your foot off your breaks completely and allow the front wheel drive to pull you forward. I would have to basically stand on them to get my car to stop. I had also noticed a occasional jerk between second and third gear. I had plans to make an appointment to have them looked at but before I could do that something major happened. I started home and didn’t notice anything until I tried to accelerate above 20.. it didn’t want to go and didn’t want to go above 50 or so. It felt like it didn’t really want to switch gears to me. I called them on my drive Home explained what was happening and made an appointment for the next morning. I made it home that evening and to the dealership the next day. Drove it with the head mechanic in it and he says he thinks there is something wrong in the engine. I leave it there land the call me a few days later and say that it’s the turbocharger(eco boost) it’s bad. They then go on to say that it was 2 and 1/2 quarts of oil low!! So I ask where it’s going?! I haven’t seen a single drop on our whitish driveway!! Their answer is that there is a drip pan under the car that catches it all?? Over a 1/2 gal of fluid? Anyways they said it was leaking around the filter. It had only been 3 or 4 months since my last oil change, it wasn’t changed there, changed at sears because they were closed when I needed it done. Anyways, they turn it over to their warranty department not mentioning the oil being low to them and ford replaced the turbocharger under the powertrain warranty. After they installed it the mechanic took it out to drive it, said it was making boost. Drove it not far and hears a loud bang and sees a big cloud of black smoke. He had to call them and have to towed back. From that point the said the cam fazors needed replaced. The did that. Still don’t work. Once they were installled the said it jumped timing on them!! So they then replace the timing belt and timing chain. And still it doesn’t work. Mean time it’s been 4 1/2 weeks and I still don’t have a car. So at this point I ask them for a loaner which they reluctantly gave in to at that point. Because they proceeded to tell me the have to replace the whole lower block.. everything but the head!!! So they basically blew my motor up! I was told parts and labor for the turbo alone was $3300.. I owe them $12,000. By the time they do all this they have almost as much in it as it’s worth. Hopefully that solves the problem? But should I be happy with that, and trust the labor? Will the warranty start over on these brand new ford factory parts?? Oh they also fixed a recall while in there.. a bolt in the steering column. Apparently it could come dettached!! The break issue is a vacuum pump and I will have to pay $320 for that repair since the bumper to bumper is over. The rest is under warranty thankfully. It’s been over a week since the order the lower block and I haven’t heard from them. Throughout all of this I have had to call to get updated other than the initial call they have never called to tell me of any other issue.
September 18th, 2018 at 1:44 pm
@Mikki: We would need more information and the opportunity to review the documents before determining if/how we can help. Please visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/rid.html and fill out our form–A member of our client services team will be in touch shortly.
December 15th, 2018 at 6:05 pm
I bought a 2012 dodge caravan in the beginning of aug. from Monsters Auto in temple hills, md. I had to take the car back three times since purchasing the vehicle for the same problems. The check engine light and tire sensor light kept coming on and they would say they fixed it with a part. So the third time is now Nov. 22. I took the car back because varies lights came on when I drove it down to Hampton, va and the engine was doing something. They told me my warranty with them had expired and I should call my extended warranty ppl. I called the extended warranty ppl and they said they did not have a warranty for me or the gap insurance I purchased. After the extended warranty ppl told me what I should do. I called back to the dealership and spoke with pablo qui (mgr) for the third time to find out why the extended warranty was not put into place. I asked why it wasn’t they didn’t send the contract or money in until 11/26. Pablo (mgr) said bring the car back to them I told pablo it was recommended by the warranty ppl not to drive it. So on the 11/22 I had my insurance company (geici) tow it to the dealership. The dealership said they had to replace it with a part and they ordered it. So I called to check on my car and all I got was they are working on it since the 11/22. I couldn’t get a answer until today 11/28 after several attempts to reach pablo I had a phone call with Jay and he told me that they replaced the oil pan, but they think its the engine. The engine had to be replaced and the dealership would replace it with a new engine. They sent it to the dodge dealership in Virginia, the engine might have to be replaced and that it would be replaced with a new engine. It then stayed at the dodge dealership for three weeks. When I called the dealership they said they can not tell me anything about my car and that I had to call pablo and find out the status, all pablo could tell was they are working on it and that should call the dealership under any circumstances and not to call him back at all until the 15th. I then asked the name of the owner and phone and was told by pablo he cant give out that information. On the 14th I called pablo and he said it wasn’t ready and that he didn’t know when. He said he can tow it to where ever I want it to go so I said obviously you have no intention fixing the car have it towed to dodge dealership in temple hills. Pablo said it would be there by Friday the 14th and then I got a call on the 15th saying the tow company is running behind and I can get it towed. I called the lustine dealership and spoke to Dan or Doug, he perceives to tell me he cant release it to me that monsters auto had to call them and take care of the invoice. Once again I called pablo and he proceeded to be very rude like he was all previous times and told what the situation was. He was sopose to call me back in ten on 12/15 at 3:45 and never did. I STILL DO NOT HAVE MY CAR NORE IS IT AT THE PLACE I TOLD PABLO TO TOW IT TO. NEED HELP
I feel like they sold me a car that they knew there was engine problem. What should I do, I don’t think I should take a car that the engine has to be replaced. I think they are trying to get over on my because I a female. A mechanic told me not to take the car back and tell them you want another vehicle. He said they could be telling you its a new engine and I wouldn’t know the difference. I have been without a vehicle since the 11/22. NEED HELP.
Cynthia Fletcher
202 640 1886
December 18th, 2018 at 9:04 pm
I bought a 2013 Silverado at a used car lot back in October with a 130,000. And before I bought it they told me that they replace the throttle body canister purge canister and cancer purge valve solenoid and oil sending unit ever since I had the truck the check engine light keeps coming on. And keeps saying air fuel mixture too rich so I replaced the 02 sensors and the mass air flow sensor with no changes. And I kept telling the lot that something isn’t right and all they did was erase the codes and they came back an hour later. And Monday I took it to them for a smoke test for any possible vacuum leaks and there was none. Then I was told that the computer may need to be reprogrammed. I was given a 3 month warranty for the internal and seals on the engine and transmission. Is there anything else I can do?
December 21st, 2018 at 4:39 pm
@Derek: Sadly, with that high mileage, there would not be a case under the laws we work with. Please reach out to your state attorney general to see if any other options are available.
January 23rd, 2019 at 5:43 pm
Vehicle: 2017 Dodge Challenger Miles: 7,5XX. Question: Does this apply to leased vehicles too? There wouldn’t be any diminished value since my lease is a closed end lease. But the car is 1 of 1 in the USA according to Dodge, so I was considering buying it at the end of the lease.
January 23rd, 2019 at 5:51 pm
@Joey: Yes it would. Please call 800 536 6652 for more information or visit lemonlaw.com/rid.html
January 25th, 2019 at 12:55 pm
My daughter bought a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe mid November and 7 weeks later the transmission went completely out. She bought an extended warranty through the dealership from TAPP ( Total Automotive Protection Plan). While the warranty will cover some of the repairs and parts, they do not pay for the diagnostics or the “tear-down” to find out what the problem is $1200, right now. They require to know exactly what happened to the transmission before they pay at all. Should the dealership not be responsible for at least part of the cost since she’s only owned it such a short amount of time. Any advice you can offer would be greatly appreciated!
January 29th, 2019 at 2:12 pm
I bought a new 2018 MT Subaru Forester in August of 2018. On 1/18/2019, a screen came on stating my oil levels were low. I drove at most 3 miles from the time the light came on to my house . My husband I checked the dipstick a few hours later when the car was cold and on a level surface (took out dipstick and wiped clean, then reinserted for accurate read) and the dipstick was bone dry @3375 miles. I took photos for documentation.
I called the the next day and they told me to call Subaru Roadside Assistance to have the car towed in to the dealership (since still under warranty, at no cost to me because I stated I would not be paying for the tow).I called Subaru of America and spoke to a woman. I explained that we had about 20 inches of snow on the way, that I had two kids, and now our only AWD car- my new Subaru Forester- was not drivable. She told me to call the dealer and tell them I needed a loaner and if they gave me any problems, to call her back. They did not give me any problems and I was given a 2019 Subaru Forester CVT (I requested that this one have oil in it).
When my husband and I arrived at the dealership, we spoke with the customer relations person. We walked out with a service tech and the customer relations person. The tech did confirm there was no oil in my car. I explained I needed this in writing before I left and I was given the paperwork stating as such.
I got a call on the morning of 1/22/19 from the dealership which stated something broke internally in the engine in my 2018 Subaru Forester. He said possibly the oil rings broke and the car rapidly and excessively used up all the oil, which then ended up in the exhaust. He said he would be meeting with the regional representative on and would call me shortly after.
The evening of 1/22/19 I got a call from the dealership stating my car had been classified as having Catastrophic Engine Failure and they had to open a tech service line with Subaru of America. He stated he talked to the Regional Rep and obviously “they’re not happy about this” in reference to Subaru of America. They said SOA was leaning towards total engine replacement, not just a short block. We explained how the catalytic converter (and everything else in back of it) would also need to be replaced since the oil ended up there.
On Thursday, 1/24/2019, I got a call from local dealer stating Subaru of America ordered an oil consumption test be done. The service tech refused to do this test and the rest of the department, as well as customer relations person agreed this was unacceptable. I agreed this was unacceptable (since the car was already so far past this point). So with my permission, he stated they would escalate my case to Subaru Consumer Affairs.
On 1/28/2019, I got a call from the dealer stating Subaru of America told the tech to replace the short block only and that the dealership had already ordered the part.
At this point, I no longer trust this car and I would rather a buyback or replacement, but must I go through the 4 repair attempts or 30 days of car in repair in order to proceed with above mentioned possible options? Can I refuse the repair since I know it will substantially impact the value of my new car and ask Subaru to proceed with arbitration now? If they refuse arbitration, then can I proceed with a personal attorney and sue the manufacturer since the value of the car has been substantially impacted and only has 3375 miles on it? Thank you for your time and help with this matter.
January 29th, 2019 at 3:59 pm
@Marcy: Please call us to discuss your situation. 800 536 6652
February 9th, 2019 at 3:05 pm
I purchased a new 2018 Ford Ecosport. I purchased it in Kansas and tagged it in Florida. It has been in the shop in Kansas since November 20 for axle shafts. First one then the other. Took almost 2 months to get the first axle shaft replacement. Today is February 9th.
I would like to know if I need to use the Kansas or the Florida lemon law? Also will I lose my 10 months of payments if they agree to replace it?
March 16th, 2019 at 3:06 pm
I purchased my 2018 Nissan Pathfinder brand new July 5, 2018. At my first oil change at 5000 miles, the service shop found that my power steering fluid was empty, coolant was near empty and washer fluid was empty. Had it fixed, began to have issues with the crash detection sensor, on screen displays would freeze and vehicle would need to be restarted, could not fill gas tank completely and transmission began to shudder on acceleration and at a stop. Took it into the dealer, they could only verify the crash detection sensor but did not have parts in stock and did not have a loaner vehicle – car was out of service for 5 days and not repaired, returned while they ordered parts. Took the car back in for sensor repair, display shut off, inability to fill gas tank and transmission issues. They could only confirm the onscreen nav and had to order a new radio, but service tech said there was a known bulletin for the transmission and gas tank and a new gas pump was to be ordered and transmission retuned. Picked the car up 3 days later, no repairs had been done. Taking the car for a third time for radio replacement and again to address gas tank and transmission issues. Just had 10,000 service done and found the drain pain has massive oil leak, and power steering fluid is leaking again. Do I have enough evidence for a claim? I have to take my car back in for a third time and still having major issues.
March 23rd, 2019 at 10:18 am
I bought a 2013 dodge dart on February 16 it is a certified pre owned dealershop and i got the 48000 mile 4 year 3 star plus warranty. the car still needed to be inspected so was not able to take the car but we gave down payment and signed everything the car was mine just had to wait for it to be smogged and safety inspection. so after 10 days of frustration as they kept saying car would be ready the next day they finally said i could come pick up the car so febuary 26th i got my new used car and was happy so about 2 weeks in the engine did something funny on way back from a long road trip but didnt seem like a problem it just stuttered a couple times well a week later on march 22 or 24 days since the day i drove it off the lot the check engine light came on and car sounded terrible i immediately pulled over called dealer got car towed to dealership. I won’t know if the problem is under the warranty till march 25th as it was friday the car broke down and they wont look at it till monday but they are saying i will either have to pay for the repair or pay the 200 dollar deductible i am very frustrated and do not feel like i should have to pay anything for a car i bought less than a month ago and have break down they were even giving me a hassle when i asked to get a loaner car and had to threaten them that they can just take the car and f off so they at least gave me a loaner but what can i do about this deductible or having to pay for the repair ?
August 12th, 2019 at 9:12 pm
I purchased my 2017 Cadillac Escalade in Tennessee. I live in Alabama. I have carried my car to a certified dealership two times because the back passenger door won’t close properly. After they couldn’t repair it, I carried it to another certified dealership two times and it still is doing the same thing. Is there a lemon law on this? The door will shut but it must be slammed. It is like it is hitting the seat. Please tell me what to do.
August 27th, 2019 at 6:50 pm
I bought a 2007 Chrysler 300 C hemi with the Mopar lifetime warranty. six weeks ago my car overheated it was towed into the service center at the dealership under the warranty and they replaced my engine Excelerator cooling fans and radiator.
after three weeks they gave me my vehicle actually I had to go find my vehicle and when I found it it was filthy inside and I took pictures.
The next morning I wanted to break the engine in so I went on the freeway and drove 60 miles then my check engine light came on again.
I immediately had it towed to a different service center after losing confidence in the last one, they informed me that the service center that replaced the engine did not plug one of the oil plugs. they informed me that it was very dangerous to drive with the oil splattering all over and that I should get it back to the original service center so they may fix it.
That same day it went back to the service center and they still have not been able to fix my car after three weeks of having it in their shop. at this point I don’t have any confidence in their capabilities of giving me my vehicle back in great working condition,
What are my options?
July 29th, 2021 at 2:52 pm
Hello,
I currently drive a 2019 Subaru WRX with about 43K miles. Almost two months ago I sent it to the shop with a blown engine bearing. Subaru said they would fix the car out of good will but the car was still under warranty. They are also making me pay 750 dollars for the repair. That is not my issue. My issue is the dealership has had my car for almost 2 months. I am still paying on the car. What are my options?
Thank you
October 5th, 2021 at 12:28 pm
if i got a car in january and its been back 3 times for the samething and still not fixed do i have a case for a new car or refund
October 20th, 2021 at 2:46 pm
@Davron–Possibly depending on the facts. Please call us at 800 536 6652.