Every state has a Lemon Law, there are minor variances from one state to another but the basics are the same. The Washington Lemon Law, like other state laws have been enacted to ensure that anyone that buys a new car that has warranty repair failures or mechanical failures that simply cannot be repaired, have recourse. The recourse in Washington is either a replacement vehicle or a refund of the purchase price.
Car buyer’s protection under the Washington Lemon Law:
When a new car owner is of the impression that his or new vehicle meets the Washington Lemon Law criteria, he or she can ask for arbitration from the Office of the Attorney General, the arbitrator will, after taking everything into account, decide if the owners claim is valid.
There are four Lemon Law categories in the state:
- Unrepaired non-conformity: The manufacturer has tried four times to repair the defect, 1 attempt was made while the car was still covered by the warranty.
- Unrepaired serious defect: The manufacturer is given 2 chances when the defect is such that serious injury or death may result.
- Multiple serious defects: The manufacturer is given 1 chance per defect during the warranty period
- The vehicle was unavailable to the owner for a total of 30 days.
The Washington Lemon Law does not apply to anything other than new vehicles; the following are excluded under the law:
- Motorcycles under 750cc
- Trucks rated 19,000 pounds and up gross weight
- Motor homes, although the chassis is covered
- Vehicles leased by a business (fleet of 10 or more)
Arbitration:
If you have a claim it must be sent to arbitration. In the event the arbitrator agrees with you the manufacturer will be instructed to either refund your money on a pro-rated basis or give you a new vehicle of equal spec and value. The arbitration period lasts for 30 months after the date the vehicle was delivered to the new owner.
The Washington Lemon Law is very specific on what actions are required by the vehicle owner and the vehicle manufacturer. For further information you are invited to visit us.
