New Car A Dud? What You Need To Know About Michigan’s Lemon Law

Recently, I was excited to purchase my very first brand-new vehicle. It's a 2024 model, fresh off the lot with only 17 miles on it, and I couldn't wait to go on some adventures around West Michigan with my new wheels. But earlier this week, just two months after buying my car, it broke down on the side of I-96 outside of Grand Rapids, with less than 10,000 miles on the odometer.

As anyone could imagine I was incredibly frustrated. After spending all of that money, you'd think I'd be having zero problems. In my frustration, I started to dig into Michigan's Lemon Law (The law that protects people from purchasing cars that are "lemons" or duds) to see if it applied to my situation.

If you've recently purchased or leased a vehicle in Michigan and are experiencing repeated issues, you might be wondering if you have any legal recourse. Michigan's Lemon Law could be the answer you're looking for, providing protections for consumers who find themselves stuck with a defective vehicle.

What Does Michigan's Lemon Law Cover?

Michigan's Lemon Law applies to certain types of vehicles, including passenger cars, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), pickup trucks, and vans. To be eligible, the vehicle must have been purchased or leased in Michigan, or by a Michigan resident if the transaction took place out of state. Additionally, the vehicle must come with a manufacturer’s express warranty at the time of purchase or lease.

It's important to note that not all vehicles fall under the protection of Michigan’s Lemon Law. Motor homes, buses, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, and trucks other than pickups and vans are excluded from coverage.

Who is Protected?

The law covers not just individuals, but also a wide range of entities, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, government agencies, and other legal entities. However, the vehicle must be used for personal, family, or household purposes and cannot be resold or leased to someone else while the claim is active.

What the Lemon Law Doesn't Cover:

The Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers from defects that exist at the time of purchase or lease. It does not cover issues that arise due to modifications made after the vehicle was acquired unless those changes were made by or for the manufacturer. Additionally, defects caused by abuse, neglect, or damage that happens after purchase are not covered.

If you believe your vehicle qualifies as a lemon under Michigan's Lemon Law, it's crucial to understand your rights and the limitations of the law. Make sure to follow the terms of your manufacturer's warranty and keep detailed records of any issues you encounter. By doing so, you'll be better prepared to enforce your rights and potentially get what you deserve!