When you buy a car, you expect it to run smoothly, not to spend your weekends at the repair shop arguing with service advisors. Unfortunately, many Minnesotans discover that their “like-new” vehicle is anything but reliable. Even worse, dealerships often reassure buyers that “the warranty will cover it,” only for the same issue to keep returning. If this sounds familiar, you may have options under Minnesota’s lemon law.
At Hammer Law, we understand how frustrating and financially draining it can be to own a vehicle that keeps breaking down, and we help drivers stand up to manufacturers and dealerships that fail to honor their promises. If your car continues to have serious problems and you are still under the manufacturer’s warranty, you may have the right to a refund or replacement. Reach out to our Minnesota used car lemon lawyer today for a free evaluation.
Does the Minnesota Lemon Law Apply To Used Cars?
Yes, in some cases, the Minnesota lemon law does apply to used vehicles. However, there are a few key limitations to keep in mind. The law primarily protects consumers who have ongoing issues with a car that is still covered under the manufacturer’s original warranty.
This means that if you purchased a used car that is only a few years old and it remains under warranty from the manufacturer (not just a dealer’s “extended” or “as-is” warranty), you could still qualify for protection.
At a glance, you may have a valid claim if:
- The used vehicle was sold or leased in Minnesota.
- The problem occurred while the car was under the manufacturer’s warranty.
- The same issue has required multiple repair attempts, or the vehicle has been out of service for an extended period.
In the next section, we will break down the details of what makes a vehicle eligible for a lemon law claim in Minnesota.
What You Need To Know About Lemon Law Eligibility in Minnesota
Minnesota’s lemon law was designed to protect drivers from being stuck with vehicles that cannot be fixed after repeated repair attempts. To qualify, you must meet certain conditions related to timing, severity, and documentation.
Repair Attempts and Days in the Shop
Under Minnesota law, a car may be considered a lemon if:
- The same defect has been repaired four or more times, and the issue continues; or
- The vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days for warranty-related repairs within the first two years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first).
- A single repair attempt fails for a defect affecting critical systems, such as steering or brakes, that could cause serious injury or death if the vehicle is driven.
Type of Defect
The defect must be substantial, meaning it affects the vehicle’s safety, use, or value. Common qualifying issues include persistent transmission problems, brake failures, electrical malfunctions, or steering defects. Minor issues like a broken radio or cosmetic paint damage typically do not qualify.
Reporting Deadlines
Drivers must report the problem to the manufacturer within the warranty period, which is the first two years of delivery or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. Timeliness matters. Waiting too long to report or document the issue can make it harder to pursue a claim.
Usage and Maintenance Requirements
The owner must have used and maintained the vehicle according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. If the car has been modified, neglected, or used for commercial purposes beyond everyday use, its eligibility may be affected.
In short, if your used car keeps breaking down while still under warranty and the issue cannot be fixed after reasonable attempts, Minnesota law may be on your side.
How Lemon Law Compensation Works for Used Cars
If your vehicle qualifies as a “lemon,” you may be entitled to one of two primary remedies: a replacement vehicle or a refund.
Here is what that typically means:
- Replacement Vehicle: The manufacturer provides a new or comparable vehicle, free from the recurring defect.
- Refund: The manufacturer buys back the defective car, reimbursing you for the purchase price, taxes, registration fees, and certain incidental costs.
However, it is essential to understand that the refund may be adjusted based on usage. This means the manufacturer may deduct a “reasonable allowance” for the miles you drove before the defect first appeared. Essentially, the longer you have used the vehicle before the issue arose, the more that amount may be reduced. Compensation may also include reimbursement for towing, rental car costs, and certain other expenses directly related to the repeated repairs.
What is the Used Car Lemon Law Process?
Once you meet the eligibility requirements, the lemon law process in Minnesota follows several key steps.
- Written Notice to the Manufacturer: Before filing a claim, you must send written notice to the vehicle’s manufacturer detailing the ongoing defect and previous repair attempts. This gives the manufacturer one last opportunity to fix the problem.
- Arbitration: If the issue remains unresolved, you can pursue arbitration. Minnesota law requires many manufacturers to participate in a state-certified arbitration program before a lawsuit can be filed. Arbitration allows both sides to present their evidence before a neutral third party who will decide whether you qualify for relief.
- Legal Action: If arbitration does not lead to a fair resolution, you may file a lawsuit under Minnesota’s lemon law.
At Hammer Law, we handle every aspect of this process, from drafting the initial notice to representing you in arbitration or litigation if necessary.
Why Reach Out To Our Minnesota Used Car Lemon Law Lawyer For Help?
Used car lemon law claims can be complicated. Deadlines are strict, documentation must be complete, and manufacturers often have legal teams ready to challenge claims. That’s where we step in.
At Hammer Law, we guide Minnesotans through every stage of the process. We:
- Review repair records and warranty coverage to determine if your vehicle qualifies
- Handle all communications with the manufacturer on your behalf
- Prepare and file required notices or arbitration paperwork
- Represent you in arbitration or court if needed
We also help you get organized from the start, explaining what documents to gather and what to expect at each step. Our goal is to make the process as clear and stress-free as possible while fighting to hold the manufacturer accountable.
If your used car keeps breaking down and the dealership or manufacturer isn’t helping, we are ready to fight for a fair resolution and the compensation you deserve.
What To Do if You Bought a Lemon Used Car
If you think your used car qualifies as a lemon, the most important thing you can do right now is start documenting everything. Proper records are key to proving your claim under Minnesota law.
Here are some steps you can take immediately:
- Keep All Repair Orders and Receipts. Each time you bring your vehicle in for service, ensure the repair order clearly lists the date, mileage, and a detailed description of the issue.
- Track Communication. Save emails, texts, or letters from the dealership or manufacturer. Write down who you spoke with and what they said.
- Record Downtime. Note every day your car was in the shop. Cumulative days out of service can determine your eligibility.
- Report the Issue Promptly. Don’t wait. The sooner you notify the manufacturer in writing, the stronger your case will be.
- Consult an Attorney Early. Even before arbitration or litigation, a lemon law lawyer can ensure that you do not miss key steps or deadlines.
By taking these steps, you protect your rights and strengthen your case. If you are unsure where to start, our team can review your paperwork and help you move forward.
Get in Touch With Hammer Law: The Experts in Lemon Law
If you are dealing with a defective used vehicle and ongoing repair headaches, you do not have to face it alone. The Minnesota used car lemon law exists to protect you, and Hammer Law is here to make sure those protections work in your favor.
Our team has helped countless Minnesota drivers obtain fair resolutions when manufacturers failed to fix their vehicles. We know the tactics automakers use to delay or deny legitimate claims, and we know how to push back. Whether your case leads to arbitration, settlement, or litigation, our goal remains the same: to help you recover the money you invested or secure a reliable replacement vehicle that truly works as promised.
Call us today for a free consultation. Let us review your repair history, explain your options in plain language, and guide you toward a fair resolution. You have rights, and we are ready to stand up for them.
