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Michigan Lemon Law Lawyers

What Consumers Need To Know About Michigan’s Lemon Law

A,Lemon,With,Small,Wheels,Attached,To,It.,Lemon,Car,As attorneys representing consumers across Michigan, we often hear from clients who are frustrated after purchasing a new vehicle that turns out to be defective. If you’ve bought a new car and experienced repeated issues despite multiple repair attempts, Michigan’s Lemon Law may offer a solution. This law was created to protect consumers who find themselves stuck with unreliable vehicles that disrupt their lives and finances.

Michigan’s Lemon Law provides a legal framework for buyers of new vehicles to obtain relief when manufacturers cannot fix a vehicle’s defects within a reasonable amount of time. The law applies to new passenger vehicles, pickups, vans, and SUVs purchased or leased in Michigan that are used for personal, family, or household purposes. The Lemon Law does not apply to buses, motor homes, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, trucks other than pickups and vans.

Understanding how this law works and your rights under it can help you make informed decisions and pursue the compensation or replacement you may be entitled to under the law.

Let’s take a closer look at the core elements of Michigan’s Lemon Law, how it applies, and what you should do if you believe your vehicle qualifies.

What Qualifies As A “Lemon” Under Michigan Law

Michigan’s Lemon Law, found under MCL 257.1401 to MCL 257.1410, protects consumers when a new vehicle has a defect or condition that substantially impairs the use or value of the vehicle, and the manufacturer or dealer cannot fix the problem after a reasonable number of attempts.

To qualify under the law, all of the following must apply:

  • The vehicle must be covered by a manufacturer’s express warranty.
  • The defect must occur within one year from the date of delivery or during the warranty period, whichever is earlier.
  • The vehicle must have been repaired at least four times for the same problem without success, or the vehicle must have been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days.

Your Rights As A Consumer

If your vehicle meets these requirements, the manufacturer is obligated to either replace the vehicle with a comparable new one or refund your purchase price minus a reasonable use allowance. The consumer has the right to choose between a refund or replacement.

Under MCL 257.1407, before taking legal action, the consumer must allow the manufacturer a final repair attempt after sending a written notice via certified mail. The manufacturer then has five business days to fix the vehicle after receiving the notice. If the problem persists, the consumer may proceed with a claim under Michigan’s Lemon Law.

How The Buyback Or Replacement Process Works

Once a consumer qualifies under Michigan’s Lemon Law, the next step is the remedy. If a refund is chosen, the manufacturer must reimburse:

  • The full purchase or lease price
  • Collateral costs such as taxes, title fees, and registration
  • Incidental expenses related to the defect, such as towing or rental car fees

A reasonable deduction for use is calculated based on the miles driven before the first repair attempt. If a replacement is selected, the manufacturer must provide a new, comparable vehicle at no additional cost to the consumer.

What To Do If You Suspect Your Vehicle Is A Lemon

We always recommend keeping detailed records of every repair attempt. This includes service reports, dates, mileage, and communications with the dealership or manufacturer. Accurate records strengthen your case and are vital if legal action becomes necessary.

It’s also important to act promptly. While Michigan’s Lemon Law allows one year from the date of delivery or the warranty period to report the defect, the earlier you take action, the better your chances of receiving a fair resolution.

When To Contact A Michigan Lemon Law Attorney

Pursuing a Lemon Law claim can be overwhelming, especially when manufacturers push back or deny responsibility. That’s why we help clients throughout Michigan fight back when auto companies fail to honor their obligations. Our team at Ravid & Associates, P.C. is here to review your case, help you understand your rights, and pursue the compensation or replacement vehicle you deserve under Michigan law.

Michigan Lemon Law Frequently Asked Questions

What Types Of Vehicles Are Covered Under Michigan’s Lemon Law?

Michigan’s Lemon Law covers new passenger vehicles, pickups, SUVs, and vans that are purchased or leased for personal, family, or household use. Commercial vehicles and used vehicles are not covered unless a manufacturer’s express warranty still applies and the issue occurs within the required time frame.

Can Used Cars Qualify Under Michigan’s Lemon Law?

Generally, Michigan’s Lemon Law applies only to new vehicles. However, if a used car is still under the original manufacturer’s express warranty, and the defect occurs during that warranty period or within the first year from delivery, it may qualify. It’s important to review the vehicle’s warranty status and service history to determine eligibility.

What Is A Reasonable Number Of Repair Attempts?

Michigan law defines a reasonable number of repair attempts as four or more visits for the same issue or if the vehicle is out of service for 30 or more cumulative days. The defect must be significant enough to impair the vehicle’s use or value. If these thresholds are met, the consumer may pursue a claim.

How Do I Notify The Manufacturer Before Filing A Claim?

Under MCL 257.1407, the law requires the consumer to send a written notice via certified mail to the manufacturer, giving them one last opportunity to repair the issue. The manufacturer has five business days from receipt of the letter to fix the problem. If they fail, the consumer may file a claim.

What Happens If The Manufacturer Refuses To Comply With The Law?

If the manufacturer refuses to offer a refund or replacement after meeting all Lemon Law requirements, you may file a civil lawsuit to enforce your rights. Michigan courts can award damages and legal fees if the manufacturer is found to have violated the law.

How Long Do I Have To File A Lemon Law Claim?

You must act within the time frame specified in the law: the earlier of one year from the date of delivery or during the warranty period. Acting quickly ensures your case meets all legal requirements. Delaying your claim may reduce your chances of obtaining compensation.

Will I Need To Go To Court To Win My Case?

Many Lemon Law cases are resolved outside of court through negotiations or arbitration. However, if the manufacturer does not cooperate or denies liability, you may need to file a lawsuit. Having an attorney helps you present a strong case with the documentation and legal arguments needed to succeed.

Can I Recover Attorney’s Fees If I Win My Case?

Yes. Michigan’s Lemon Law allows claimants to recover attorney’s fees and costs if you win your case. This helps level the playing field and ensures that consumers are not discouraged from asserting their rights due to the cost of legal representation.

Call Our Detroit Lemon Law Attorneys For A Free Consultation

If you believe your vehicle qualifies as a lemon under Michigan law, we’re here to help. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we help consumers across the state who are stuck with defective vehicles. You don’t have to face the manufacturer alone—we’re ready to help you fight for what you’re owed.

To receive your free consultation, contact the Michigan lemon law attorneys at Ravid & Associates, P.C. at (248) 948-9696. We represent clients in Southfield, the Detroit Metro Area, and throughout the state of Michigan. Let us help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation your case deserves.