You ever buy a “new” car and then think
“Why is it in the shop more than my driveway”
“Is this normal or did I just buy a lemon”
“Can I actually make them take it back”
Yeah
I’ve been there
Feeling stuck
Paying for a car that barely ran
And nobody at the dealer wanted to help
Here’s the real deal about understanding your state’s lemon laws: when to demand a buyback
So you can stop being nice
And start getting what you’re owed
I’m Myriam
Makeup artist
Car buyer
And unofficial lemon law expert thanks to personal experience
Why You Need To Know This
Because dealers and manufacturers will not bring it up for you
✅ If your car is a lemon you don’t have to just “live with it”
✅ Every state has some version of a law to protect you
✅ But you’ve got to know your rights and act on them
What Is A Lemon Anyway?
Not just a car you don’t like
A lemon is:
✅ A car with a serious defect that affects its use safety or value
✅ The defect shows up during the warranty period
✅ The dealer or manufacturer can’t fix it after a reasonable number of tries
How Do You Know When To Demand A Buyback?
Here’s how I figured it out
And how you can too
Step 1: Check If Your Car Qualifies
✅ New or sometimes used cars still under warranty
✅ The problem must be covered by the warranty
✅ The fault must happen within the time or mileage limits in your state law
Some states even cover motorbikes RVs and leased vehicles — check the details where you live
Step 2: Count The Repair Attempts
✅ Most states say the dealer gets about 3–4 chances to fix the same problem
✅ Or if the car is in the shop for 30+ days total — even for different problems — that counts too
So if they’ve “fixed” it multiple times and it still isn’t right
You’re in lemon territory
Step 3: Gather Your Evidence
✅ Keep every single repair invoice
✅ Note the dates and mileage of each visit
✅ Write down how the issue affects you (like making it unsafe or undriveable)
✅ Take photos or videos if possible
You’ll need this to show the manufacturer or if it goes to court
Step 4: Demand The Buyback Or Replacement
✅ Once you’ve hit the threshold — write a formal demand letter
✅ Send it to the manufacturer (not just the dealer)
✅ Some states require you to try arbitration first — check what applies to you
My Own Lemon Law Story
Bought a brand new SUV
Brake warning light came on three days after driving it home
Back to the dealer
They “fixed” it
Then it came back
And back
Four times in three months
Finally demanded a buyback
Got my money back plus a little extra for my trouble
Lesson:
Don’t just complain — document everything and push back hard
Quick Tips To Protect Yourself
☑ Read your state’s lemon law online — it’s free and easy to find
☑ Never lose a repair invoice
☑ Be polite but firm with the dealer
☑ If they drag their feet — call a lemon law lawyer (most don’t charge upfront)
☑ Don’t wait too long — there are strict time and mileage limits
FAQs About Understanding Your State’s Lemon Laws: When to Demand a Buyback
Do lemon laws cover used cars?
Sometimes — depends on the state. Usually only if it’s still under warranty.
Can I get cash instead of a replacement?
Yes — you can usually choose a refund or a comparable replacement.
What if the dealer says “it’s normal”?
Doesn’t matter — if it can’t be fixed and affects safety or use, it’s still a lemon.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not always — but it can make the process quicker and less stressful.
Can they charge me for mileage?
Yes — most states allow them to deduct a small amount for the miles you drove before the first repair.
Final Word On Understanding Your State’s Lemon Laws: When to Demand a Buyback
If you’re stuck wondering about understanding your state’s lemon laws: when to demand a buyback
Here’s the truth:
You have more rights than they want you to know
If it’s broken and they can’t fix it — you don’t have to just accept it
Get your paperwork in order
Speak up
And get your money back
