Jan 13 2022

The Texas Lemon Law is a law that provides a remedy for people who bought a defective vehicle covered under a manufacturer’s written warranty. What is the Texas Lemon Law? How does it work? Who is covered? How do you know if you qualify? A Dallas lemon law firm like The Law Office of Darin Siefkes can help. If you have a question about your rights under the Texas Lemon Law, here are some common questions and their answers.

Who Can Use the Law?

To use the Texas Lemon Law, you must be able to demonstrate that your vehicle has a substantial manufacturing defect covered by a manufacturer’s written warranty. The law applies to new cars, trucks, motorcycles, recreational vehicles (RVs), travel trailers, and motor homes. These are expensive items that can be difficult to replace or repair if they break down. That’s why the Texas Lemon Law is there to help.

Can the Dealer Keep Trying to Fix the Defect?

The law allows the dealer or manufacturer a reasonable number of attempts to repair the vehicle. There are three primary tests that you can use to assess whether they’ve had enough attempts. 

Four Times Test

If you take your vehicle into the dealer for repairs on four separate occasions for the same defect within the first 24 months you own the vehicle or the first 24,000 miles and the defect is still not repaired, you have a lemon.

Serious Safety Hazard Test

If the defect poses a serious safety hazard, you have a lemon. Serious safety hazards include brakes that don’t work well enough to stop the vehicle within a safe distance, steering that doesn’t allow for safe control of the vehicle or defects that create a substantial risk of fire or explosion.

30 Day Test

If your vehicle hasn’t been operable for 30 days or more in its first 24 months or 24,000 miles, you have a lemon. Keep all repair invoices with your car records in order to show that this is the case.

Should I Hire a Lawyer?

Yes. If you suspect that you might have a Lemon Law claim, it’s wise to have an experienced Dallas lemon lawyer assist you. A lawyer can help you evaluate the strength of your claim. He or she can also help you negotiate with the manufacturer to get a replacement vehicle, a refund or reimbursement for repairs, and other relief you are entitled to under the Lemon Law. You are not required to have a lawyer if you have a claim, but it can be helpful to have one.

The Texas Lemon Law protects Texas consumers from defects in new motor vehicles. The law is designed to give vehicle buyers a way to fight back if their new vehicle is faulty, and the manufacturer won’t make it right. A qualified Lemon Law attorney can help you determine if your car qualifies for protection under the law. Call The Law Office of Darin Siefkes to schedule a consultation at 512-206-4242.