Lemon Law
Before purchasing a vehicle, it is important to know what you are buying. The "lemon law" protects purchasers of both new and used vehicles in certain instances when the vehicle does not operate as was represented by the seller.
The "lemon law" does not include private sales of automobiles.
For new vehicles, only manufacturers, its agents or authorized dealers can be held responsible. For used vehicles, only motor vehicle dealers can be held accountable.
The HIGHLIGHTS of the law provide that:
- New Vehicles [DC Official Code D.C. Official Code § 50-502]
- During the first 18,000 miles or first two years after delivery, the buyer takes the vehicle to the manufacturer, its agent or authorized dealer because of a nonconformity or defect;
- If the manufacturer, its agent or authorized dealer is unable to correct the problem after a "reasonable number of attempts" [defined in D.C. Official Code § 50-502(d)] or there is a condition which results in "significant impairment of the motor vehicle" [defined in D.C. Official Code § 50-501(12)]; then
- The manufacturer, at the option of the buyer, shall replace the motor vehicle with a comparable vehicle or accept return of the vehicle and return to the buyer the full purchase price, including all taxes, fees and other governmental charges, minus up to ten cents per mile in excess of twelve thousand miles.
- Used Vehicles [D.C. Official Code § 50-505]
All DC motor vehicle dealers must provide:
- Written notice of any material mechanical defect [defined in D.C. Official Code § 50-501(7)] and any damage to the motor vehicle caused by fire, water, collision, or other causes for which repairs exceed $1,000.00 when the defect or damage was known to the dealer; and
- Whether the dealer has conducted any inspection to determine known defects or damage.
DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA)
If you have questions regarding the "lemon law" or a complaint against a manufacturer, agent or dealer, contact the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA), Office of Consumer Protection, 941 Capitol Street NE, Washington DC 20002 • Phone (202) 442-4400 • Fax 202-478-9296 or visit the DCRA website at dcra.dc.gov.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this webpage is not provided for the purposes of rendering legal advice or authority. The Government of the District of Columbia specifically disclaims any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of this publication.
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