Leased Vehicle Lemon Law in Kentucky

Kentucky Lemon Law covers leased, new passenger vehicles, SUVs, vans, and trucks that are purchased or leased by Kentucky residents and that are purchased or leased in Kentucky. In order to be considered a "lemon," the vehicle must meet the following requirements:

• Does not conform to the manufacturer's express warranty
• Has substantial defects affecting the use, safety or value of the vehicle
• Has manufacturer's defects that occurred during the first 12 months from the delivery date or the first 12,000 miles (whichever comes first)
• Has been taken in four times for the same defect or ten times for unrelated defects, or has been out of service for cumulative total of 30 calendar days
• It is used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes

Even if your car doesn't qualify under Kentucky Lemon Law, the state has another law that requires vehicle manufacturers to provide consumers with a cost-free informal dispute resolution system if:

• The vehicle is used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes and you are the original owner
• The defect occurred during the first two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first
• You are a Kentucky resident and you purchased the car in Kentucky

The decision in the informal dispute resolution system is binding on the manufacturer, but not on the consumer.

Under Kentucky Lemon Law, you must notify the manufacturer of the problem with your vehicle within 12 months of taking delivery of the vehicle or the first 12,000 miles (whichever comes first).

Wherever you are in the Lemon Law claim process, it is generally in your best interest to have an attorney represent you. After all, vehicle manufacturers have teams of lawyers that do nothing but fight Lemon Law claims. As you consider your options, imagine the difference between going up against a team of lawyers on your own, versus having a Lemon Law attorney speak on your behalf. Also keep in mind that being represented by a Lemon Law attorney won't cost you a dime if you go to court; the law says that the car manufacturer has to pay your attorney's fees in successful Lemon Law claims.

However, if you decide to go it alone, before you are eligible to file a Lemon Law claim in court, you must file a request for arbitration with the manufacturer's arbitration program.