Business Vehicles — Lemon Law in Ohio

Ohio Lemon Law covers new passenger vehicles, SUVs, vans, trucks, and motorcycles that are purchased or leased in Ohio. The motorized portions of RVs are also covered, as are used cars that are purchased within one year or 18,000 miles of delivery to the original owner. 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 year from the delivery date or the first 18,000 miles on the odometer (whichever period ends first)
• Has been taken in once for a problem that could cause serious injury or death; three times for the same problem; eight times for different problems; or has been out of service for a cumulative total of 30 calendar days
• The manufacturer has been notified in writing of the defect within one year from the delivery date or the first 18,000 miles on the odometer (whichever period ends first)
• You have participated in the manufacturer's informal arbitration program, if one exists

Under Ohio Lemon Law, within one year after the delivery date of the vehicle or 18,000 miles on the odometer (whichever comes first), you must notify the manufacturer in writing of the problem. Sample demand letter.

You must also participate in the manufacturer's informal dispute resolution process (if one exists) before you are eligible to file a Lemon Law claim in court. If you choose to file a lawsuit, either because the manufacturer doesn't have an arbitration program, or because you are dissatisfied with the outcome of the arbitration hearing, you have five years from the date of delivery to do so.

Ohio Lemon Law provides several options for a successful Lemon Law claimant. First, you may be awarded a replacement vehicle of the same year, make, and model. You may also qualify for a monetary award, which can include:

• The full purchase price
• Finance charges
• Loan cancellation charges
• Collateral expenses, such as towing, vehicle rental, meals, and lodging
• Sales tax
• License fees
• Registration fees
• Dealer preparation fees
• Delivery fees
• Dealer-installed options
• Service contract charges
• Attorney's fees

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.