RV Lemon Law in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Lemon Law covers new motor homes and recreational vehicles. 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 expiration of the warranty (whichever period ends first)
• Has been taken in four times for the same problem 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 expiration of the warranty (whichever period ends first)
• You have participated in the manufacturer's informal arbitration program, if one exists

Under Wisconsin Lemon Law, within one year after the delivery date of the vehicle or the expiration of the warranty (whichever comes first), you must notify the manufacturer in writing of the problem. Sample demand letter. The manufacturer has 30 days to respond.

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.

Wisconsin 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
• Sales tax
• Finance charges
• Down payment
• Collateral costs
• Attorney's fees

The amount of the monetary reward may be reduced by a deduction for your use of the vehicle, calculated by dividing the odometer reading at the first repair attempt by 100,000, and multiplying that number by the purchase price.

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.