What is a Lemon Under Washington DC Lemon Law?

Washington, D.C. Lemon Law covers new passenger vehicles, SUVs, trucks, and business vehicles, RVs, and motorcycles that are purchased, leased, or registered in Washington, D.C. If you are not the original owner of the vehicle, but your vehicle meets all of the requirements, it is covered under Washington, D.C. Lemon Law. 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 two years from the original owner's delivery date or the first 18,000 miles on the odometer (whichever period ends first)
• Has been taken in four times for the same problem or if it has been out of service for 30 days due to a series of unrelated problems. In the case of a safety-related defect, the vehicle only has to be taken in once and not repaired
• Defects were not caused by an accident, vandalism, abuse, or neglect
• Cannot have problems associated with any modifications that you made

Pursuing a DC Lemon Law Claim

Under Washington, D.C. Lemon Law, you must notify the manufacturer, its agents, or authorized dealers of the problem.
If the manufacturer doesn't accept your Lemon Law claim, and will not refund your money or replace your vehicle.