Connecticut Lemon Law Leads the Nation

Of all of the consumer protection laws on the books, Connecticut Lemon Law was the first of its kind. It was the first Lemon Law enacted in the United States, and paved the way for every other state (and the District of Columbia) to pass their own Lemon Laws.

Vehicles Covered by Connecticut Lemon Law

Connecticut Lemon Law covers new passenger vehicles, combination vehicles, trucks, business vehicles, and motorcycles that are purchased or leased in Connecticut. CT Lemon Law also covers leased 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 two years from the original owner’s delivery date or the first 24,000 miles on the odometer (whichever comes first)
• Has been taken in four times for the same problem (or two times if the defect might endanger the driver’s life and the defect occurs during the first year) or if it has been out of service for a cumulative total of 30 days due to a series of unrelated problems
• The defect cannot result from any modifications that you made

Pursuing a CT Lemon Law Claim

Under Connecticut Lemon Law, there are two ways to pursue a CT lemon law claim: go to court or go to arbitration. It is generally in your best interest to have an attorney represent you in any Connecticut Lemon Law claim. After all, vehicle manufacturers have teams of lawyers that do nothing but fight Lemon Law claims. Most vehicle manufacturers follow the principle of “No lawyer, no money.” In other words, they count on being able to outmaneuver the consumer who hasn’t retained a Lemon Law attorney. While Connecticut Lemon Law may allow consumers to file claims and represent themselves in arbitration hearings, you’ll only be on equal footing if you have an advocate at your side. A lemon lawyer can present your case to the arbitration panel or go to court and can call and question witnesses. His or her expertise enables your attorney to easily dispute the manufacturer’s testimony.

Also keep in mind that being represented by a Lemon Law attorney won’t cost you a dime; CT Lemon Law says that the car manufacturer has to pay your attorney’s fees in successful Lemon Law claims.

Relief Under CT Lemon Law

Connecticut 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 refund of the purchase price, including your down payment, after subtracting the mileage deduction that is computed by multiplying the present mileage of the vehicle times the contract price and dividing that figure by 120,000.

A CT Lemon Law refund typically also includes all charges for undercoating; dealer preparation, transportation, and installed options; sales tax; license and registration fees; and similar government charges. Extended warranty and attorneys fees may also be reimbursed. You can also be awarded a refund for the finance charges you paid after you first reported the problem to the manufacturer, as well as during the time when your vehicle was not usable.