Lemon Law FAQ

When does a vehicle qualify under the Michigan Lemon Law?

Generally, a vehicle qualifies under the Michigan Lemon Law when it has a defect or condition which the dealer can’t or won’t fix. Your vehicle must be subject to repair a reasonable number of times during the warranty period.

How many times do I need to take my car back to the dealer before I have a Michigan Lemon Law claim?

The Michigan Lemon Law indicates that the dealer must be given a reasonable number of opportunities to repair your vehicle. This is generally understood to be four (4) repairs; however it may be less under certain circumstances. Also, if your vehicle is out of service for a total of at least 30 days, (parts of days, weekends and holidays count) within the first year of ownership for the same problem, it may satisfy the requirement no matter how many separate visits were made.

Does the Michigan Lemon Law apply to used vehicles?

Yes, however a used vehicle must be covered by a factory warranty to apply.

Does the Michigan Lemon Law apply to leased vehicles?

Yes, the law applies to both purchased and leased vehicles.

Does the Michigan Lemon Law apply to anything other than vehicles?

No, the Michigan Lemon Law does not apply to other consumer goods such as motor homes, motorcycles, boats, computers and the like. However, if you have any other defective product, you may be covered by other Michigan or Federal laws. You may contact the Rasor Law Firm at (248) 543-9000 for a free consultation regarding other products.

Can I have a claim under the Michigan Lemon Law if my repair visits did not occur within the vehicle’s first 12 months and 12,000 miles of use?

Yes. Generally, your vehicle must be submitted one time for repairs within the first year of ownership to apply under the Michigan Lemon Law. Thereafter, your subsequent repairs simply need to occur within two years of this first repair. However, even if you don’t get your repairs in within the required time frames, you may still be entitled to damages under a number of other Michigan or Federal laws. The Rasor Law Firm has successfully settled hundreds of claims that did NOT apply under Michigan’s Lemon Law. We will review your case for such a settlement should you fail to qualify under the required Michigan Lemon Law standards.

What am I entitled to if my vehicle qualifies under the Michigan Lemon Law?

If your vehicle qualifies under the Michigan Lemon Law, you will be entitled to a refund of your down payment, monthly finance payments, and to have your lien paid off in full. You will also be entitled to reimbursement of incidental damages such as rental car expenses, and towing expenses. Or, you may be entitled to a vehicle replacement. Whether you choose a repurchase or a replacement, the manufacturer will be entitled to a mileage setoff based on the miles on the odometer. This fee will be deducted from your settlement, based on a formula contained in the Michigan Lemon Law.

What fees will I have to pay to hire The Rasor Law Firm?

We do not charge our clients any attorney fees. The Michigan Lemon Law includes a provision which forces the automobile manufacturer to pay your fees upon successful resolution of the claim. This makes sense because it allows consumers to pursue a Michigan Lemon Law claim who may not otherwise be able to afford an attorney.

I don’t live near The Rasor Law Firm’s offices.

Can my free consultation be conducted over the phone? Yes, your consultation can be conducted by phone. Documents can be submitted for attorney review by email, fax, or regular mail. Virtually all of our cases are prosecuted and resolved without a face to face meeting with our clients.

Can The Rasor Law Firm help me if I live in a rural town hundreds of miles away from the nearest major city?

Yes, we handle Lemon Law cases Statewide. Because most auto manufacturers are located in the Detroit area, if a lawsuit is required, the case can be filed in the Detroit Metro area. However, if a case cannot be filed in the Detroit Metro area, we will travel to your local area at no cost to you.

Can my case be resolved without having to go through formal court proceedings?

In most cases, yes. Virtually all cases settle before trial and many cases are resolved even before a lawsuit is filed. Auto manufacturers have no incentive to engage in costly litigation on a case where they may not prevail. Accordingly, many manufacturers have programs to settle cases BEFORE litigation is necessary.

Call Rasor Law Firm at 248.543.9000 to schedule a free evaluation today.