NEW JERSEY LEMON LAW
Have you purchased or leased a new vehicle only to have it stop working months later? Does your new vehicle spend more time in the repair shop than on the road? The attorneys at Sauder Schelkopf may be able to help you get compensation under New Jersey’s Lemon Law.
What Is New Jersey’s Lemon Law?
New Jersey’s Lemon Law is a statute that protects consumers who have purchased an unsafe or defective automobile. It allows a purchaser to receive a new vehicle or a refund when issues arise within the first 24 months or 24,000 miles of use.
What Does It Cover?
A new car, motorcycle, or RV which is unsafe or defective.
What Does It Not Cover?
- Used cars
- Motor homes used as living spaces
- Vehicles bought for commercial purposes
How Can It Help Me?
Under the Lemon Law, the manufacturer is required to repair any substantive issue which arises within the first two years of ownership or 24,000 miles of operations, free of charge. Invoking your Lemon Law rights can help you get a defective vehicle repaired.
What If My Vehicle Is Not Repaired?
If the dealership is unable to repair the vehicle after two attempts, or the vehicle has been in for repairs for at least twenty (20) cumulative days, the owner may send a “Last Chance” letter to the manufacturer, notifying them that this is their final chance to fix the defect. The specific language of this letter is important – a Sauder Schelkopf attorney can assist with this letter.
If the dealership fails to repair the vehicle after receiving the letter, you may be entitled to a refund or a replacement.
- A refund, is equal to the purchase price minus reasonable charges for use, and wear and tear.
- A replacement does not necessarily have to be same make and model, but must be a comparable vehicle of the same value.
What If My Vehicle Doesn’t Qualify?
If your vehicle does not qualify under the Lemon Law because of another type of vehicle, or outside the reporting window, you may still have options under law, such as:
- The federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act which covers both new and used vehicles for claims arising under the terms of the manufacturer warranty.
- A Breach of Warranty claim, arising under the manufacturer warranty.
- An Implied Warranty of Merchantability claim, which essentially protects a buyer when a product does not work as one would expect it to.
The attorneys at Sauder Schelkopf are experienced in dealing with complex automotive legal issues and can help you evaluate your potential legal claims.
Sauder Schelkopf (sauderschelkopf.com) is a leading national consumer law firm that advances the interests of its clients by recovering the money they have lost, and obtaining the relief to which they are entitled. The lawyers at Sauder Schelkopf have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of consumers and have earned their reputation as skilled and aggressive veteran litigators.