North Carolina Lemon Law Information
The North Carolina Lemon Law applies when, during the first two (2) years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first), following delivery of a new vehicle:
- the dealer has attempted to repair the same problem four (4) or more times, or
- the vehicle has been out of service for repairs at the dealership for a cumulative total of 20 or more business days over any 12-month period.
To qualify for the North Carolina Lemon Law, your vehicle must have a defect that affects its use, value, or safety. The problem must occur in some part of the vehicle that is covered by the manufacturer's warranty, and must appear within the warranty period. However it does not need to be something that keeps the car off the road. For example, faulty air conditioning or peeling paint could be considered defects under the lemon law.
Once you notify the manufacturer in writing, they have 15 calendar days to fix it. Depending on the terms of your warranty, you may be required to try resolving the dispute through the manufacturer's arbitration process. However if you are not satisfied by the arbitration process, then you can proceed with legal action.
North Carolina Lemon Law information from the Attorney General's Office (PDF) »
