Top 5 Myths About Lemon Law – Busted!

Lemon law is a powerful tool for consumers, but there’s a lot of misinformation floating around that keeps people from taking advantage of it. If you've ever heard someone say "you need to have the exact same issue four times" or "lemon law only applies to brand-new cars," it's time to set the record straight. In this post, we’re busting the top 5 lemon law myths so you can understand your rights—and use them with confidence.

1. Myth: Lemon Law Only Applies to Brand-New Cars

Truth:Many states also cover used or certified pre-owned vehicles—especially if they’re still under a manufacturer’s warranty. Always check your state’s specific laws.

2. Myth: You Have to Have the Exact Same Problem Four Times

Truth:Not necessarily. Some laws say three attempts for the same issue or even two attempts if it's a serious safety defect. In other cases, if your car has been in the shop for 30+ total days, it might qualify regardless of the issue.

3. Myth: It Takes Forever to Win a Lemon Law Case

Truth:Many lemon law cases are resolved within a few months—sometimes faster if handled by an experienced attorney. Don’t let time fear keep you stuck in a faulty car.

4. Myth: You’ll Have to Pay a Lot in Legal Fees

Truth:Lemon law is consumer-friendly. Most lemon law attorneys work on a contingency basis and collect fees from the manufacturer—not from you.

5. Myth: If the Dealer Is “Trying” to Fix It, You Can’t Take Legal Action

Truth: Intentions don’t matter as much as results. If the problem isn’t getting fixed after a reasonable number of attempts, you may still have a claim—even if the dealer has been "nice."

Don’t let myths stop you from asserting your rights. If your car is a lemon, you could be eligible for a replacement or refund—and it won’t cost you a dime to find out. If you're unsure, talk to a C&C Lemon Law attorney and get the clarity you deserve.