Learning About How the FL Lemon Law Works

Learning About How the FL Lemon Law Works

FL lemon law came about to protect buyers of new motor vehicles from defects and conditions which greatly impair safety, market value, and usability -- also known as non-conformity within this Florida law.

As long as the defects are reported to the auto manufacturer, its authorized dealer, or service agent during the first 24 months (typically) after the consumer takes delivery of a vehicle, then the FL lemon law rights are effective.

The FL lemon law uses clear verbiage indicating that an auto-maker must buy back a defective auto from a consumer and fully refund that vehicle's cost, or provide a free-of-charge replacement if it's proven that the auto-maker failed to stand behind the express warranty contained in the motor vehicle's service contract -- even after reasonable attempts are made by the consumer to have the defects repaired.

The FL lemon law does not cover damages that result from deliberate problem notification delays, modifications done by unauthorized users, user abuse or neglect, or road accidents.

It is highly recommended that vehicle owners always keep proper repair and maintenance records. The FL lemon law also clarifies that consumers should only use qualified service agents for any examinations or repairs covered under the warranty that came with their vehicle. Repair dates can be used to create records, as can notifications received on the days that attempted corrections were completed.

Mileage reports can be used showing the date the auto was damaged and taken to a dealer repair shop, along with the date and time the consumer was notified by the repair shop to retrieve the vehicle. Two other items that should be maintained in a safe place are receipts and purchase invoices.

If a consumer has had to take their vehicle to a service agent more than three times for the identical problem, the FL lemon law dictates that the auto owner must notify the manufacturer using certified, registered, or express mail regarding the final chance to repair the vehicle. This would be the time to produce documents such as a log book, notification of defect form, the warranty book from the vehicle, or any supplemental manufacturer-issued material.

Upon receipt of such notification, a manufacturer normally has 10 days to provide a response directing the auto's owner to a competent repair facility, and an additional 10 days in which to deliver the vehicle and for actual repairs to be performed.

If an auto-maker were to fail to provide a refund or replacement of a motor vehicle, one or two Florida arbitration programs are available under the FL lemon law in which the auto owner is permitted to appeal his or her rights.