The Connecticut Lemon Law: A Complete Guide for Consumers

When a new vehicle repeatedly experiences serious defects, Connecticut’s Lemon Law may help protect consumers from ongoing repair problems and financial loss.

The law provides remedies for vehicles that cannot be repaired within a reasonable number of attempts during the warranty period.
 

What Vehicles Are Covered?

Connecticut’s Lemon Law generally applies to:
  • New passenger vehicles
  • Passenger and commercial motor vehicles
  • Motorcycles

Covered vehicles must generally be purchased or leased in Connecticut.

The law may also apply to certain used vehicles if they remain covered under the manufacturer’s original express warranty.
 

What Qualifies as a Lemon?

A vehicle may qualify if:
  • A defect or condition is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty
  • The issue substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, safety, or value
  • The manufacturer or dealer cannot repair the problem after a reasonable number of attempts

Examples may include:
  • Engine defects
  • Brake or steering problems
  • Electrical failures
  • Persistent safety system malfunctions
  • Recurring drivability concerns
 

What Is Considered a Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts?

Under Connecticut law, a vehicle may qualify if:
  • The same defect has been repaired four or more times and continues to exist, or
  • The vehicle has been out of service for repairs for at least 30 cumulative calendar days

For defects likely to cause death or serious bodily injury, fewer repair attempts may qualify.

These conditions generally must occur within:
  • Two years of the original delivery date, or
  • The first 24,000 miles, whichever comes first
 

Manufacturer Responsibilities

If the manufacturer cannot repair the defect within a reasonable number of attempts, it may be required to:
  • Replace the vehicle, or
  • Repurchase the vehicle and provide a refund

Refunds may include:
  • Purchase price
  • Sales tax
  • Registration fees
  • Finance charges
  • Other related costs

Manufacturers may deduct a reasonable allowance for use.
 

Arbitration in Connecticut

Connecticut operates a state-run arbitration program for Lemon Law disputes. Consumers may be required to participate in arbitration before pursuing additional legal action.
 

Documentation Is Important

Consumers should maintain:
  • Repair records
  • Warranty information
  • Communication with dealerships or manufacturers
  • Documentation showing how long the vehicle was unavailable

Detailed records are often critical during arbitration or dispute resolution.
 

How BBB AUTO LINE Can Help

If you believe your vehicle may qualify under the Lemon Law, BBB AUTO LINE offers a no-cost, independent dispute resolution program that can help you avoid the hassle of going to court. 

We can help you: 
  • File a claim against the manufacturer 
  • Resolve eligible complaints efficiently through mediation and arbitration
  • Connect with a knowledgeable Dispute Resolution Specialist who will explain the process, answer questions, help determine whether a claim may be eligible, and guide consumers through each step.

Need Assistance? 
BBB AUTO LINE may be able to help. If your manufacturer participates in the program, you can file a claim today.  

Start a BBB AUTO LINE claim at bbbprograms.org/complaints

Or call 1-800-955-5100