Delaware Lemon Law Explained: Your Rights, Eligibility, and How to File a Claim

Buying a new vehicle should provide peace of mind—not repeated trips to the repair shop. If your vehicle develops ongoing defects that cannot be fixed under warranty, the Delaware Lemon Law may help protect your investment.

The law is designed to ensure consumers receive relief when manufacturers cannot successfully repair substantial vehicle defects within a reasonable period of time.
 

What Vehicles Are Covered?

The Delaware Automobile Warranty Act generally applies to:
  • New passenger vehicles
  • New pickup trucks
  • New SUVs
  • New vans
  • Certain leased vehicles

The vehicle must typically be purchased, leased, or registered in Delaware.
 

What Qualifies as a Lemon?

A vehicle may qualify if:
  • A defect is covered by the manufacturer's warranty
  • The issue substantially impairs the vehicle's use, value, or safety
  • The defect continues after a reasonable number of repair attempts

Examples may include:
  • Engine failures
  • Electrical defects
  • Brake system issues
  • Steering problems
  • Safety-related malfunctions
 

Repair Attempt Requirements

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 30 cumulative days or more

Eligibility is tied to the manufacturer's express warranty period.
 

Manufacturer Responsibilities

If the manufacturer cannot repair the defect, it may be required to:
  • Replace the vehicle, or
  • Repurchase the vehicle and issue a refund

Refunds may include:
  • Purchase price
  • Taxes
  • Registration fees
  • Finance charges
  • Other qualifying expenses

A reasonable deduction for vehicle use may apply.
 

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