The Connecticut Lemon Law

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.

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

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.

hese conditions generally must occur within:

• Two years of the original delivery date, or
• The first 24,000 miles, whichever comes first

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.

If you have an unresolved dispute involving a defect that is covered by the manufacturer’s original warranty, BBB AUTO LINE may be able to assist you. BBB AUTO LINE is an out-of-court mediation and arbitration dispute resolution process in which many automobile manufacturers participate.