Each state has its own version of the lemon law, which offers consumers recourse in the event they purchase a defective vehicle. The Missouri lemon law, officially known as the New Vehicles Warranty Law, only applies to new vehicles. Anyone with questions about the lemon law or other laws that might provide help for consumers should contact the Missouri Attorney General’s office.
Covered Vehicles
The Missouri lemon law applies to both purchased and leased new vehicles, including demonstrator models. Excluded vehicles include mopeds, motorcycles, non-chassis portions of a motor home, commercial and off-road vehicles.
Protection Period
In Missouri, the lemon law only applies to defects that occur within the period of the express written warranty provided by the manufacturer or within the first year of purchase, whichever occurs first. Consumers should confirm the length of the warranty when purchasing the vehicle. Missouri law requires consumers to take action within six months of expiration of the warranty or within 18 months of the delivery of the vehicle, whichever comes first. Any legal action must commence within 90 days of the last action taken by the manufacturer's third party dispute resolution program if applicable.
Qualifying Factors
In order to qualify as a “lemon vehicle,” the car must have undergone a certain number of failed repair attempts or been out of service for a specified number of days during the protection period. In Missouri, a vehicle must undergo at least four repair attempts for the same problem or be out of service 30 cumulative working days. Any time spent on routine maintenance does not count towards this total nor does any time when the manufacturer or dealer could not repair the vehicle due to circumstances beyond its control, such as extreme weather. Missouri law requires consumers to notify the manufacturer in writing of each problem they encounter with the vehicle.
Final Repair
Once a vehicle has met either of the qualifying factors, Missouri law permits one final repair attempt. The manufacturer must attempt the repair within 10 calendar days after receiving written notification from the consumer. If the defect persists, the consumer can request a refund or replacement. If the manufacturer does not comply, the consumer can proceed under the law.
Dispute Resolution
If the manufacturer offers a Federal Trade Commission-approved third party dispute resolution program, Missouri law requires consumers to use it before resorting to legal action. The consumer does not have to accept whatever decision the arbitration board hands down and reserves the right to file suit.
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