North Carolina Lemon Laws and the federal Lemon Law, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, provide for compensation to North Carolina consumers who purchase "lemon" vehicles within the state. These laws took effect in 1987.
What is a Lemon?
A vehicle is classified as a lemon if it is not repaired after four attempts or if it is unable to be operated for a total of 20 or more business days in a 12-month period. Also, the gross weight of the vehicle has to be 10,000 pounds or less.
What the Law States
The lemon laws of North Carolina clearly identify what cars are considered lemons. The laws identify the exact relief to which a person who purchases or leases a car is entitled. Lastly, the law states that any manufacturer who is unwilling to give what the person is entitled to must pay triple damage and attorney's fees.
Required Notification
In order for the North Carolina Lemon Law to be valid, the consumer must supply a written notification of the defects to the manufacturer and finance company. This must occur once the car has been out for 15 days or has been sent in three times for the same repair.
Available Remedies to the Consumer
If a car cannot be repaired, the consumer is entitled to choose a comparable vehicle with the same value. In certain cases, a new replacement is allowed. Or, a consumer has the right for a refund instead of a new vehicle.
Things to Remember
Consumers who purchase vehicles are responsible for having them serviced at authorized dealers. Certain changes or alterations to vehicles can void contracts and not allow consumers to qualify for "lemon law" rights. Every consumer should read the owner's manual carefully and follow all maintenance guidelines.
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