Wisconsin Lemon Law

If you have experienced problems with your new car or truck, you may be eligible for relief under Wisconsin's Lemon Law.

If "You've Got a Lemon", Call us for Free Consultation

Wisconsin's Lemon Law
If you have tried at least four times to get your new car or truck repaired or if you have presented your vehicle for repair and it has been out of service for 30 days or more, you may be entitled to a refund of your purchase price or replacement of the vehicle.

When is a vehicle a "Lemon"?
A "lemon" is a vehicle with a substantial defect which the manufacturer or its authorized dealer has attempted to repair at least 4 times, or which has been out of service because of one or more substantial defects for a total of at least 30 days. The repair attempts or time out of service must have occurred within one year after the vehicle's delivery date or before the warranty expires, whichever is sooner.

Is my vehicle covered?
The Lemon Law applies to new vehicles, including leased vehicles, demonstrator vehicles and executive vehicles sold in Wisconsin including automobiles, trucks, motor homes and motorcycles. It does not cover mopeds, semi-trailers or trailers designed for use with a truck or truck tractor.

What about defects?
Defects that impair the use, value or safety of your vehicle are covered by the Lemon Law.

What remedies are available?
The manufacturer is required by law to attempt to repair your defective vehicle. If the manufacturer fails to repair your vehicle, you are entitled to either a new replacement vehicle or a refund. If you choose a refund, you are entitled to receive a full refund of the money you paid at the time of purchase, and all costs associated with the repair of the defect, less an amount for your use of the vehicle. If you choose a replacement vehicle, no amount is deducted for your use of the original vehicle.

What if a lawsuit is necessary to get relief?
If you must file a lawsuit to enforce your rights under Wisconsin Lemon Law, and it is determined that your vehicle is a "lemon," you may recover double the amount of your loss together with costs and reasonable attorney's fees.

I think I might have a "lemon." What should I do?
Call Clifford & Raihala, S.C. for a free consultation. An attorney experienced in handling lemon law claims will explain your rights to you at no charge.

After I call Clifford & Raihala, am I obligated to do more?
No. We will analyze your situation to determine whether Wisconsin's Lemon Law can help you, and we will give you our recommendation as to how you should proceed, at no charge. If we believe you have a "lemon" we may be able to help you with your claim.

What should I do if my vehicle is having problems?
Document the problem, the number of times your vehicle has been repaired and the dates of the repairs. Get a repair invoice each time your vehicle is in for repairs. Obtain a repair invoice even if the shop cannot diagnose or fix the problem, or if you are complaining about the same problem as on a previous repair visit. The success of your Lemon Law claim may depend upon the repair invoice documents you present. If your vehicle is in the shop for repairs for more than one day at a time, make sure the repair order shows the date it was brought in and the date it was returned. Keep copies of all purchase contracts, warranties, repair orders, letters, and other materials relating to your vehicle and any of its problems.

If you've got a problem, call or email and tell us "I've got a LEMON."

DISCLAIMER:The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation. Results stated depend on the facts of each case. You may reproduce materials available at this site for your own personal use and for non-commercial distribution. All copies must include this copyright statement. Copyright © by Clifford & Raihala, S.C. All rights reserved.