What You Need to Know About Oklahoma’s Lemon Law for New Cars

What You Need to Know About Oklahoma’s Lemon Law for New Cars

Oklahoma's Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers who purchase new vehicles that turn out to be defective. If you're considering buying a new car or have recently purchased one, understanding this law is essential to ensure your rights are protected. Below, we delve into the key points that you need to know about Oklahoma’s Lemon Law for new cars.

What is a Lemon?

In the context of Oklahoma’s Lemon Law, a "lemon" refers to a new vehicle that has a substantial defect affecting its use, safety, or value. These defects must be present within the manufacturer’s warranty period, which generally covers the first two years or 24,000 miles of the vehicle’s operation.

Qualifying Conditions

To qualify for protection under the Lemon Law, the vehicle must meet certain criteria:

  • The vehicle must be a new car that was purchased or leased in Oklahoma.
  • The defect must substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.
  • The defect must occur during the warranty period.
  • The owner must have given the manufacturer or authorized dealer a reasonable opportunity to repair the defect, usually defined as at least four attempts or a vehicle being out of service for 30 days or more.

Steps to Take if You Suspect You Have a Lemon

If you believe your new car qualifies as a lemon under Oklahoma law, follow these steps:

  1. Document the Issues: Keep detailed records of all repairs made, including dates, the nature of the defect, and what repairs were attempted.
  2. Notify the Manufacturer: Contact the vehicle manufacturer directly to report the problem and allow them the chance to fix it.
  3. Request a Buyback or Replacement: If the issues persist after a reasonable number of attempts to repair, formally request a buyback or replacement vehicle.
  4. Consult Legal Advice: If the manufacturer refuses to comply with your request, consider seeking legal advice. An attorney specializing in Lemon Law can guide you through the process.

Remedies Under Oklahoma’s Lemon Law

If your vehicle is determined to be a lemon, you may be entitled to several remedies:

  • Full Refund: You may receive a full refund of the purchase price, including taxes, title fees, and registration.
  • Vehicle Replacement: Alternatively, you may have the option to get a comparable replacement vehicle.
  • Reimbursed Expenses: You can also seek reimbursement for expenses incurred due to the defect, such as repair costs and rental car fees.

Time Limits

It’s important to be aware of the time frames associated with filing a claim under Oklahoma’s Lemon Law. You typically have two years from the date of the original purchase to file a claim. Delays can jeopardize your case, so act promptly if you believe your car is a lemon.

Conclusion

Oklahoma’s Lemon Law serves as a vital protection for consumers who invest in new vehicles. Understanding the qualifications and processes can save you time, money, and frustration. If you find yourself in a situation involving a defective vehicle, keep thorough records and reach out to the manufacturer as soon as possible. Remember, knowing your rights is the first step toward ensuring they are upheld.