Lemon Law in Arkansas

The Lemon Law is a consumer law written to protect you from defective equipment. Basically, if your new car doesn't work properly you get a replacement or a refund.

The Arkansas lemon law explains what constitutes as a lemon, the solutions to fix the issues and the remedies available to compensate you for a car that can't be fixed.

On this page you'll find a basic overview of the Arkansas lemon law and the steps to take if you end up with a lemon.

Arkansas Lemon Law Details

As the consumer, you are expected to try and resolve the problem directly with your vehicle's manufacturer and the authorized dealer. The manufacturer has issued a vehicle warranty and the dealer should be able to facilitate the repairs for you.

If your new vehicle is defective in such a way that may cause death or serious injury, it should meet the Arkansas lemon law criteria. However, the vehicle is only covered for the longest of either:

  • 24,000 miles.
  • 24 months.
    OR
  • The duration of the manufacturer's warranty.

The Arkansas lemon law does NOT cover:

  • Mopeds.
  • Motorcycles.
  • The living area in a motorhome.
  • Vehicles weighing more than 13,000 lbs.

You'll need to contact the manufacturer or an authorized dealer to allow them a number of attempts to repair the problem.

The manufacturer will get 3 attempts to fix your defective car. If the defect is serious and could hurt someone, it must be handled immediately.

If after 3 attempts your vehicle is not repaired, you'll need to notify the manufacturer/authorized dealer that it has a final attempt to fix the issue. Within 10 days of receiving your notification, the manufacturer must:

  • Give you the option of attempting to have your car repaired at a service facility near you.
    AND
  • Repair the defect on your car within 10 days of it arriving at the service station.

If your vehicle is not repaired within 10 days, the final attempt does not count.

Keep careful notes of conversations, and copies of all correspondence and receipts because if the case goes before the Office of the Attorney General, you'll need documentation.

Resolutions & Settlements for a Lemon in Arkansas

Your defective car will be replaced or repurchased by the manufacturer if you qualify under the Lemon Law.

After attempting to repair your car and failing to do so, within 40 days the manufacturer must either:

  • Replace your defective car with a new one.
    OR
  • Repurchase and refund you the value of your car.

Most often, you will find the manufacturer agreeable because they want you as a lifelong customer. Negative publicity can be costly and damaging to a manufacturer or dealer.

If you are not able to settle your lemon law vehicle issue with your vehicle's manufacturer you can hire an attorney and contact the consumer department in the Office of the Attorney General to file a consumer complaint.

For more information about the Arkansas lemon law, how to file a complaint or record repairs, and contact your vehicle's manufacturer, please visit the Consumer's Guide to the Arkansas Lemon Law on the Attorney General website.

Contact the Arkansas consumer protection hotline at (800) 482-8982 with questions or to request a lemon law guide by mail.

Hiring an Arkansas Lemon Law Attorney

Hiring an Arkansas attorney who specializes in lemon law can help you settle your case. When choosing your lemon law attorney, be sure to check:

  • Credentials: You want someone who is qualified and has extensive knowledge of the lemon law in AR.
  • Experience: Try to find an attorney who has handled lemon law cases similar to yours and has a good track record.
  • Recommendations: Hire someone who comes highly recommended. If you can get referrals from people you know, even better!
  • Price and payment terms: While you want to hire a good lemon law attorney with ample experience, you want to make sure their services are affordable.

Benefits of Hiring an Attorney in AR

While hiring an Arkansas lemon law attorney may seem like an unnecessary additional cost, hiring one can actually help you in the long run by:

  • Making sure you receive full compensation from the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Taking the stress out of handling your case.
  • Negotiating with the manufacturer on your behalf.

A reputable attorney who is well versed in the Arkansas lemon law can make sure you get what you deserve with minimal stress.

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