Lemon Law in Minnesota

Minnesota's "lemon law" is a statute protecting purchasers of new vehicles in the state from vehicle failure. While it does not address all problems with all vehicles, as Minnesota's Attorney General advises, it can provide recourse for drivers who have found themselves saddled with an unsafe and faulty vehicle.

The lemon law in Minnesota requires manufacturers to live up to warranties with regards to time and mileage coverage.

Vehicles Covered Under MN Lemon Laws

The Minnesota lemon law applies to new and used vehicles still under the manufacturer's original warranty. The vehicle must be:

  • Used for personal transportation at least 40% of the time.
    AND
  • If leased, have a term longer than 4 months.

For a vehicle to be considered a lemon, it must have a defect covered by the warranty that:

  • The manufacturer has made at least 4 attempts to repair.
  • The manufacturer has made at least 1 attempt to repair (if the defect is related to the brakes or steering).
    OR
  • Caused the vehicle to be out of service for repairs for at least 30 business days (cumulative).

You must first report any problems or defects in a covered vehicle within the warranty time frame, or 2 years from delivery of the vehicle, whichever comes first. If the same issues or problems with a vehicle continue, the claim period may be extended to 3 years.

Vehicles Ineligible for Lemon Law Protection

The following are cases or circumstances where refunds or replacements are not given under the MN lemon law:

  • The vehicle problem or issue does not impact the vehicle's use or value.
  • The problem is a result of neglect, abuse, or unauthorized vehicle alterations.

Filing a Lemon Law Claim in MN

To be eligible for repair, refund, or replacement under Minnesota's lemon law, the following requirements must be met:

  • You have contacted manufacturer and notified them in writing, mentioning lemon law.
  • You have given the manufacturer the opportunity to fix the problem or issue.
  • You have clearly stated to the manufacturer the lemon law circumstances and lets them know you plan to use the lemon law if the vehicle is not repaired.
  • Manufacturers' arbitration program has been attempted.

If you think you have a case under the Minnesota lemon law, you should keep all receipts and document your repair attempts and notifications to the manufacturer. You may also wish to retain an attorney to help prove your case.

You might also be interested in reading Minnesota's lemon law online.

Minnesota Lemon Law Attorneys

A lemon law attorney can offer help and advice in seeking a refund or replacement for a lemon in Minnesota. Having a lawyer on your side in a lemon law case can greatly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

Once you've decided you need to hire an attorney to help with your lemon law case, get started talking to multiple lawyers.

Consider the following questions during your search:

  • Experience. Does the lawyer have experience in lemon law or consumer protection cases specific to Minnesota?
  • References. Do you know someone who can connect you with a lawyer or recommend an attorney in the area?
  • Consultation. Will the attorney meet with you so that you can ask them questions and learn more about their experience?
  • Fees. How much will the attorney charge you? When do you have to pay? Does the lawyer need a retainer (up front payment)?

Choosing a lemon law attorney in your area can be challenging, but using the questions above can help you make the right decision.

Benefits of Lemon Law Attorneys

A Minnesota lemon law attorney may be able to help you at any point during your lemon law case. He or she can:

  • Negotiate with the manufacturer on your behalf.
  • Handle the entire court process for you.
  • Ensure you are compensated accordingly.

Having a lawyer who is experience in cases concerning the MN lemon law may be invaluable and save you thousands of dollars.

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