It’s only been a few months, and it feels like your brand new car has spent more time in the shop than out on the open road. All of a sudden you went from wondering just how fast she’d go to worried you might have a "lemon" on your hands. Lucky for you, the Nutmeg State has protections for new car buyers. Here is a basic overview of “lemon laws†in Connecticut.
State Lemon Laws
State lemon laws can offer some financial protections for new car owners who are stuck with a sputtering or even non-starting vehicle. Connecticut’s statutes look a lot like lemon laws in other states: the dealer must replace the car or refund the purchase price (and collateral charges) if the vehicle cannot be repaired within the first two years or 24,000 miles.
Lemon Laws in Connecticut
Lemon law statutes in Connecticut are highlighted in the chart below.
| Code Section | General Statutes of Connecticut Title 42-179, et seq.: New Automobile Warranties |
| Definition of Defects | Nonconformity to applicable express warranties which substantially impairs the use, safety, or value of motor vehicle |
| Time Limit for Manufacturer Repair | Repair defects covered by written warranties within 2 years following original delivery or first 24,000 miles, whichever is first |
| Remedies | Replace vehicle with new vehicle acceptable to consumer or refund (upon accepting return of vehicle) the (1) full contract price including but not limited to charges for undercoating, dealer prep, transportation, and installed options; (2) all collateral charges, including but not limited to sales tax, license and regulation fees, and similar government charges; (3) all finance charges after he first reports conformity and during any subsequent period vehicle is out of service due to repair; (4) all incidental damages, less a reasonable allowance for consumer's use |
Be aware that Connecticut’s lemon laws only apply to new, and not used, cars. Here are a few other lemon law guidelines:
Connecticut Lemon Laws: Related Resources
No one likes seeing their new car have old car problems. You can contact a Connecticut lemon law attorney if you would like legal assistance regarding a lemon law issue. You can also visit FindLaw's section on Lemon Law for more resources and information.
