Sure, we all like that new car smell, but what we really need from our cars is safety and dependability. And the last thing we want want from our new cars is problems that make it seem more like an old car. So what happens when your new ride is spending more time in the shop than out on the open road?
You may have what’s known as a "lemon" on your hands. Lucky for you the Land of Enchantment has legal protections if your new car has a habitual problem no repair shop can fix. This is a basic overview of “lemon laws†in New Mexico.
State Lemon Laws
As a general protection to consumers, lemon laws offer some financial and legal remedies for new car buyers, while also encouraging manufacturers and dealers to provide a reliable product. While some state lemon laws may only cover new car purchases, New Mexico’s law was recently updated to include used cars sold by a dealership. The New Mexico Attorney General’s Office also has helpful resources for buying a car.
Lemon Laws in New Mexico
New Mexico’s lemon law statutes are highlighted below.
| Code Section | |
| Title of Act | Motor Vehicle Quality Assurance Act |
| Definition of Defects | Nonconformity to all applicable express warranties which significantly affects the use or market value of vehicle |
| Time Limit for Manufacturer Repair | Term of express warranties or 1 year following date of original delivery, whichever is earlier |
| Remedies | Replace with comparable vehicle or accept return and refund full purchase price including all collateral charges, less a reasonable allowance for consumer's use of vehicle |
While state statutes can be confusing, there are some general lemon law guidelines to help you figure out if your new car is a lemon:
More Resources for New Mexico Lemon Laws
No one wants car trouble, especially trouble with a brand new car. And when determining which cars are covered, state lemon laws can be tough to navigate. For additional articles and resources on this topic you can visit FindLaw's section on Lemon Laws. If you would like legal assistance with a possible lemon law matter, you can consult with a New Mexico lemon law attorney.
