Lemon Laws in General
A "lemon" is a new automobile that has a recurring problem or defect that the dealer is unable to correct after multiple attempts. Therefore, lemon laws offer protections for consumers who may otherwise be stuck with an inoperable or problematic vehicle. Generally, dealers and manufacturers have a set number of chances to fix a given defect before they must provide a remedy to the consumer. These laws don't protect buyers of used cars, although some states (not including North Carolina) have similar but less-robust protections for used car purchases as well.
North Carolina Lemon Laws at a Glance
North Carolina lemon laws are very similar to lemon laws in other states, in which the dealer must replace or refund a consumer if they are unable to remedy a major problem with an automobile within one year.
Learn more about North Carolina lemon laws in the following table. See FindLaw's Lemon Law section for additional articles and resources.
| Code Section | 20-351, et seq. |
| Title of Act | New Motor Vehicles Warranties Act |
| Definition of Defects | Nonconformity to all applicable express warranties which significantly affects the value of vehicle |
| Time Limit for Manufacturer Repair | For period of 1 year or term of express warranties, whichever is greater, following date of original delivery of vehicle to consumer; express warranties for a new motor vehicle shall remain in effect at least 1 year or 12,000 miles; can occur no later than 24 months or 24,000 miles following original delivery |
| Remedies | Consumer's option: replace with comparable new vehicle or accept return and refund full contract price, all collateral charges, all finance charges incurred since reporting nonconformity, and any incidental damages and monetary consequential damages, less reasonable allowance for consumer's use |
Note: State laws are subject to change at any time through the enactment of newly signed legislation, decisions from higher courts, and other means. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these pages, you also may want to contact a North Carolina lemon law attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
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North Carolina Lemon Laws: Related Resources
