How to File a Lemon Law Claim in Ohio
Buying a new vehicle should be an exciting and stress-free experience, but unfortunately, that is not always the case. If you have purchased a new vehicle in Ohio and are experiencing persistent issues, your vehicle may be a lemon and you may be entitled to compensation under the Ohio Lemon Law.
Ohio’s Lemon Law exists to protect consumers who purchase vehicles with defects that affect their safety, operation, or value. At Ronald S. Weiss, Attorney at Law, we understand how frustrating and stressful it can be to deal with a new vehicle that doesn’t work as it should.
If you’re dealing with a persistent problem with your vehicle and believe it might qualify as a lemon, contact our firm today. Attorney Ron Weiss can guide you through how to file a claim and fight for the resolution you deserve.
Understanding Ohio Lemon Law
Under Ohio Revised Code, Section 1345.71 to 1345.78, Ohio's lemon law is designed to protect consumers who purchased or leased a vehicle with substantial defects. These defects must impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety, and they must occur within the first 12 months or 18,000 miles of vehicle use. Some common types of defects may include:
Mechanical defects: Problems with the engine, transmission, brake system, or other major components that affect the vehicle’s reliability.
Safety hazards: Defective airbags, seat belts, steering systems, or other features that compromise the safety of the vehicle.
Operational failures: Persistent electrical failures, malfunctioning sensors, or issues that prevent the vehicle from being used as intended.
If your vehicle experiences one or more of these major defects within the specified time frame, you may be eligible for compensation under Ohio's lemon law. The law typically applies to new leased or purchased vehicles, If your vehicle experienced an issue not listed above, you may still have a claim; that list was not intended to be exhaustive.
How to Determine if Your Vehicle Qualifies as a Lemon
If your newly purchased or leased vehicle has experienced a persistent issue that impacts it's drivability and safety, consult with our office as we can help you determine whether your vehicle qualifies as a lemon. To qualify as a lemon in Ohio, your vehicle must meet the following criteria:
Have a significant defect that is covered by the warranty that occurred within a specific period or after a number of miles traveled. In Ohio, the defect must have occurred within the first 12 months or 18,000 miles of use, whichever comes first; and
Have a substantial defect that can't be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts. In Ohio, this must include three or more repairs in an effort to fix the problem, eight repair attempts for various defects or one attempt to repair a defect that was likely to cause death or serious injury, or
Have spent 30 days or more at the dealership for repairs within the first year of purchase.
Once your attorney has determined whether your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, he can then help you document your claim and take the necessary steps to seek compensation, a repurchase or a replacement under Ohio lemon law.
Guidelines for Filing a Lemon Law Claim
At Ronald S. Weiss, Attorney & Counselor, our experienced attorney can guide you through filing a claim and help you explore your options.
Contact an experienced attorney: Ohio’s Lemon Law can be complicated. An attorney can help you evaluate your case and determine the best course of action, which can make a considerable difference in achieving a favorable outcome.
Review your vehicle’s warranty: Make sure your vehicle is still covered under the manufacturer’s express written warranty. The defect must fall within the warranty period for a lemon law claim to be valid.
Communicate with the manufacturer: With the help of your attorney, notify the manufacturer of the defect in writing and allow them the opportunity to resolve the problem. This step is often required under Ohio law before pursuing legal action.
Keep detailed records: Keep all your repair orders, invoices, and communication with the manufacturer or dealership related to your vehicle's defect. These documents will serve as critical evidence to support your claim.
Document the defect: Take notes on when the problem occurs, how often it happens, and how it impacts the vehicle’s usability or safety. If you can, take photographs or videos to help illustrate the issue.
File a complaint: If the defect persists after a number of repair attempts, you may need to file a formal complaint with the manufacturer. Your attorney will instruct you on how to file a complaint in compliance with Ohio law. Each case is different and it is important to consult with an attorney to review the specific facts of your situation.
Pursue a resolution: Once your claim is filed, Attorney Ronald S. Weiss will advocate tirelessly for a fair resolution. This might include demanding a replacement vehicle, a refund for your purchase, or compensation for the defect’s impact on your vehicle’s value.
Potential Compensation for an Ohio Lemon Law Claim
If your lemon law claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation or a remedy under Ohio law. Possible outcomes include:
Replacement vehicle: If your vehicle is a lemon, the manufacturer may be required to provide you with a replacement vehicle that is of comparable value and similar features.
Refund: Instead of receiving a replacement vehicle, you may be able to receive a refund for the purchase price of your defective vehicle. In Ohio, this will typically include any down payments, monthly payments, and taxes or fees associated with the purchase.
In addition to these options, Ohio law also grants compensation for any incidental damages caused by the defective vehicle. This can include costs such as towing fees, rental car costs, and repair expenses. If you are dealing with a lemon in Ohio, contact Attorney Ronald S. Weis today. Keep in mind, the manufacturer is responsible to pay reasonable attorney fees in successful claims. For this reason, we don't look to you for payment of a fee.
Contact an Experienced Lemon Law Attorney in Ohio Today
Dealing with a defective vehicle can be an overwhelming and exhausting experience, but you don't have to settle for your defective vehicle. At Ronald S. Weiss, Attorney and Counselor, we’re dedicated to protecting your rights under Ohio’s Lemon Law and helping you pursue the compensation or resolution you need.
If you suspect your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Conveniently located in Toledo, Ohio, we proudly serve clients throughout both Ohio and Michigan. Reach out to us now to start the process of resolving your lemon law claim.