LEMON LAW ATTORNEYS

When you buy or lease a new car, truck, van, or motorcycle, you have certain expectations—primarily, that it will work. If it doesn't, you’ve got a lemon, and you need to either get your money back or exchange it for a properly functioning vehicle. 

Attorney Ronald S. Weiss brings extensive experience and a thorough understanding of Ohio and Michigan’s lemon laws. Located in West Bloomfield, Michigan, and Toledo, Ohio, we handle cases throughout both states.  

With years of experience in handling automotive defect cases, we're committed to helping you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Whether you're seeking a refund, replacement, or repairs, we're here to guide you through the legal process and advocate on your behalf. 

Understanding Lemon Laws

Lemon laws are designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that turn out to be defective. Generally, this law dictates that if a car has significant defects that affect its use, safety, or value, the manufacturer must repair, replace, or buy back the vehicle. 

Is My Car a Lemon?

Many people think they have a lemon when their vehicle doesn't qualify. So, what makes a legitimate lemon law claim?  

To qualify as a lemon, generally, the car must: 

• Have a significant defect that is covered by the warranty that occurred within a specific period or after a number of miles traveled. 

• Have a substantial defect that can't be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts. 

• Have spent 30 days or more at the dealership for repairs within the first year of purchase. 

• If you are in Ohio, additional provisions include: 

• eight or more repairs in an effort to fix various problems; or 

• one attempt to repair a defect that was likely to cause death or serious injury. 

A substantial defect is one that affects the vehicle's use, safety, or value. This includes significant mechanical issues, safety defects, and other major problems that hinder the normal operation of the vehicle. 

Seeking Compensation if Your Vehicle Is a Lemon in Michigan or Ohio 

Theoretically, getting a refund for a defective car should be straightforward, but dealerships and manufacturers aren't always cooperative. Attorney Ron Weiss has successfully helped people in Michigan and Ohio get compensated for faulty vehicles since 1993, and he is highly knowledgeable about lemon law in both states. If your lemon law claim has been denied or if you need help filing a claim, reach out to Ron for a consultation.  

The Process of Filing a Lemon Law Claim in Ohio and Michigan

If you believe your vehicle is a lemon, it can be helpful to understand the process involved with filing a claim before proceeding with legal action.  

Confirm Your Eligibility

Ohio: 

• Coverage: New cars, motorcycles, and RVs that meet the following criteria: 

• Purchased/leased in Ohio 

• New when you received it 

• Less than five years old 

• Criteria: The vehicle must have a substantial defect that persists after three or more repair attempts, or be out of service for at least 30 days within the first year or 18,000 miles 

• OR - The vehicle has been subject to eight or more problems during the first Year/18,000 Miles 

• OR - The vehicle has been subject to repair for a non-conformity that could have caused death or serious bodily injury during the first year/18,000 miles 

Michigan: 

• Coverage: New passenger vehicles that meet the following criteria:  

• Purchased/leased in Michigan 

• New when you received it 

• Less than four years old 

• Criteria: The defect must substantially impair the vehicle’s use or value. The issue must persist after four or more repair attempts or if the vehicle is out of service for at least 30 days within the first two years 

Gather Documentation 

Collect and organize the following: 

• Purchase or lease agreement 

• Repair orders and receipts 

• Communication logs with the manufacturer and dealership 

• Records of all repair attempts, including dates and descriptions of defects 

Notify the Manufacturer 

Before escalating your claim, notify the manufacturer about the persistent defect. This step often involves sending a formal written notice outlining: 

• The nature of the defect 

• The number of repair attempts 

• The impact on the vehicle’s usability and value 

Allow a Final Repair Attempt 

Manufacturers are typically given one last chance to fix the problem after receiving your notification.  

• In Ohio, the manufacturer has a final opportunity to repair the defect within a reasonable timeframe. 

• In Michigan, similar provisions apply, with the manufacturer being allowed a final attempt to address the issue. 

Explore Arbitration Options 

Some states require consumers to participate in an arbitration program before filing a lawsuit. While not mandatory in Ohio and Michigan, arbitration can be a less adversarial route to resolve disputes. If you opt for arbitration: 

• Collect all relevant documentation  

• Present a clear and concise case to the arbitrator  

Consult an Experienced Lemon Law Attorney 

Given the complicated nature of lemon law claims, we highly recommend you consult with a legal professional. A lemon law attorney can: 

• Evaluate the strength of your claim 

• Assist with documentation and communication 

• Represent you in negotiations or court if necessary 

File Your Claim 

If the defect persists and the manufacturer fails to adequately address it, proceed with filing a lemon law claim. The process involves: 

• Drafting and filing a complaint with the appropriate court 

• Attending a hearing where both parties present their evidence 

Seek Remedies 

Based on the outcome of your case, potential remedies may include: 

• Replacement of the defective vehicle 

• Full or partial refund of the purchase price 

• Reimbursement for repair costs, towing, and rental fees 

For legal guidance and representation in your lemon law claim, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ron Weiss for cases in Ohio or Michigan. 

How Ron Weiss Can Help With Your Lemon Law Claim

With a deep understanding of state-specific regulations and a commitment to client satisfaction, Attorney Ron Weiss offers the knowledge and support needed to navigate the nuances of lemon law claims in Ohio and Michigan.

Located in West Bloomfield, Michigan, and Toledo, Ohio, we manage cases throughout both states. By trusting Ron with your lemon law claim, you gain professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated legal representation aimed at achieving the best possible outcome for your situation.