Nashville Lemon Law
Buying a new car should be an exciting and rewarding experience, but this excitement can become a frustrating ordeal for many Nashville residents. The good news is that Tennessee has lemon law protections in place to protect consumers from purchasing or leasing vehicles that cannot be properly repaired.
If your vehicle meets the following qualifications, you may be entitled to a full refund or a replacement vehicle:
- The dealer has made an unreasonable number of repair attempts to fix the vehicle, which were unsuccessful.
- The defect occurred within the first year of ownership.
- Your vehicle has been out of service for repairs for 30 or more cumulative days.
If your vehicle meets these conditions, you may be eligible to file a claim under Tennessee's lemon law for a refund or replacement vehicle.
The law applies to new motor vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles purchased or leased in Oklahoma.
The issue must arise during the manufacturer's express warranty period.
The vehicle must have a defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety and that is not caused by owner negligence, unauthorized modifications, or misuse.
The manufacturer must have at least four opportunities to repair the issue, or the vehicle must be out of service for a cumulative 30 days.
The defect must be reported to the manufacturer within one year from the date of delivery or within the term of the warranty, whichever is sooner.
Does Your Vehicle Qualify for Lemon Law in Tennessee?
Tennessee's lemon law may apply to your vehicle if it has a serious defect that affects its safety, value, or overall usability-and the manufacturer hasn't fixed the issue after multiple repair attempts. To be considered a "lemon" under state law, your vehicle must meet the following requirements:
- It was purchased or leased brand new (not pre-owned) in TN.
- The issue arose within the first 12 months of ownership.
- The vehicle is primarily used for personal, family, or household transportation.
It's important to have thorough documentation of all repairs and communications to support your lemon law claim and potentially receive a replacement vehicle or a full refund.
Watch Attorney Emma Robison explain Tennessee's Lemon Law:
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At Robison Lemon Law Group, we offer free consultations to Tennesseans dealing with the frustration of defective vehicles. Our seasoned lemon law experts are ready to dive into the details of your case and help you determine if your vehicle qualifies for a refund or replacement under Tennessee's lemon law.
Don't let a faulty car disrupt your life. Contact us now, and let's explore your options for getting the compensation you deserve!
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Request a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. Our Lemon Law attorneys will strategically evaluate your situation and recommend the best course of action.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Tennessee Lemon Law?
In Tennessee, you have six months after the express warranty expires or one year after the original date of delivery, whichever is later. This means time is of the essence-delays can jeopardize your right to compensation.
As soon as you discover a defect in your vehicle, consult with an experienced lemon law attorney who can guide you through the process, from seeking repairs to taking the necessary steps for a potential refund or replacement. Don't wait-protect your rights now!
How Many Repair Attempts Are "Unreasonable" Under Tennessee Lemon Law?
In Tennessee, the law defines an "unreasonable" number of repair attempts as follows:
- Three or more attempts to fix the same defect, and it continues to exist.
- The defect must significantly impact your vehicle's safety, value, or use.
- The vehicle must have been out of service for a total of 30 days or more due to repairs.
If your vehicle meets these conditions, you could be entitled to a full refund or replacement under Tennessee's Lemon Law.
Common Defects That Lead to Lemon Law Complaints in Tennessee
In Tennessee, certain defects tend to trigger lemon law complaints, often leaving car owners frustrated and stuck with a vehicle that just won't perform. Some of the most common issues include (but are not limited to):
- Engine Problems
- Electrical Failures
- Transmission Troubles
- Fuel System Defects
- Airbag Malfunctions
- Steering or Brake Failures
These defects don't just cause inconvenience-they can seriously jeopardize your vehicle's safety and performance. If your car is plagued by any of these issues and no number of repairs has fixed the problem, it could be time to consider your vehicle as a lemon under Tennessee's lemon law.
Does Tennessee Lemon Law Apply to Used Vehicles?
Tennessee's Lemon Law doesn't extend to used vehicles. However, you may still have options.
If your used vehicle is still under the manufacturer's warranty, it could be protected under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a powerful federal law that offers you additional recourse. Reach out to a knowledgeable Tennessee lemon law attorney today to explore how this law could work in your favor and get the compensation you deserve!
How Does the Tennessee Lemon Law Process Work?
Not every issue with your vehicle automatically means it's a "lemon" under Tennessee law, but don't worry - the process is straightforward if you follow these steps to get the compensation you deserve.
- Report the Defect to the Dealer or Manufacturer
The clock starts ticking as soon as you identify a defect. Reach out to the dealership or manufacturer and report the issue. Make sure to keep copies of everything for your records, and document key details like when the defect appeared, its nature, and the repair orders. - Give the Manufacturer a Fair Chance to Fix It
The manufacturer must be given a reasonable opportunity to repair the defect (typically at least three attempts), and the defect continues. If your vehicle has been out of service for repairs for 30+ cumulative days, you might have a strong lemon law case on your hands. - Request a Refund or Replacement Vehicle
If your vehicle's issues remain unresolved after being subjected to an unreasonable number of attempts, it's time to take the next step. You can formally request either a full refund or a replacement vehicle. Let an experienced lemon law attorney guide you through this phase to confirm your claim is solid. - Take Legal Action if Necessary
If the dealer or manufacturer refuses to offer a fair settlement, it may be time to take legal action. You have the right to file a lawsuit under Tennessee's lemon law, and an attorney will be your strongest ally in securing the compensation you deserve.
The Role of a Lemon Law Lawyer in Tennessee
While dealing with the lemon law process on your own is possible, having a seasoned attorney by your side can dramatically increase your chances of success.
Manufacturers often start with lowball offers, hoping you'll settle for less. That's where an experienced Tennessee lemon law lawyer comes in-armed with the knowledge to fight back and negotiate the settlement you deserve.
And if your case ends up in court? No problem. Your attorney will handle the legal complexities and ensure you're fully represented, fighting for every penny you're owed.
How Much Do Tennessee Lemon Law Lawyers Charge?
When working with a Tennessee lemon law lawyer, you'll typically pay nothing upfront. Lawyers fees (including ours) and court costs are covered by the manufacturer if you win the case. This means you can hire the most reputable lemon law lawyer in Nashville without worrying about the expenses.
What Damages Could You Recover in a Lemon Claim in Tennessee?
If your lemon law case is successful, you could recover various types of compensation in the state of Tennessee, including:
- A Full Refund: You'll get back the purchase price of your vehicle (minus a mileage deduction). This also includes taxes, fees, and any other related costs.
- A Replacement Vehicle: You could opt for a replacement car of equal or greater MSRP. If you choose a replacement vehicle with a higher MSRP, you will be responsible for paying the difference.
- Reimbursement for Incidental Costs: You may be compensated for expenses like towing, rental cars, and any other costs caused by the defect.
- Legal Fees: If your case is successful, the manufacturer is responsible for covering your attorney fees and court costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact a Tennessee Lemon Law Lawyer Today
If you think your vehicle might qualify for a lemon law claim, don't wait. The quicker you get the process started, the stronger your chances for a positive resolution.
Get in touch with one of our Tennessee lemon law experts for a free consultation and learn how you can pursue compensation, whether it's a refund, replacement vehicle, or other damages.
Don't let a defective car continue to disrupt your life-take control and get the compensation you deserve!
Lemon Car Buyback & Refund Calculator
Use the calculator below to calculate an estimate for the amount you may be entitled to in the case of a repurchase.