Every state has a set of consumer protection bylaws to protect citizens from falling victim to fraudulent sales practices and scams- particularly in auto sales. Lemon Law protection falls under the following categories- Conditions under which goods are sold (physical and working), and the atmosphere surrounding a sale (pitch and tactics). Consumers have rights which include the power to purchase- motorcycles, boats, passenger vehicles, and RVs (Recreational Vehicles). Consumer laws vary between states, so make sure that you are well informed of your rights as a consumer before making an expensive purchase. Basically, a Lemon Law consists of the following rules and guidelines- Guarantees to the consumer that the vehicle is within reasonable operating condition (void of cosmetic defects), Mechanical functionality, and any Conditional sales warranties or guarantees. Guarantees of Reasonable Operating Condition Regardless of the vehicle’s cosmetic nature, consumers have the right to assume sound purchase. This means that the vehicle must be in reasonable operating condition, and will not fail the consumer once property possession is transferred over. For example, you’ve recently purchased an older model vehicle which, at the time of purchase, drove smoothly when you took it for a test drive. Several days later, the transmission burns up and you’re stuck with an expensive repair bill- on top of the money that you’ve just spent to purchase the vehicle. Under Lemon Laws, you have the right to reclaim all, if not a portion, of your purchase money if the seller of the vehicle didn’t inform you of any possible mechanical malfunctions. Check the Lemon Laws for the state in which you made the purchase, since this will be the governing body that presides over your request for purchase money back. Mechanical Functionality In order to satisfy a purchase, an agreement must be established and documented between the vehicle seller and buyer. Some states require that the vehicle must satisfy minimal requirements before operating on public roads; this is to ensure the safety of not only the driver and passengers of the vehicle, but also the safety of other traveling vehicles as well. Usually this includes the satisfaction of DMV inspection and requirements for vehicle licensing and operation. If for any reason the seller of your vehicle did not express any thoughts or information implying that you will be unable to meet the minimal requirements in order to register your vehicle- then your purchase should be protected under Lemon Laws. Expressed Warranties as a Condition of Sale If you purchased a vehicle, and your seller agrees to warrant his guarantee that the vehicle will not fail satisfactory operating condition from the sale date, then you are in good shape. However, take heed that all guaranties and warranties have time limitations, so be sure to communicate all concerns and issues (vehicle related) to the seller’s attention, and keep documentation as proof of communication. If your vehicle fails to withstand the warranty period, and the seller neglects to remedy the problem under the terms and conditions of warranty or guarantee, you should be covered under the Lemon Law. Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil
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