Alaska Lemon Law Overview
Alaska's Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease a new vehicle that has a substantial defect that the manufacturer cannot repair. The law applies to vehicles under warranty and provides remedies like replacement or repurchase.
Key Features
- Applies to new vehicles under manufacturer warranty
- Includes leased vehicles
- Does not apply to motorcycles or used vehicles
- Manufacturer gets final repair attempt after notice
Qualification Requirements
Your Vehicle Qualifies If:
- The defect occurred within 12 months of delivery or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first)
- The issue substantially impairs the vehicle's use or value
- The manufacturer had at least 3 chances to fix it, or
- The vehicle was out of service for 30+ days total
- You gave written notice and allowed a final repair opportunity
Important Timeframes
Coverage Period
Applies within 12 months of delivery or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Repair Attempts
- 3 or more attempts to fix the same issue, OR
- 30+ days in the shop total
Final Repair Opportunity
Written notice must be given to the manufacturer, who then gets a final chance to fix the issue.
Note: Still under warranty? Even if you're outside the usual mileage or time limits, you may still qualify for lemon law protection if the issue occurred during the manufacturer's warranty period. It's worth getting a free case review.
Available Remedies
Repurchase
Refund minus mileage-based usage fee
Replacement
New comparable vehicle
Alaska Lemon Law Process
1. Keep Documentation
- Maintain repair records, invoices, and dates
- Log vehicle downtime and communication
2. Notify the Manufacturer
- Send written notice via certified mail
- Include defect details and repair history
3. File a Claim
- Start a lemon law claim or seek arbitration
- You may also work with an attorney to sue the manufacturer
Alaska Lemon Law FAQs
Does Alaska lemon law apply to used vehicles?
No, it only applies to new vehicles sold or leased in Alaska under the original warranty.
Do I need to go through arbitration?
Arbitration is optional unless the manufacturer requires it as part of their resolution process.
How long do I have to file a claim?
You must bring your claim within one year of the vehicle's delivery or the end of the warranty — whichever is later.
Are leased vehicles covered?
Yes, as long as the lease was executed in Alaska and the vehicle meets all other criteria.
Manufacturer-Specific Information
Need Alaska Lemon Law Help?
If your vehicle has ongoing issues and you're getting nowhere with the manufacturer, we can help. Contact our team for a free consultation.