What vehicles are covered under Colorado's lemon law?

Colorado's lemon law covers new motor vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs, purchased for personal, family, or household use. The law applies during the first year after delivery or within the manufacturer's warranty period, whichever is shorter.

How many repair attempts are required in Colorado?

In Colorado, you must allow the manufacturer at least 4 repair attempts for the same problem, or the vehicle must be out of service for a total of 30 business days. For serious safety defects, fewer repair attempts may be required.

What remedies are available under Colorado's lemon law?

If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you're entitled to either a replacement vehicle of comparable value or a refund of the purchase price, minus a reasonable allowance for your use of the vehicle.

What documentation do I need for a Colorado lemon law claim?

Keep all repair orders, correspondence with the manufacturer/dealer, and purchase documents. Colorado requires written notification to the manufacturer about the defect and a final opportunity to repair before pursuing a claim.

Colorado Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Colorado Lemon Law Overview

Colorado's Lemon Law provides protections for consumers who purchase or lease a new vehicle that turns out to be defective. Officially part of the Colorado Motor Vehicle Warranty Act, the law requires manufacturers to repair or replace defective vehicles that meet the law's criteria.

Key Features

Applies to new vehicles (not used cars)
Coverage applies for 1 year following delivery
Vehicle must have a defect that substantially impairs its use or market value
Written notice to the manufacturer is required
Consumer must allow a final repair attempt

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect occurred within 1 year of delivery
The defect significantly impairs use or market value
The manufacturer had 4+ repair attempts, or
The vehicle was out of service for 30+ days total
You provided written notice and a final opportunity to fix the defect

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Applies within 1 year of vehicle delivery regardless of mileage.

Repair Attempts

4 or more unsuccessful repair attempts for the same issue, or
30 or more cumulative days in the shop

Final Notice

You must send a certified letter to the manufacturer requesting a final opportunity to repair the defect.

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

Full refund minus a usage fee based on mileage

Replacement

New comparable vehicle

Repair Order

Manufacturer may be required to complete repairs at no cost

Colorado Lemon Law Process

1. Track the Defects

Save repair orders, dates, and notes on symptoms
Get everything documented in writing

2. Notify the Manufacturer

Send written notice via certified mail
Allow a final repair opportunity

3. File a Claim

Work with a lemon law attorney to pursue a refund or replacement
Colorado law allows recovery of attorney's fees if you win

Colorado Lemon Law FAQs

Does Colorado lemon law apply to used vehicles?

No. The law only applies to new vehicles sold or leased in Colorado.

Do I have to go through arbitration?

Not necessarily. If your manufacturer offers a certified arbitration program, you may need to complete it before filing suit. Otherwise, you can pursue legal action directly.

What vehicles are covered?

Passenger vehicles, SUVs, and light trucks used primarily for personal purposes are covered.

Can leased vehicles qualify?

Yes. Leased vehicles are covered as long as they meet the same criteria.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Learn more about common defects and how lemon law applies to these manufacturers:

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Colorado Lemon Law

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