Delaware Lemon Law Overview

The Delaware Lemon Law provides protection for consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that develop defects within the first year. It requires manufacturers to replace or refund vehicles that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts.

Key Features

  • Applies to new passenger vehicles and leased vehicles
  • Coverage period is 1 year from delivery or during manufacturer's warranty
  • At least 4 repair attempts or 30 days out of service
  • Manufacturer must be notified of final opportunity to repair
  • Provides refund or replacement if criteria are met

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

  • The defect occurs within 1 year of delivery or warranty period
  • The issue impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle
  • There are 4+ failed repair attempts, or
  • The vehicle is out of service for 30+ total days
  • You gave the manufacturer written notice and a final chance to repair

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Covers defects occurring within 1 year after delivery or during the manufacturer's express warranty period, whichever is longer.

Repair Attempts

  • 4 or more attempts to fix the same issue, OR
  • 30+ days in the shop (not necessarily consecutive)

Final Repair Notice

Written notice must be sent to the manufacturer to allow one final repair opportunity before filing a claim.

Note: Still under warranty? Even if you're outside the typical one-year window, you may still qualify for lemon law protection if the problem began during the manufacturer's warranty. It's worth getting a free case review.

Available Remedies

Repurchase

Refund of purchase price minus mileage offset

Replacement

Vehicle of comparable value and features

Repair Completion

In some cases, the manufacturer may complete repairs at no charge

Delaware Lemon Law Process

1. Document the Problem

  • Save all repair records, invoices, and communications
  • Track mileage and time out of service

2. Notify the Manufacturer

  • Send a certified letter requesting a final repair opportunity
  • Include details of the problem and past repairs

3. File a Lemon Law Claim

  • If the issue is unresolved, file a claim in court or consider arbitration
  • Attorney fees may be recoverable if you win

Delaware Lemon Law FAQs

Does Delaware lemon law cover leased vehicles?

Yes, leased vehicles are covered as long as they were leased new and registered in Delaware.

What if I missed the 1-year deadline?

You may still qualify if the defect occurred during the manufacturer's warranty period. Always consult an attorney to confirm.

Is arbitration required in Delaware?

No, arbitration is not mandatory but may be available depending on the manufacturer's policy.

How long does the process take?

It depends, but many cases resolve in a few months. Having documentation and legal support speeds up the process.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

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

Toyota

Honda

Ford

View All

Need Delaware Lemon Law Help?

Our attorneys help Delaware drivers get justice under lemon law. We offer free consultations and only get paid if you win.

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Citations

Source: Delaware Code Title 6, Chapter 50 – Automobile Warranties