.svg)
English
Español
Florida Lemon Law Overview
The Florida Lemon Law, officially known as the Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act, helps consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that turn out to be defective. It provides legal protections and a state-run arbitration program to resolve disputes before going to court.
Key Features
- Applies to new and demonstrator vehicles
- Administered by the Florida Attorney General's Office
- Mandatory arbitration before filing a lawsuit
- No filing fee for consumers
- Covers two years from the date of delivery
Qualification Requirements
Your Vehicle Qualifies If:
- The defect occurred within 24 months of delivery
- The defect substantially impairs the use, value, or safety
- You gave the manufacturer at least 3 chances to repair the same issue
- Or your vehicle was out of service for 15+ days total for repairs
- You sent written notice to the manufacturer after initial repair attempts
Important Timeframes
24-Month Protection
Florida lemon law applies for 24 months from the date you received the vehicle (not the warranty length).
Repair Attempts
- 3 failed repair attempts for the same issue, or
- 15 or more total days in the shop
Final Opportunity to Fix
You must notify the manufacturer in writing and give them a final repair attempt before proceeding to arbitration.
Note: If the manufacturer fails to respond within 10 days of your final repair notice, or if the issue remains after that final attempt, you may file for arbitration through Florida's Lemon Law Arbitration Board.
Good to Know
If your vehicle is still under the original manufacturer's warranty, you still may be eligible for lemon law protection—even if you're outside the typical mileage or time limits. Talk to a lemon law attorney to find out your rights.
Available Remedies
Vehicle Repurchase
Refund minus usage fee (based on mileage)
Vehicle Replacement
New vehicle of comparable value
Arbitration Order
State-appointed panel may order the manufacturer to comply
Florida Lemon Law Process
1. Document the Problem
- Track all repair visits, dates, mileage, and symptoms
- Get repair orders signed and dated
2. Notify the Manufacturer
- Send a certified letter requesting a final repair
- Include a summary of previous repairs
3. File for Arbitration
- Use the state-run arbitration program (free)
- Submit application and supporting documents
- Attend the hearing and present your case
Florida Lemon Law FAQs
Does Florida lemon law cover used vehicles?
No. It only covers new and demonstrator vehicles purchased or leased in Florida within the last 24 months.
Do I have to go through arbitration first?
Yes. Florida law requires consumers to complete the state's arbitration process before filing a lemon law lawsuit.
What happens if I win my arbitration?
The manufacturer may be ordered to refund, replace, or repair your vehicle. Most decisions are binding, and the manufacturer must comply.
What if the manufacturer refuses to comply?
You can then take legal action in court, and your arbitration decision may support your claim for additional damages or attorney's fees.
Manufacturer-Specific Information
Need Help With Florida Lemon Law?
Our team helps Florida drivers navigate lemon law cases and arbitration with confidence. Reach out today for a free case review.