What is the time limit for Hawaii lemon law claims?

Claims must be filed within 2 years of the original delivery date or within the warranty period, whichever comes first.

Is arbitration required in Hawaii?

Yes, Hawaii requires consumers to first attempt resolution through the state-certified arbitration program before filing a lawsuit.

What qualifies as a reasonable repair attempt in Hawaii?

Three or more repair attempts for the same defect, or 30 or more cumulative business days out of service for any number of defects.

Does Hawaii's lemon law cover used vehicles?

No, Hawaii's lemon law only applies to new vehicles still under the manufacturer's warranty period.

Hawaii Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Hawaii Lemon Law Overview

The Hawaii Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that develop significant defects within a specific time or mileage window. Officially known as the Motor Vehicle Express Warranty Enforcement Act, the law covers new and some used vehicles under warranty.

Key Features

Applies to new and some used vehicles under warranty
Covers 2 years or 24,000 miles from delivery
Written notice to the manufacturer is required
Manufacturer must be given a final opportunity to repair
Leased vehicles are also covered

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect occurred within 2 years or 24,000 miles
The defect substantially impairs use, value, or safety
The manufacturer had 3+ repair attempts OR
The vehicle was out of service for 30+ days total
You gave the manufacturer a final chance to repair

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Hawaii's law applies for 2 years or 24,000 miles from the original delivery date.

Repair Attempts

3 failed attempts to fix the issue OR
Vehicle out of service for 30+ cumulative days

Final Repair Attempt

You must provide written notice and allow the manufacturer one last repair opportunity.

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

Vehicle of comparable value

Repairs

Manufacturer may be required to complete necessary repairs at no cost

Hawaii Lemon Law Process

1. Track Repairs

Document all visits, mileage, and dates
Keep copies of repair invoices

2. Notify Manufacturer

Send written notice requesting final repair
Use certified mail for tracking

3. File a Claim

File through arbitration or court
Hawaii law allows recovery of attorney's fees

Hawaii Lemon Law FAQs

Does Hawaii lemon law apply to used cars?

Yes, but only if the used car is still covered by the original manufacturer's warranty.

Is arbitration required?

Not required, but available. Many manufacturers offer arbitration programs certified by the state.

Can I recover legal costs?

Yes, if you win your case, the manufacturer may be required to pay your attorney's fees and court costs.

How long does the process take?

Varies by case, but many lemon law claims are resolved in a few months with proper documentation.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

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

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Hawaii Lemon Law

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