Idaho Lemon Law Overview

The Idaho Lemon Law, also known as the Motor Vehicle Warranties Act (Idaho Code § 48-901 et seq.), protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that develop defects that substantially impair the vehicle's use, value, or safety. The law mandates that manufacturers must repair or replace defective vehicles that qualify under the law.

Key Features

  • Applies to new vehicles only
  • Covers within 2 years or 24,000 miles
  • Consumer must report the defect and allow a final repair attempt
  • Leased vehicles are also covered

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

  • The defect occurs within 2 years or 24,000 miles
  • The problem impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle
  • The manufacturer has had at least 4 chances to repair the issue, OR
  • The vehicle has been out of service for 30+ calendar days
  • The consumer gave written notice and allowed a final repair attempt

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

The lemon law covers defects that occur within 2 years from delivery or 24,000 miles — whichever comes first.

Repair Attempts

  • At least 4 failed repair attempts OR
  • Vehicle out of service for 30 or more cumulative days

Final Repair Notice

Written notice must be sent to the manufacturer requesting one final 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 of the purchase price minus a reasonable usage fee

Replacement

A new vehicle of similar value

Repairs

Manufacturer completes the necessary repairs free of charge

Idaho Lemon Law Process

1. Keep Records

  • Track every repair attempt and related invoices
  • Log dates, mileage, and symptoms

2. Send Written Notice

  • Use certified mail to give the manufacturer a final chance to fix the issue
  • Include full repair history and explanation of the problem

3. File a Claim

  • If unresolved, file a lemon law claim or lawsuit
  • You may recover legal fees if you win

Idaho Lemon Law FAQs

Does Idaho lemon law cover used vehicles?

No, Idaho's law only covers new vehicles that meet the eligibility timeline and warranty coverage.

What's the deadline to act?

You generally have 2 years from delivery to report the defect and take action under Idaho lemon law.

Is arbitration required?

No. Arbitration is not mandatory but may be offered by the manufacturer as a quicker resolution option.

Are attorney's fees covered?

Yes, if you prevail, Idaho law allows you to recover reasonable attorney's fees and court costs.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

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

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