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Illinois Lemon Law Overview
The Illinois Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease a new vehicle that develops serious defects early on. It is officially called the New Vehicle Buyer Protection Act and applies to new passenger cars and trucks purchased or leased in Illinois.
Key Features
- Covers new vehicles for 12 months or 12,000 miles
- Applies to cars, light trucks, and vans
- Does not apply to used vehicles or motorcycles
- Applies to leased vehicles
- Manufacturer must be given a final repair attempt
Qualification Requirements
Your Vehicle Qualifies If:
- The defect appears within 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first)
- The issue substantially impairs the use, value, or safety
- The manufacturer had at least 4 chances to repair the issue
- Or the vehicle was out of service for 30+ days for repairs
- You sent written notice giving the manufacturer a final repair opportunity
Important Timeframes
Coverage Period
The Illinois Lemon Law applies during the first 12 months or 12,000 miles of ownership or lease.
Repair Attempts
- At least 4 failed attempts to fix the same problem, or
- Vehicle has been in the shop 30+ cumulative days
Final Repair Notice
You must send the manufacturer a written notice and allow a final repair attempt before filing a claim.
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
Repurchase
Refund minus mileage-based usage fee
Replacement
A new vehicle of comparable value
Illinois Lemon Law Process
1. Document the Issues
- Track repairs, mileage, and downtime
- Save all invoices and repair orders
2. Send Final Repair Request
- Send a certified letter to the manufacturer
- Allow them one last chance to fix the issue
3. File a Claim
- Start a lemon law claim with help from an attorney
- You may pursue arbitration or litigation
Illinois Lemon Law FAQs
Does Illinois lemon law apply to used cars?
No. Illinois lemon law only covers new vehicles that meet the eligibility period.
What types of vehicles are covered?
Cars, vans, and light-duty trucks under 8,000 lbs GVWR. No motorcycles, RVs, or used vehicles.
Do I need to go through arbitration?
No, but arbitration may be faster and less costly than court. It's optional in Illinois.
How long do I have to file a claim?
You must file within 18 months of vehicle delivery, even if the repair attempts are still ongoing.
Manufacturer-Specific Information
Need Illinois Lemon Law Help?
Our team helps Illinois drivers get compensation when car dealers and manufacturers fail to fix serious defects. We'll review your case for free.