Iowa Lemon Law Overview

The Iowa Lemon Law (Iowa Code § 322G) protects consumers who purchase or lease a new vehicle that develops defects significantly affecting its safety, use, or value. The law outlines when a vehicle is considered a "lemon" and what remedies are available to consumers.

Key Features

  • Applies to new vehicles under 2 years old or 24,000 miles
  • Covers passenger vehicles, trucks, and motorcycles
  • Leased vehicles are included
  • Arbitration may be required before court action

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

  • The defect occurs within 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first)
  • The issue substantially impairs use, market value, or safety
  • The manufacturer has made 3+ unsuccessful repair attempts, or
  • The vehicle has been out of service for 20+ cumulative business days
  • You have notified the manufacturer in writing and given them a final chance to repair

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Defects must arise within 2 years or 24,000 miles of the vehicle's original delivery.

Repair Attempts

  • At least 3 attempts to repair the same problem, or
  • Vehicle is out of service for 20+ business days total

Final Repair Notice

You must send a certified letter to the manufacturer giving them 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 purchase price minus usage fee based on mileage

Replacement

Comparable new vehicle

Repairs

Manufacturer may be required to make additional repairs free of charge

Iowa Lemon Law Process

1. Track Issues

  • Keep all repair orders and service documentation
  • Note dates and mileage for each visit

2. Send Final Notice

  • Mail a certified letter to the manufacturer requesting one last repair attempt

3. File a Claim

  • Participate in arbitration if offered
  • If not resolved, you may file a lawsuit under Iowa's Lemon Law

Iowa Lemon Law FAQs

Does Iowa lemon law cover used cars?

No. It only applies to new vehicles. However, used vehicles may qualify under warranty or other consumer protection laws.

Can I skip arbitration?

Some manufacturers require arbitration before taking legal action. If offered, it's a step you must complete before filing a lawsuit.

Are motorcycles covered?

Yes. Iowa lemon law includes motorcycles, unlike many other states.

How long do I have to file a claim?

You must take action within the lemon law eligibility period or shortly after. It's best to act promptly after the final repair fails.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

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

Toyota

Honda

Ford

View All

Need Iowa Lemon Law Help?

If you're stuck with a lemon in Iowa, we can help you get compensation, a refund, or a replacement. Let's review your case for free.

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