Massachusetts Lemon Law Overview

The Massachusetts Lemon Law protects consumers who buy or lease new or used vehicles that have substantial defects. It applies to new vehicles within the first year or 15,000 miles, and to used vehicles sold by dealers with fewer than 125,000 miles.

Key Features

  • Applies to both new and qualifying used vehicles
  • Coverage includes 1 year or 15,000 miles for new vehicles
  • Used vehicles must be sold by a dealer with a written warranty
  • Consumers must give the dealer/manufacturer opportunity to repair
  • Administered by the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

  • The issue occurred within 1 year or 15,000 miles (new cars)
  • The defect impairs use, market value, or safety
  • The dealer or manufacturer was given at least 3 attempts to repair the issue, or
  • The vehicle was out of service for 15+ business days
  • Used vehicles must be covered by a warranty under 125,000 miles

Important Timeframes

New Vehicle Coverage

Applies for 1 year or 15,000 miles — whichever comes first

Used Vehicle Coverage

Varies depending on mileage at time of sale — 30, 60, or 90 days of coverage under state law

Repair Attempts

  • At least 3 failed repair attempts, OR
  • Out of service for 15 or more business days

Note: 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 usage deduction based on mileage

Replacement

Comparable vehicle of equal value

Repair Order

Mandatory repair if repurchase or replacement is not ordered

Massachusetts Lemon Law Process

1. Document the Problem

  • Track all repairs, dates, and symptoms
  • Save all service records and communications

2. Notify Dealer/Manufacturer

  • Send written notice requesting repairs
  • Allow for a reasonable opportunity to fix the issue

3. File a Complaint

  • Submit your case to the MA Lemon Law Arbitration Program
  • Work with an attorney if your claim is denied

Massachusetts Lemon Law FAQs

Does the lemon law apply to used cars?

Yes, but only if the vehicle has fewer than 125,000 miles and was sold with a written warranty by a dealer.

Do I need to go through arbitration?

Massachusetts has an arbitration program, but you are not required to use it. You can go to court directly or after arbitration.

What if my repairs are not documented?

You must provide written evidence of your repair attempts to qualify. Always ask for a copy of service records.

How long do I have to file?

You should file your claim as soon as possible. New vehicle claims must be made within the first year or 15,000 miles.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Some brands are more likely to face repeated defects. Click below to learn more:

Toyota

Honda

Ford

View All

Need Massachusetts Lemon Law Help?

Our team helps Massachusetts consumers resolve lemon law cases and get compensated for defective vehicles. Contact us today for a free review.

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