Minnesota Lemon Law Overview
The Minnesota Lemon Law protects buyers or lessees of new vehicles that turn out to have significant defects. The law requires manufacturers to repair, replace, or refund vehicles that meet the definition of a lemon under Minnesota law.
Key Features
- Applies to new passenger vehicles purchased or leased in Minnesota
- Covers issues reported within 2 years or 24,000 miles
- Consumer must allow a reasonable number of repair attempts
- Written notice to the manufacturer is required
Qualification Requirements
Your Vehicle Qualifies If:
- The defect is reported within 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first)
- The defect substantially impairs the vehicle's use or market value
- There were at least 4 failed repair attempts for the same issue, or
- The vehicle was out of service for 30+ cumulative business days
- You notified the manufacturer in writing and gave a final chance to repair
Important Timeframes
Coverage Period
The lemon law covers problems that occur within the first 2 years or 24,000 miles.
Repair Attempts
- 4 or more attempts for the same defect, or
- 30 or more cumulative business days out of service
Final Opportunity Notice
You must send written notice to the manufacturer and allow them a final chance to fix the issue.
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 of the full purchase price minus usage fee
Replacement
A comparable new vehicle provided by the manufacturer
Minnesota Lemon Law Process
1. Document Everything
- Keep all repair orders, dates, and mileage
- Track any time the vehicle was out of service
2. Send Final Repair Request
- Send a certified letter to the manufacturer
- Allow a final attempt to fix the defect
3. File a Lemon Law Claim
- Work with an attorney to pursue compensation
- Arbitration or legal action may follow
Minnesota Lemon Law FAQs
Does Minnesota lemon law cover used vehicles?
No, the lemon law only applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in Minnesota.
What vehicles are covered?
Cars, pickup trucks, vans, and SUVs primarily used for personal purposes.
Is arbitration required?
Only if the manufacturer has a certified dispute resolution program. Otherwise, you can go to court.
Can leased vehicles qualify?
Yes, leased vehicles are covered under the same conditions as purchased vehicles.
Manufacturer-Specific Information
Need Minnesota Lemon Law Help?
If your car qualifies as a lemon in Minnesota, you may be entitled to compensation. We'll evaluate your case for free.