Missouri Lemon Law Overview

Missouri's lemon law applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in the state that experience nonconformities impairing their use, value, or safety. It requires manufacturers to repair, replace, or repurchase vehicles that can't be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts.

Key Features

  • Applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in Missouri
  • Covers defects within 1 year or the warranty period, whichever is earlier
  • Only applies to vehicles primarily used for personal or family purposes
  • Does not apply to used vehicles
  • Consumer must go through the manufacturer's informal dispute process first (if available)

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

  • The problem occurs within one year or the manufacturer's warranty period (whichever is earlier)
  • The issue impairs use, value, or safety
  • The manufacturer has had at least 4 chances to fix the issue, or
  • The vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more business days
  • You attempted to resolve the issue through the manufacturer's dispute program (if one exists)

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

The defect must arise within 1 year of delivery or during the manufacturer's warranty period—whichever comes first.

Repair Attempts

  • At least 4 unsuccessful repairs, OR
  • 30+ total business days out of service

Dispute Resolution

You must attempt to resolve your issue through the manufacturer's informal dispute process if they offer one.

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

Full refund minus reasonable usage deduction based on mileage

Replacement

New vehicle of the same or similar model and value

Missouri Lemon Law Process

1. Document the Problem

  • Save all repair receipts and records
  • Log mileage and dates of service

2. Go Through Manufacturer Dispute Resolution

  • If your manufacturer offers arbitration, you must participate first

3. File a Claim

  • If the issue is still unresolved, pursue a lemon law claim with an attorney

Missouri Lemon Law FAQs

Does Missouri lemon law cover used cars?

No, it only applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in Missouri.

Are leased cars included?

Yes, as long as the vehicle is new and leased in Missouri.

Is arbitration required?

Yes, if the manufacturer has an approved informal dispute resolution process, you must use it first.

How long do I have to act?

You must report the issue within one year or the warranty period, whichever is earlier. Take action as soon as you notice the issue.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Some manufacturers are known for common issues that may qualify under lemon law:

Need Missouri Lemon Law Help?

If your new vehicle in Missouri qualifies as a lemon, our legal team can help you fight back. Get a free consultation and see what your case is worth.