What is the coverage period for North Carolina's lemon law?

North Carolina's lemon law covers defects that occur within 24 months or 24,000 miles of the vehicle's original delivery date, whichever comes first.

How many repair attempts are required in North Carolina?

Four or more repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for a cumulative total of 20 or more business days. For serious safety defects, fewer repair attempts may be required.

Does North Carolina require arbitration?

Yes, North Carolina requires consumers to first participate in the manufacturer's informal dispute resolution program if one exists before filing a lawsuit under the lemon law.

What vehicles are covered under North Carolina's lemon law?

New motor vehicles primarily designed for use on public streets, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles. The law also covers the chassis, chassis cab, and drivetrain of motor homes.

North Carolina Lemon Law Guide

North Carolina Lemon Law Overview

North Carolina's lemon law protects consumers who purchase or lease a new vehicle that turns out to be defective. The law, known as the New Motor Vehicles Warranties Act, requires manufacturers to repair, replace, or refund vehicles that meet specific conditions within the coverage period.

Key Features

Applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in North Carolina
Covers issues within 24 months or 24,000 miles
Requires at least 4 repair attempts or 20+ days out of service
Final repair opportunity must be given to the manufacturer
Does not apply to motorcycles, mopeds, or used vehicles

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect occurred within 24 months or 24,000 miles
The issue significantly impairs use, value, or safety
The manufacturer had at least 4 repair attempts, or
The vehicle was out of service for 20+ cumulative days
You provided written notice and a final repair opportunity

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Applies to problems reported within 24 months or 24,000 miles of delivery, whichever comes first.

Repair Attempts

4 repair attempts for the same issue, OR
20+ total days in the shop for repairs

Final Repair Opportunity

You must send a certified letter to the manufacturer giving 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 purchase price minus reasonable use deduction

Replacement

A new vehicle of equal value and similar features

North Carolina Lemon Law Process

1. Track the Problem

Keep detailed records of all repairs and service visits
Include mileage, dates, and issue descriptions

2. Send Final Repair Request

Send certified notice to the manufacturer
Allow one final repair attempt

3. Seek Resolution

Negotiate repurchase or replacement
If unresolved, file a lemon law claim in court

North Carolina Lemon Law FAQs

Does North Carolina lemon law cover used vehicles?

No. The law only applies to new vehicles under the original warranty.

How long do I have to act?

You must report the defect within 24 months or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.

What if the issue happened under warranty?

If the defect occurred under warranty—even outside the 24-month timeframe—you may still be eligible.

Is arbitration required?

North Carolina does not require arbitration, but some manufacturers offer it voluntarily. Legal action is allowed if unresolved.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Some automakers have a history of recurring issues. Learn more below:

Need North Carolina Lemon Law Help?

If your new car keeps having issues in North Carolina, our legal team can help. Let's find out if you qualify.

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North Carolina Lemon Law

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