What is the coverage period for Ohio's lemon law?

Ohio's lemon law covers defects that occur within one year from the delivery date or within the manufacturer's warranty period, whichever is earlier. Claims must be filed within 5 years of the delivery date.

How many repair attempts are required in Ohio?

Three or more repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for 30 or more calendar days. For serious safety defects that could cause death or serious injury, only one repair attempt may be required.

Does Ohio require arbitration?

Yes, Ohio 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 makes Ohio's lemon law unique?

Ohio has a longer statute of limitations (5 years) than many other states, and its law specifically includes demonstrator vehicles. The state also provides clear guidelines for calculating reasonable allowance for vehicle use.

Ohio Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Ohio Lemon Law Overview

Ohio's lemon law offers protections for consumers who buy or lease new vehicles that experience defects early in ownership. The law helps ensure that buyers get a refund, replacement, or repairs if their vehicle meets certain conditions and the issue substantially impairs the use, safety, or value.

Key Features

Applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in Ohio
Coverage period: 12 months or 18,000 miles
Applies to passenger vehicles and light trucks
Consumer must give the manufacturer a final repair attempt
Ohio Attorney General enforces the law

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect arose within 1 year or 18,000 miles
The issue impairs use, value, or safety of the vehicle
There were 3+ attempts for the same issue, OR
The vehicle was out of service for 30+ days, OR
1 unsuccessful attempt to repair a life-threatening defect
You sent written notice to the manufacturer allowing a final repair attempt

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Defects must occur within the first 12 months or 18,000 miles of vehicle delivery (whichever comes first).

Repair Attempts

3 or more attempts for the same issue
1 failed repair attempt for a serious safety issue
30+ cumulative days in the shop

Final Repair Opportunity

Before taking legal action, you must notify the manufacturer and give 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

Vehicle Repurchase

Full refund minus a reasonable usage fee

Vehicle Replacement

New comparable vehicle from the same manufacturer

Manufacturer Repairs

Mandatory repairs at no cost to consumer

Ohio Lemon Law Process

1. Track Issues

Document all repairs and dates
Keep mileage logs and communication records

2. Notify the Manufacturer

Send a certified letter requesting a final repair
Include your repair history and issue description

3. Seek Legal Help

File a lemon law claim or lawsuit if unresolved
You may be entitled to attorney's fees if successful

Ohio Lemon Law FAQs

Does Ohio Lemon Law cover used cars?

No. The law only applies to new vehicles during the 12-month/18,000-mile coverage period.

Do I have to go through arbitration?

Only if the manufacturer offers a certified arbitration program. Otherwise, you may go straight to court.

How do I file a lemon law claim in Ohio?

You can file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General or hire a lemon law attorney to pursue a private claim.

Are leased vehicles covered?

Yes. Leased new vehicles are eligible under Ohio lemon law.

Need Ohio Lemon Law Help?

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