Oregon Lemon Law Overview

Oregon's lemon law protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that experience recurring, serious defects. Officially outlined in Oregon Revised Statutes §§ 646A.400 to 646A.418, it requires manufacturers to repair, replace, or refund defective vehicles that meet certain qualifications.

Key Features

  • Applies to new passenger vehicles and some leases
  • Protects within 2 years or 24,000 miles
  • Requires 3+ repair attempts or 30+ days in the shop
  • Applies to defects that impair use, value, or safety
  • Final repair notice must be given to the manufacturer

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

  • The issue occurred within 24 months or 24,000 miles
  • The defect significantly impairs use, value, or safety
  • The manufacturer had at least 3 chances to fix it, or
  • The vehicle was out of service for 30+ total days
  • You provided written notice and a final repair opportunity

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Oregon lemon law covers defects reported within 2 years or 24,000 miles after delivery.

Repair Attempts

  • 3 or more unsuccessful repairs for the same issue, OR
  • Vehicle in the shop 30 or more days

Final Repair Opportunity

You must notify the manufacturer in writing and allow one last chance to fix the defect.

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 comparable new vehicle of equal value

Repair Obligation

The manufacturer may be forced to complete the repair at no cost

Oregon Lemon Law Process

1. Document Everything

  • Track every repair visit, including invoices, work orders, and dates
  • Note symptoms, mileage, and service durations

2. Send Final Notice

  • Mail a certified letter to the manufacturer requesting a final repair attempt
  • Include documentation of prior issues

3. File a Claim

  • Work with an attorney to seek a repurchase or replacement
  • You may file in court or pursue arbitration if available

Oregon Lemon Law FAQs

Does Oregon lemon law cover used cars?

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

What if my vehicle is under warranty?

You may still qualify even if you're outside the time or mileage limits, as long as the issue occurred during the manufacturer's warranty period.

How many repair attempts are required?

3 failed repair attempts for the same problem, or 30 days out of service qualifies your vehicle.

Is arbitration required in Oregon?

Only if the manufacturer has a certified arbitration program. Otherwise, you can file directly in court.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Some manufacturers are known for recurring issues. Learn more about specific brands below:

Need Oregon Lemon Law Help?

If your new car has recurring problems in Oregon, our team is ready to fight for your rights. We'll review your case for free.