What is the coverage period for Rhode Island's lemon law?

Rhode Island's lemon law covers defects that occur within one year from the vehicle's delivery date or within the term of the manufacturer's warranty, whichever is shorter.

How many repair attempts are required in Rhode Island?

Four 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, only one repair attempt may be required.

Does Rhode Island require arbitration?

Yes, Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island's lemon law unique?

Rhode Island's law includes specific provisions for leased vehicles and provides clear guidelines for manufacturer compliance. The state also offers strong consumer protection measures and includes provisions for recovering attorney fees.

Rhode Island Lemon Law Guide

Rhode Island Lemon Law Overview

Rhode Island's Lemon Law, officially known as the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Law, provides protection to consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles with serious defects. If your vehicle cannot be repaired after multiple attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement or refund.

Key Features

Covers new vehicles for 1 year or 15,000 miles
Applies to personal and household vehicles
Requires 4 repair attempts or 30+ days out of service
Mandatory arbitration program available

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect occurs within 1 year or 15,000 miles of delivery
The issue substantially impairs use, safety, or value
The manufacturer had 4 or more chances to repair OR
The vehicle was out of service for 30+ cumulative days

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

1 year or 15,000 miles from delivery, whichever comes first

Repair Attempts

4 or more unsuccessful repair attempts OR
Vehicle out of service for 30+ days

Filing Deadline

Must file a claim within 1 year after the express warranty expires

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 usage offset

Replacement

Similar vehicle of comparable value

Arbitration

Mandatory arbitration program through the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office

Rhode Island Lemon Law Process

1. Document the Problem

Keep all repair records and service reports
Track days in the shop and recurring issues

2. Use Arbitration

Submit your case to the state-run arbitration program
Provide documentation and attend the hearing

3. Seek Legal Help if Needed

If arbitration fails, consider legal action
You may be entitled to attorney's fees if you win

Rhode Island Lemon Law FAQs

Does Rhode Island Lemon Law cover used cars?

No, the law only applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in Rhode Island.

Can leased vehicles qualify?

Yes, leased vehicles are eligible if all other conditions are met.

Is arbitration required?

Yes, consumers must use the state-run arbitration program before taking legal action.

How long do I have to file?

You must file within 1 year after the manufacturer's express warranty expires.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

We handle lemon law claims involving all major automakers:

Need Rhode Island Lemon Law Help?

If you've purchased a defective new vehicle in Rhode Island, we can help. Contact our team for a free evaluation today.

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Rhode Island Lemon Law

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