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

South Carolina's lemon law covers defects that occur within one year following the vehicle's delivery date or within the manufacturer's express warranty period, whichever is earlier.

How many repair attempts are required in South Carolina?

Three or more repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for 30 or more business days. For serious safety defects, fewer repair attempts may be required.

Does South Carolina require arbitration?

Yes, South 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 South Carolina's lemon law?

New motor vehicles primarily designed for personal, family, or household use, including cars, trucks, and SUVs. The law also covers the self-propelled vehicle portion of motor homes.

South Carolina Lemon Law Guide

South Carolina Lemon Law Overview

South Carolina's Lemon Law helps consumers who purchase new vehicles that turn out to be defective and can't be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. The law covers new passenger vehicles bought in the state and protects consumers by requiring manufacturers to repair, replace, or refund qualifying lemons.

Key Features

Applies to new vehicles purchased in South Carolina
Covers defects within 12 months or 12,000 miles
Manufacturer has 3 or more repair attempts
Mandatory arbitration before court action

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect occurs within 12 months or 12,000 miles
The issue substantially impairs the use, market value, or safety
The manufacturer has made 3+ unsuccessful repair attempts, OR
The vehicle is out of service for 30+ cumulative days

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Defect must occur within 12 months or 12,000 miles of delivery

Repair Attempts

3 or more unsuccessful attempts OR
30+ days out of service for repairs

Filing Deadline

Generally within 3 years of vehicle delivery or during the express warranty

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 allowance for use

Replacement

Comparable new vehicle

Arbitration

Required dispute resolution before court action

South Carolina Lemon Law Process

1. Track Repairs

Document every visit, mileage, and issue
Keep copies of all repair orders and communication

2. Request Arbitration

Use the manufacturer's arbitration program
File a complaint with supporting evidence

3. Take Legal Action if Necessary

If arbitration fails, consult with a lemon law attorney
Attorney's fees may be recoverable if you win

South Carolina Lemon Law FAQs

Does South Carolina Lemon Law cover used vehicles?

No, the law applies only to new vehicles under warranty at the time of the defect.

Is arbitration required?

Yes, consumers must attempt arbitration with the manufacturer before filing a lawsuit.

Can I recover legal fees?

Yes, if you prevail in court, the manufacturer may be required to cover attorney fees.

Does the law apply to leased vehicles?

Yes, leased new vehicles are also protected under South Carolina Lemon Law.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

We pursue lemon law claims against all major automakers:

Need South Carolina Lemon Law Help?

If your new vehicle is defective and hasn't been fixed properly, we can help. Get a free evaluation today and know your rights.

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South Carolina Lemon Law

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