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

South Dakota'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 Dakota?

Four 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, only one repair attempt may be required.

Does South Dakota require arbitration?

Yes, South Dakota 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 Dakota's lemon law?

New motor vehicles primarily designed for personal, family, or household use, including cars, trucks, and SUVs. The law also covers the chassis and drivetrain of motor homes.

South Dakota Lemon Law Guide

South Dakota Lemon Law Overview

South Dakota's Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that turn out to be defective and cannot be adequately repaired. The law ensures that eligible consumers can receive a refund or replacement vehicle if the manufacturer fails to fix the issue after a reasonable number of attempts.

Key Features

Applies to new vehicles sold in South Dakota
Protects consumers within 1 year or 12,000 miles
Applies to leased and purchased vehicles
Requires 4 or more repair attempts or 30+ days out of service

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect occurs within 1 year or 12,000 miles
The issue substantially impairs the use, value, or safety
There have been at least 4 repair attempts for the same issue, OR
The vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more total days

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

The Lemon Law applies within 1 year or 12,000 miles of the vehicle's delivery, whichever comes first.

Repair Attempts

4 or more unsuccessful repair attempts for the same issue, OR
Vehicle is out of service for 30 or more cumulative days

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 minus mileage-based deduction for vehicle use

Replacement

New vehicle of comparable value

Legal Costs

Attorney's fees may be recoverable if you prevail

South Dakota Lemon Law Process

1. Track the Issues

Keep detailed service records and dates
Document symptoms and mileage

2. Request a Final Repair

Notify the manufacturer and allow one final repair opportunity
Send a certified letter with details and documentation

3. File a Claim

Work with a lemon law attorney to evaluate your case
You may be entitled to a refund or replacement

South Dakota Lemon Law FAQs

Does South Dakota's lemon law apply to used vehicles?

No, it only applies to new vehicles covered by the original manufacturer's warranty.

Are leased vehicles covered?

Yes, leased vehicles are covered under the same standards as purchased vehicles.

Is arbitration required?

Not required, but some manufacturers offer arbitration programs you may choose to use.

How long do I have to file a claim?

You must file within the warranty period or within 1 year of delivery—whichever comes first.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

We handle lemon law cases against all major manufacturers:

Need South Dakota Lemon Law Help?

If you're stuck with a lemon vehicle in South Dakota, our attorneys can help you get justice. Call us or start your free case review today.

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South Dakota Lemon Law

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