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

Tennessee'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 Tennessee?

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, fewer repair attempts may be required.

Does Tennessee require arbitration?

Yes, Tennessee 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 Tennessee's lemon law unique?

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

Tennessee Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Tennessee Lemon Law Overview

Tennessee's Lemon Law protects consumers who buy or lease new motor vehicles that have significant defects affecting use, value, or safety. The law gives consumers the right to a replacement or refund if the manufacturer can't repair the vehicle within a reasonable number of attempts.

Key Features

Applies to new passenger vehicles (cars, trucks, SUVs)
Coverage for 1 year from delivery or during the manufacturer's warranty—whichever is longer
Protects leased and purchased vehicles
Requires at least 3 repair attempts or 30+ days out of service

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The issue arises within the first year or warranty period (whichever is longer)
The defect significantly affects the use, value, or safety
The manufacturer or dealer has made 3+ repair attempts OR
The vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Covers vehicles for 1 year from delivery or the full term of the manufacturer's warranty, whichever is longer

Repair Attempts

3 or more repair attempts for the same issue, OR
Vehicle is out of service for 30+ total 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

Full refund including taxes, fees, and down payment (minus mileage offset)

Replacement

A comparable vehicle with no additional cost to the consumer

Legal Costs

If successful, attorney fees may be covered by the manufacturer

Tennessee Lemon Law Process

1. Document the Defects

Keep repair receipts, dates, mileage logs, and service records

2. Notify the Manufacturer

Send a certified letter requesting a final repair opportunity

3. File a Lemon Law Claim

Work with a lemon law attorney to file your claim
Pursue arbitration or court action depending on the case

Tennessee Lemon Law FAQs

Does Tennessee Lemon Law cover used cars?

No, it only applies to new vehicles sold or leased in Tennessee.

Are motorcycles or RVs covered?

No. Only passenger vehicles intended primarily for personal use are covered.

How long do I have to file a claim?

You must bring a claim within 6 months after the warranty or 1-year coverage ends—whichever is later.

Is arbitration required?

Only if the manufacturer offers a state-certified arbitration program. Otherwise, court is an option.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Learn about lemon law claims involving major auto brands:

Need Tennessee Lemon Law Help?

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Tennessee Lemon Law

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