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Texas Lemon Law Overview
The Texas Lemon Law, administered by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV), helps consumers who buy or lease new vehicles that turn out to be defective. The law provides a process to resolve complaints and may offer replacement, repurchase, or repairs.
Key Features
- Applies to new vehicles under warranty
- Covers cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and RVs
- Administered by the TxDMV, not the courts
- Filing fee required (approx. $35)
- Must go through a state-run hearing process
Qualification Requirements
Your Vehicle Qualifies If:
- The issue began within 24 months or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first)
- The defect substantially impairs the use, value, or safety
- You've made a reasonable number of repair attempts
- The vehicle is covered under the manufacturer's warranty
Important Timeframes
24/24 Rule
Defects must be reported within 24 months or 24,000 miles of delivery (whichever comes first), though the issue can be resolved after that period.
Repair Attempts
- 4 or more attempts to repair the same problem, or
- 2 or more attempts for a serious safety defect, or
- 30+ cumulative days in the shop within first 24 months/24k miles
Multiple Issues
- 2 or more substantial defects within warranty period
- Each defect must impair use, value, or safety
- Reasonable number of repair attempts for each issue
Note: The complaint must be filed within 6 months after the earlier of the warranty ending, 24 months, or 24,000 miles.
Good to Know
If your vehicle is still under the original manufacturer's warranty, you still may be eligible for lemon law protection—even if you're outside the typical mileage or time limits. Talk to a lemon law attorney to find out your rights.
Available Remedies
Vehicle Repurchase
Refund minus usage fee
Vehicle Replacement
Comparable vehicle of same type
Repair Order
Manufacturer may be required to perform specific repairs
Texas Lemon Law Process
1. Keep Records
- Repair orders, invoices, and communication
- Dates and mileage for each visit
2. File a Complaint
- Submit a formal complaint to the TxDMV
- Pay filing fee (around $35)
3. Attend a Hearing
- State examiner will review your case
- Manufacturer may be ordered to repurchase or replace
Texas Lemon Law FAQs
Does Texas lemon law apply to used cars?
No. It only applies to new vehicles that are still under the manufacturer's warranty.
Do I need a lawyer to file a lemon law complaint in Texas?
No, but having an attorney can help with appeals or more complex cases involving safety issues or warranty denials.
What if my car is certified pre-owned (CPO)?
Texas lemon law typically does not cover CPO vehicles unless they come with a manufacturer-backed warranty and meet all other criteria.
How long does the process take?
Usually 30 to 120 days depending on backlog and complexity. The hearing decision is typically issued within 60 days of the complaint.
Manufacturer-Specific Information
Different manufacturers have varying processes and known issues. Select a manufacturer to learn more:
Need Texas Lemon Law Help?
Every case is different. Our team helps Texans navigate lemon law claims and get the compensation they deserve. Let's review your case for free.