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

Virginia's lemon law covers defects that occur within 18 months of the vehicle's delivery date. The consumer must report the defect within this period.

How many repair attempts are required in Virginia?

Three 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 that could cause death or serious bodily injury, only one repair attempt may be required.

Does Virginia require arbitration?

Yes, Virginia 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 Virginia's lemon law unique?

Virginia's law includes specific provisions for calculating refund amounts, covers leased vehicles, and provides clear guidelines for manufacturer compliance. The state also has strong consumer protection measures and includes provisions for recovering attorney fees.

Virginia Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Virginia Lemon Law Overview

The Virginia Lemon Law, officially known as the Virginia Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act, provides protection to consumers who purchase or lease defective new vehicles. The law requires the manufacturer to repair, replace, or refund vehicles that meet the legal definition of a lemon.

Key Features

Applies to new vehicles (and some used if still under warranty)
Protects leased and purchased vehicles
Covers 18 months from delivery
Applies to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and RVs
Does not require arbitration before filing suit

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect occurred within 18 months of the delivery date
The issue substantially impairs the use, market value, or safety
You've made 3+ repair attempts for the same issue, or
Your vehicle has been in the shop for 30+ days
You provided written notice to the manufacturer

Important Timeframes

18-Month Protection Period

Virginia Lemon Law applies for 18 months from the vehicle's original delivery date, regardless of mileage.

Repair Attempts

3 or more failed repairs for the same issue, or
30+ total days out of service

Written Notice Requirement

Send written notice to the manufacturer and allow a final opportunity to repair the vehicle.

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 based on mileage

Replacement

A comparable new vehicle

Repair Order

Manufacturer may be compelled to complete repairs at no cost

Virginia Lemon Law Process

1. Document Everything

Track every repair visit and save invoices
Note dates, mileage, and symptoms for each issue

2. Notify the Manufacturer

Send a certified letter requesting final repair
Include repair history and problem summary

3. File a Lawsuit or Settle

You are not required to go through arbitration
If you win, the manufacturer pays your legal fees

Virginia Lemon Law FAQs

Does Virginia lemon law apply to used cars?

Only if the defect arises within 18 months of the original delivery and the vehicle is still under the manufacturer's warranty.

Is arbitration required?

No. You may proceed directly to court without using a manufacturer's arbitration program.

Are leased vehicles covered?

Yes. Virginia lemon law covers both leased and purchased vehicles.

What types of vehicles are covered?

Cars, pickup trucks, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles (RVs).

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Some automakers are known for recurring issues. Learn more below:

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Virginia Lemon Law

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