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

Washington's lemon law covers defects that occur within the manufacturer's warranty period or 2 years/24,000 miles of the vehicle's delivery date, whichever comes first.

How many repair attempts are required in Washington?

Four or more repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for 30 cumulative calendar days. For serious safety defects, only two repair attempts are required.

Does Washington require arbitration?

Yes, Washington has a state-run arbitration program, and consumers must request arbitration through the Attorney General's Office before filing a lawsuit under the lemon law.

What makes Washington's lemon law unique?

Washington has a state-run arbitration program, comprehensive coverage for both new and used vehicles, and specific provisions for motor homes. The state also provides clear guidelines for manufacturer compliance and strong consumer protection measures.

Washington Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Washington Lemon Law Overview

Washington's lemon law protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that experience persistent problems under warranty. It's governed by the Motor Vehicle Warranties Act (RCW 19.118) and provides a process for replacement, repurchase, or repair.

Key Features

Covers new and certain leased vehicles
Applies within 2 years or 24,000 miles
Mandatory arbitration before court action
Applies to substantial defects affecting use, value, or safety
Covers RVs, motorcycles, and passenger vehicles

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The issue occurred within 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first)
The defect affects use, value, or safety
The manufacturer had 4+ attempts to fix the same issue, or
The vehicle was out of service for 30+ cumulative days
Written final repair request was submitted to the manufacturer

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Applies for 2 years or 24,000 miles from original delivery date

Repair Attempts

4+ failed attempts for the same issue, or
30+ total days in the repair shop

Final Repair Opportunity

Written notice must be provided to the manufacturer allowing one last repair chance

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 usage fee

Replacement

New vehicle of comparable value

Repair Order

Manufacturer may be required to complete repairs under arbitration decision

Washington Lemon Law Process

1. Gather Documentation

Repair invoices, mileage logs, and notes on recurring problems
Details of previous dealer communications

2. Submit Final Repair Request

Send a certified letter to the manufacturer requesting one final repair attempt
Keep a copy of your notice and any response

3. File for Arbitration

Submit a claim through Washington State's free arbitration program
If unsuccessful, pursue legal action with a lemon law attorney

Washington Lemon Law FAQs

Are leased vehicles covered?

Yes, leased vehicles are protected as long as they meet the time/mileage and defect requirements.

Is arbitration mandatory?

Yes. You must go through the state-run arbitration program before filing a lawsuit.

What if I'm just outside the time or mileage limits?

If your defect happened while the vehicle was still under the manufacturer's warranty, you may still qualify.

What vehicles are covered?

New cars, trucks, RVs, motorcycles, and leased vehicles registered in Washington State.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Explore common issues by vehicle make and model:

Need Washington Lemon Law Help?

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Washington Lemon Law

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