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

Wisconsin's lemon law covers defects that occur within one year of the vehicle's delivery date or the expiration of the express warranty, whichever is earlier.

How many repair attempts are required in Wisconsin?

Four or more repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for 30 or more days. For serious safety defects, only one repair attempt may be required.

Does Wisconsin require arbitration?

No, Wisconsin does not require consumers to participate in arbitration before filing a lawsuit under the lemon law, though manufacturers may offer voluntary programs.

What makes Wisconsin's lemon law unique?

Wisconsin's law includes specific deadlines for manufacturer compliance, does not require arbitration, and provides clear guidelines for refunds and replacements. The state also has strong consumer protection measures and includes provisions for recovering attorney fees.

Wisconsin Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Wisconsin Lemon Law Overview

Wisconsin's Lemon Law helps protect consumers who purchase or lease new motor vehicles that turn out to have repeated, unfixable problems. The law requires manufacturers to provide a refund or replacement vehicle if the defect cannot be fixed within a reasonable time.

Key Features

Applies to new vehicles, including leased vehicles
Coverage for the first 12 months or 12,000 miles
Consumer must allow four attempts or 30 days out of service
Strict deadlines for legal action
Includes motorcycles and some motor homes

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The vehicle was purchased or leased in Wisconsin
The problem occurred within 1 year or 12,000 miles of delivery
The issue significantly impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle
The manufacturer had at least 4 chances to fix it, or the vehicle was out of service 30+ days
The problem wasn't caused by abuse or unauthorized changes

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

1 year or 12,000 miles from the date the vehicle is delivered (whichever comes first)

Repair Attempts

4+ failed attempts to fix the same problem, OR
Vehicle was out of service for 30+ cumulative days

Legal Deadline

You must begin legal action within 3 years of delivery

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

Replacement

A new vehicle of comparable value

Refund

Full refund including taxes, fees, and finance charges (minus mileage offset)

Attorney's Fees

If you win your case, the manufacturer must cover legal costs

Wisconsin Lemon Law Process

1. Track Repairs

Keep detailed records of every visit to the repair shop
Document downtime and repair attempts

2. Request Refund or Replacement

Send a written request to the manufacturer
Use certified mail and keep copies of your notice

3. Legal Action

If the manufacturer refuses, file a lemon law claim
You may be entitled to compensation and attorney's fees

Wisconsin Lemon Law FAQs

Are used cars covered?

No. Wisconsin's lemon law only applies to new vehicles. Used cars may fall under other warranties or state laws.

Do I have to use arbitration?

No. Arbitration is not required in Wisconsin, but it may be an option offered by some manufacturers.

What if the defect reappears after 12,000 miles?

If the issue started within the first year or 12,000 miles, it may still qualify even if repairs continue afterward.

How long do I have to take legal action?

You must take legal action within 3 years of the vehicle's delivery date.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

We handle lemon law cases across all major automakers. Learn more:

Need Wisconsin Lemon Law Help?

If your new vehicle keeps having problems, our team can help you get a refund or replacement under Wisconsin law. Contact us for a free case evaluation.

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Wisconsin Lemon Law

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