What is Virginia's Lemon Law?

Lemons leave a sour taste in one's mouth. When you find that your new purchase is in the repair shop more than in your driveway, you can get the same taste. Defective vehicles are called lemons. Such lemons come in all sizes and shapes.  Most lemons have wheels, and technically, Virginia's "lemon" law -- the Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act -- is limited to automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and the chassis of motorhomes. In Virginia, for a motor vehicle to qualify for a buy-back under the Warranty Enforcement Act, it must generally be no older than four model years, and have documented problems during its first eighteen months following delivery to the first owner or lessee.  There must also be evidence that the manufacturer was notified within eighteen months from delivery.  Most warranties provided with motor vehicle purchases are termed "limited," and only provide the manufacturer's promise to repair, replace or adjust a defective product.  There is generally no right to a refund of the purchase price for defective vehicles, except for new motor vehicle lemons.

Virginia's Warranty Enforcement Act does not include boats and watercraft (such as jet skiis, etc.).  Neither does it include the "coach" or living section of a motorhome.  However the consumer with a boat or motorhome defect or malfunction is still protected under the Virginia's Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and the Federal Law called the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. 

If you have purchased a product that may qualify as a lemon above, contact FerrisBowman PLLC and let us help.