Texas
Lemon Law
Find all you need to know about Texasa Lemon Law.
The Texas Law is a state law that helps consumers who buy or lease new motor vehicles and have repeated problems getting their vehicles properly repaired. The Texas
Lemon Law can help a consumer get the vehicle repurchased, replaced or repaired. It can be less complicated and less expensive than going to court.
The law was enacted by the Texas Legislature in 1983. A court challenge stalled enforcement of the law, but in 1985, a federal appeals court upheld its validity.
The Texas
Lemon Law is administered by the Texas Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicle Division and its Motor Vehicle Board.
The Motor Vehicle Division has helped resolve many complaints.
In 1991, the Legislature changed the Texas Law to benefit more consumers. The time period for filing a complaint and the definition of a "lemon" were expanded, and consumers may now be reimbursed for certain incidental expenses. Now, a disclosure notice accompanying any vehicle repurchased or replaced under the Lemon Law is also required.
In 1997, the Legislature added towable recreational vehicles (TRVs) to the Lemon Law. Besides being made primarily for temporary human habitation, TRVs must
-
be titled and registered in Texas
- be built on a single chassis;
- contain one or more life support systems.
- and
be towable by another motor vehicle.
Texas
Law Coverage
The
Lemon Law applies to new vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles motor homes and towable recreational vehicles (TRVs) that develop problems covered by a written factory warranty. Demonstrator vehicles are also considered new vehicles.
The law does not cover used motor vehicles (including program vehicles), repossessed vehicles, non-travel trailers, boats or farm equipment. Neither does it cover vehicles with:
-
problems caused by the owner's abuse,
- neglect or unauthorized changes to the vehicle,
-
parts or components not authorized or installed by the manufacturer,
- or
problems that do not substantially affect the use or market value of the vehicle.
Minor rattles or stereo problems are usually not considered serious under the
Texas Law.
When the term "manufacturer" is used, it should be understood to include distributor and converter, as well.
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