Pennsylvania Lemon Law

[MarvBear]

Information from NADA Title & Registration Textbook 2004

 

Pennsylvania Lemon Law

 

The Pennsylvania Automobile Lemon Law now affords a measure of protection to consumers who buy new cars that don’t work. The law applies to any new vehicle bought for personal or family use and designed to transport up to 15 persons. Motorcycles, motor homes and off-road vehicles are not included. Only vehicles purchased and register in Pennsylvania are covered. Under the law, the manufacturer must, at no cost to the purchaser, repair or correct any defect or condition which “substantially impairs” the use, value or safety of the vehicle. The law says the defect or condition must occur within: 10 one year after deliver; or 20 12,000 miles of use; or 3) the terms of the manufacturer’s express warranty, whichever comes first. MANUFACTURER’S DUTIES – If the defect cannot be repaired after three attempts for the same defect, or the vehicle is out of service for a total of 30 calendar days for repair, then the purchaser can choose either a replacement vehicle of equal value or a refund of the purchase price, less an allowance for actual use, i.e., 10 cents per mile or 10 percent of purchase price whichever is less. (Use prior to the first report of the defect to manufacturer.) PURCHASER’S DUTIES – The purchaser must deliver the vehicle to the manufacturer’s authorized service and repair facility, unless it is impossible to do so because of the nature of the defect. In cases where the purchaser is unable to return the vehicle for reasons provided under the law, he must notify the manufacturer or its authorized service and repair facility in writing. If the defect does not substantially impair the use, value or safety of the vehicle, or it is the result of the purchaser’s own abuse, neglect, modification or alteration, the purchaser shall not be entitled to a refund or replacement vehicle. For additional information please contact the Office of the Attorney General, Bureau of Consumer Protection, 214 Samter Building, 101 Penn Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503