Illinois Lemon Law Information

GET MAD: Illinois has one of the worst Lemon Laws in the U.S. from the consumer's perspective. Illinois's out-of-service criteria of 30 business days (6 weeks!!) is the second-longest of the 50 state lemon laws, & the 1-year limit is the least amount of time for coverage.

Tell your reps how unfair this is & that you want the law changed »

The Illinois Lemon Law applies when, during the first year following delivery of a new vehicle:

  • the dealer has attempted to repair the same problem four (4) or more times, or
  • the vehicle has been out of service for repairs at the dealership for a cumulative total of 30 or more business days.

To qualify for the Illinois Lemon Law, the problem must substantially impair the use, market value or safety of the vehicle.

Illinois Lemon Law information from the Attorney General's Office »

Helpful Lemon Law Tips

Most states require you to notify the dealer and the manufacturer that you have a Lemon Law claim. Always use Certified Mail with Return Receipt.

If the manufacturer has an informal mediation or dispute resolution process, most states require you to do that first before pursuing litigation. However, you should contact a lawyer immediately.

Most lawyers will not charge you for an initial consultation or legal fees for Lemon Law arbitration. If they decide you have a case, normally the manufacturer is forced to pay your legal costs.