Idaho Lemon Law Information
GET MAD: Idaho's out-of-service criteria of 30 business days (6 weeks!!) is the second-longest of the 50 state lemon laws.
Tell your reps how unfair this is & that you want the law changed »
The Idaho Lemon Law applies when, during the first two (2) years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first), following delivery of a new vehicle:
- the dealer has attempted to repair the same problem four (4) or more times, or
- the dealer has made an unsuccessful repair attempt that resulted in the complete failure of the steering or braking system, and the failure likely would cause death or serious bodily injury, or
- the vehicle has been out of service for repairs at the dealership for a cumulative total of 30 or more business days.
You also may request a refund or vehicle replacement if you reported the defect during the term of the express warranty, and the manufacturer is unable to repair the defect within three years of the date of delivery.
To qualify for the Idaho Lemon Law, the defects or conditions must impair the vehicle’s use or market value. The law does not cover nonconformities resulting from abuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications or alterations of the vehicle.
Idaho Lemon Law information from the Attorney General's Office (PDF) » Idaho Statutes Title 48, Chapter 9 - New Motor Vehicle Warranties » Idaho Consumer Protection Tips regarding automobiles »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.