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60 Second Lemon Law Assessment™
60 Second Lemon Law Assessment™
Does your Silverado have the infamous “Chevy Shake”? Is your Equinox consuming an alarming amount of oil? Or are you one of the many Bolt EV owners who faced the stress of battery fire risks? These aren’t just minor annoyances; they are well-documented, substantial defects that could mean your vehicle is a lemon. When a manufacturer fails to provide a permanent fix for such serious problems, you have legal recourse. The Chevy lemon law provides a clear path for owners of defective vehicles to get their money back or receive a replacement car. Here, we’ll break down these common issues and more, showing you exactly how to build a strong case and get the justice you deserve.
Few things are as exciting as driving a brand-new Chevrolet off the lot. The smell of fresh upholstery, the promise of reliable performance, and the cutting-edge technology all contribute to the thrill of a new car purchase. Chevrolet, a cornerstone of American automotive manufacturing, has a long-standing reputation for producing dependable vehicles, from the rugged Silverado to the family-friendly Equinox and the innovative Bolt EV. However, even the most reputable manufacturers can sometimes produce a vehicle that falls short of expectations—a “lemon.” A lemon car is more than just a minor inconvenience; it’s a vehicle with substantial defects that significantly impair its use, value, or safety, despite repeated attempts by the manufacturer or authorized dealership to repair it. For Chevy owners, encountering such persistent problems can be incredibly frustrating and financially draining. This comprehensive guide will walk you through what the Chevy Lemon Law means for you, common Chevrolet defects and recalls, your legal rights, and how to pursue a claim to get the compensation you deserve. If your new Chevy is causing you headaches, don’t give up hope. You have rights under federal and state lemon laws. For a free consultation, call 1-888-536-6671 today.
While many people refer to “lemon laws” as if they are a single, unified federal statute, the reality is a bit more complex. The primary federal law that protects consumers from defective vehicles is the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. This act doesn’t specifically define what a “lemon” car is, but it provides a framework for how manufacturers must honor their warranties and allows consumers to sue for damages if a manufacturer fails to comply. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, if a manufacturer fails to repair a defect covered by a written warranty after a reasonable number of attempts, the consumer may be entitled to a refund, a replacement vehicle, or monetary damages. This federal law applies to all consumer products with written warranties, including new and used cars. While it sets a baseline, individual state lemon laws often provide more specific and robust protections for vehicle owners.
Every state has its own unique lemon law, designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles with significant manufacturing defects. Kahn & Associates handles Chevy lemon law cases in Ohio, Florida, Michigan, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. These state laws typically define what constitutes a “lemon” more precisely than the federal act. While the specifics vary from state to state, most lemon laws share common elements:
If your Chevy qualifies as a lemon, you typically have two primary remedies:
Choosing between these can depend on various factors, including your preference for the vehicle model, your financial situation, and the specifics of the lemon law settlement. Your lemon law attorney can help you navigate these options.
This is a popular option for many drivers. A buyback, or repurchase, means the manufacturer buys the vehicle back from you. They will refund the purchase price, including taxes and fees, and pay off any outstanding loan on the car. A small deduction is usually made for the mileage you put on the vehicle before the first repair attempt for the defect. This option essentially resets your financial situation, freeing you from the problematic car and the associated loan. It allows you to start fresh with a different vehicle, without being financially penalized for a manufacturer’s error. Many of our clients find this to be the cleanest way to resolve their lemon law issue, as shown in some of our successful cases.
If you still love your Chevy model but just happened to get a defective one, a replacement might be the right choice for you. With this remedy, the manufacturer provides you with a new, comparable vehicle. This means a car that is substantially identical to your original one, including similar features and options. The manufacturer is responsible for delivering the new car and handling the title transfer. This option is ideal for those who don’t want to go through the car shopping process again and are happy to get a non-defective version of the vehicle they initially chose. It’s a straightforward solution that gets you back on the road in a reliable car without the hassle of starting from scratch.
In some situations, you might prefer to keep your vehicle despite its issues, especially if the defect is more of a nuisance than a major safety concern. This is where a “cash and keep” settlement comes in. With this option, you keep the car and receive a cash payment from the manufacturer as compensation for the defect and the diminished value of the vehicle. This can be a good compromise if you’ve grown attached to your car or if the problems don’t significantly impact your daily driving. Negotiating this type of settlement requires a clear understanding of your vehicle’s value and the severity of its defects, which is why it’s beneficial to contact an experienced attorney to represent your interests.
While the remedies are often similar, the path to qualifying for them depends entirely on your state’s specific laws. Each state has its own lemon law that outlines the exact criteria a vehicle must meet to be declared a lemon. These laws are designed to give consumers a clear process for holding manufacturers accountable for significant defects. Understanding these requirements is the first step in building a strong case. While the details can seem complicated, they generally revolve around a few key principles: the number of repair attempts, the severity of the defect, and the timeframe in which the problems occurred. Let’s break down these common requirements so you know what to look for.
You can’t file a lemon law claim after just one trip to the mechanic. The law requires you to give the manufacturer a “reasonable number of attempts” to fix the problem. While the exact number varies, it generally means three to four repair attempts for the same recurring issue. However, if the defect is a serious safety problem—something that could cause injury or death—the number of required attempts may drop to just one or two. Additionally, most states have a rule about the total time your car is out of service. If your Chevy has been in the shop for a cumulative total of 30 days or more for warranty repairs, it may qualify as a lemon, regardless of how many individual repair attempts were made.
It’s important to act quickly if you suspect you have a lemon. Every state has a statute of limitations, which is a legal deadline for filing a claim. This time limit can vary significantly from one state to another, so you shouldn’t wait to seek legal advice. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to pursue a claim altogether, no matter how strong your case is. The clock usually starts ticking from the date the defect was discovered or when the warranty was breached. To ensure you understand the specific timeline for your situation and protect your rights, it’s wise to consult with an attorney as soon as you realize the repairs aren’t solving the problem. You can learn more about the process in our free lemon law book.
For a defect to be covered under state lemon laws, it must first be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. This means the problem must arise and be reported to the dealership for repair while the warranty is still active. Typically, this is within the first 12 to 24 months or the first 12,000 to 24,000 miles of ownership, but you should check your specific warranty documents. Keeping detailed records of every repair visit, including the date you reported the issue and the work that was done, is crucial. This documentation proves that you gave the manufacturer the opportunity to fix the problem within the warranty period, which is a fundamental requirement for any successful lemon law claim. These protections are supported by the Federal Lemon Law.
Chevrolet, like all automakers, has faced its share of known issues and recalls. While a recall doesn’t automatically make your car a lemon, persistent problems related to recalled components that aren’t adequately fixed can certainly contribute to a lemon law claim. Some of the most frequently cited issues that have led to Chevy lemon law claims include:
A widespread complaint among Chevrolet Silverado (and other GM trucks/SUVs like the Tahoe, Suburban, Sierra) owners with the 8-speed automatic transmission (8L90 and 8L45) is the “Chevy Shake” or “transmission shudder.” This issue typically manifests as:
Many owners report multiple visits to dealerships, often receiving software updates, transmission fluid flushes (using specific Mobil 1 fluid), or even full transmission replacements, only for the problem to return. This persistent defect has been a significant driver of lemon law claims for Silverado and other GM truck owners.
The Chevrolet Equinox (and GMC Terrain) with the 2.4L Ecotec engine has been notorious for excessive oil consumption. This issue can lead to:
Despite service bulletins and extended warranties for some models, many owners found that the issue persisted or recurred, making their Equinox a potential lemon.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV faced a major recall due to a manufacturing defect in its high-voltage battery pack, specifically a torn anode tab and a folded separator. This defect significantly increased the risk of vehicle fires. Key aspects included:
For many Bolt EV owners, the severe safety defect, combined with the inconvenience and diminished value from restrictive usage recommendations and lengthy repair times, made their vehicles strong candidates for lemon law claims or buybacks.
While the Silverado, Equinox, and Bolt EV have some of the most well-documented issues, they are far from the only Chevrolet models that can end up being lemons. Persistent defects can plague almost any vehicle in the lineup, from sporty coupes to family-sized SUVs. If you’re experiencing recurring problems with your Chevy, it’s important to know you’re not alone and that your vehicle’s issues might be part of a larger pattern. Understanding these common complaints can help you identify if your car’s problems are substantial enough to warrant a lemon law claim, which requires the defect to significantly impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.
The Chevrolet Camaro is built for performance, which makes engine and transmission problems especially disappointing. Owners have reported a frustrating range of issues, including coolant leaks that risk overheating the engine, unusually high fuel consumption, and serious transmission problems. Some drivers experience rough shifting or hesitation when accelerating, which completely undermines the car’s sporty feel. These aren’t just minor annoyances; they are significant defects that can affect the vehicle’s performance and safety. When repeated trips to the dealership fail to provide a permanent fix, it may be time to explore your rights under your state’s Lemon Laws.
As vehicles designed to carry families, the Chevrolet Tahoe and Traverse have a special responsibility to be safe and reliable. Unfortunately, both have been known to have significant defects. Tahoe owners have dealt with everything from engine misfires and excessive oil consumption to premature engine failure and brake defects. The Traverse has its own list of common complaints, including engine trouble, brake fluid leaks, and widespread electrical failures affecting windows, locks, and the dashboard. When your family’s primary mode of transportation is constantly in the shop, it creates a huge amount of stress. These types of substantial impairments are exactly what lemon laws are designed to address.
Electrical gremlins can be some of the most difficult issues to diagnose and repair, and they have been known to affect models like the Impala and Trailblazer. For the Impala, these electrical issues often accompany other serious problems with the engine, transmission, and brakes. Trailblazer owners have also reported frustrating electrical glitches. A recall was even issued for the 2021 Trailblazer Activ due to missing tire information labels, a seemingly small but important safety detail. If your car’s dashboard flickers, your power features work intermittently, or you’re facing other persistent electrical issues, don’t let the dealership tell you it’s “normal.” You may have a valid claim, and it’s worth getting a free case review to find out.
A safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect. While a recall provides a free fix, it doesn’t automatically disqualify your vehicle from being a lemon. In fact, if the recall repair is unsuccessful, takes too long to complete, or causes other problems, it can strengthen your lemon law case. A recall is an admission by the manufacturer that a defect exists, which can be a powerful piece of evidence. Here are a couple of significant recalls that have affected Chevy owners.
One of the most serious recalls involved the Chevrolet Traverse, where the driver’s airbag inflator was found to be at risk of exploding during deployment. This defect could send sharp metal fragments flying through the cabin, posing a risk of severe injury or even death. The remedy was for dealers to replace the entire airbag module at no cost to the owner. A defect this severe is a major red flag. If you experienced this issue or had trouble getting the recall repair done in a timely manner, it could be a critical component of a lemon law claim. Our firm has a long history of handling cases involving serious safety defects, and you can see some of our successes on our website.
The Chevrolet Equinox has been subject to multiple recalls for different safety concerns. One recall addressed a faulty fuel pump that could cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, creating a dangerous situation, especially at high speeds. Another recall was for tires with defective tread that could separate from the tire, increasing the risk of a crash. In both cases, dealers were instructed to replace the faulty parts for free. However, if the engine stalling continued after the repair or if you experienced other persistent issues, your vehicle could still be a lemon. A recall is the start of a solution, not the end of your rights.
While the above are the most prominent, other issues that could lead to a Chevy lemon law claim include:
Remember, the key is the persistence and substantial nature of the defect, despite repeated repair attempts within the warranty period.
Navigating a lemon law claim can be complex (see our complete guide to how the lemon law works), but understanding the general steps can help you prepare:
It’s important to note that most state lemon laws include a provision that requires the manufacturer to pay your legal fees if you win your case. This means that pursuing a lemon law claim often comes at no out-of-pocket cost to you.
Think of your documentation as the foundation of your lemon law claim. Without a solid paper trail, it’s your word against the dealership’s, and that’s a tough spot to be in. Every piece of paper, from the initial sales contract to the final repair invoice, tells a part of your vehicle’s story. Meticulous record-keeping is the single most important thing you can do to strengthen your case. Start a dedicated folder or digital file and save everything related to your Chevy’s issues. This includes all communication with the dealership and manufacturer, receipts, and detailed notes from every phone call. This organized evidence will be invaluable when you need to prove that your vehicle has a persistent defect that the manufacturer has been unable to fix after a reasonable number of attempts.
Every time you take your Chevy to the dealership for a warranty repair, you must leave with a copy of the repair order. This isn’t just a receipt; it’s legal proof of a repair attempt. Make sure the document clearly states your specific complaint, the date you dropped off the car, the mileage, the date you picked it up, and a detailed description of the work the technicians performed. Don’t accept vague descriptions like “checked vehicle” or “could not duplicate.” If the problem wasn’t fixed, ensure the paperwork reflects that. This documentation is the most crucial evidence for any Chevy lemon law claim, as it proves the history of the defect and the dealership’s attempts to correct it.
While your local mechanic might be trustworthy and convenient, taking your Chevy to an independent shop for warranty-related issues can jeopardize your lemon law rights. To protect your warranty, all repairs for the defect in question must be performed at a dealership or facility certified by the manufacturer. Using a third-party mechanic for warranty work could give Chevrolet (GM) an excuse to deny your claim by arguing that the repairs were not done to their standards or that the independent shop caused further damage. Always use an authorized Chevy service center to ensure every repair attempt is officially documented and your warranty remains intact, giving you the strongest possible position for a claim.
One of the most common mistakes consumers make is assuming that complaining to the dealership is the same as notifying the manufacturer. It’s not. Most state lemon laws require you to give the manufacturer—in this case, General Motors (GM)—formal written notice of the ongoing defect. This letter officially informs GM of the problem and gives them a final opportunity to repair the vehicle. This step is a legal prerequisite in many states and failing to do it can stop your claim before it even starts. Drafting this letter correctly is critical, which is why it’s often best to have an attorney help you prepare and send it to ensure it meets all legal requirements.
Once you’ve organized your documents and notified the manufacturer, it’s time to get an expert in your corner. Trying to handle a lemon law claim on your own means going up against the massive legal team of a global corporation like General Motors. An experienced lemon law attorney levels the playing field. They understand the specific requirements of your state’s lemon law and know the tactics manufacturers use to delay or deny claims. Your attorney will handle all communications and negotiations, working to secure the best possible outcome for you, whether it’s a full buyback, a replacement vehicle, or a cash settlement. Many lemon law cases are settled out of court, and having a skilled negotiator on your side makes all the difference in achieving a fair result. We have a long history of successful lemon law cases against major auto manufacturers.
While the idea of taking on a large automaker like Chevrolet can seem daunting, a skilled lemon law attorney can level the playing field. Here’s why legal representation is crucial:
Don’t let the complexity of the legal system prevent you from seeking justice. If your Chevy has been a persistent problem, speak with a lemon law expert. For a no-obligation consultation, call 1-888-536-6671.
It might seem straightforward—your car has a serious defect, it hasn’t been fixed, so you should get your money back. Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple. For a massive corporation like General Motors, every buyback or replacement is a financial loss. To protect their bottom line, manufacturers have dedicated legal teams whose job is to challenge and minimize these claims. They often try to fight lemon law claims by arguing the defect isn’t “substantial,” blaming the issue on owner misuse, or offering a lowball settlement that doesn’t fully compensate you. They are banking on the hope that you’ll find the process too intimidating and either give up or accept less than you deserve.
This is precisely why having an expert in your corner is so important. A skilled lemon law attorney can level the playing field. While you may be facing this for the first time, an experienced lawyer has handled hundreds or thousands of cases just like yours. They understand the manufacturer’s tactics, know the specific legal requirements of your state’s lemon law, and won’t be pushed around by corporate legal teams. An attorney manages all the complex paperwork, deadlines, and communications with Chevrolet, removing the stress and burden from your shoulders. At Kahn & Associates, we have over 29 years of experience fighting for consumers. We know how to build a strong case and negotiate effectively to get you the compensation you’re owed. Best of all, because the law requires the manufacturer to pay your legal fees if you win, you get this expert representation at no out-of-pocket cost. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by getting professional help.
When you partner with a firm that specializes in lemon law, your chances of a successful outcome increase dramatically. An experienced attorney knows exactly what evidence is needed to prove your Chevy is a lemon and won’t be sidetracked by the manufacturer’s arguments. Our firm’s track record speaks for itself—we have recovered more than $65 million for our clients. This history of successful lemon law cases demonstrates a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to achieving results. We meticulously prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which puts us in the strongest possible position to secure a favorable outcome for you.
The thought of a lengthy court battle is enough to deter many people from pursuing a claim. However, it’s important to know that many lemon law cases are settled out of court through negotiation. Manufacturers are often motivated to settle to avoid the higher costs and negative publicity of a trial, especially when they know they are up against an experienced attorney with a strong case. The primary goal is to secure a fair settlement for you as efficiently as possible. This could mean a full buyback, a replacement vehicle, or a “cash and keep” settlement, all without you ever having to step inside a courtroom. An expert negotiator works on your behalf to achieve the best result, making the process much smoother and less intimidating than you might think. You can learn more by reading our frequently asked lemon law questions.
The majority of state lemon laws apply only to new vehicles. If you purchased a used Chevrolet that turns out to have significant problems, the traditional lemon law might not protect you. However, you still have other avenues for recourse:
If you have a used Chevy with serious defects, consult with an attorney to understand your rights under these alternative legal theories.
A “buyback” is one of the most common remedies in a successful Chevy state lemon law claim. When a manufacturer performs a buyback, they agree to repurchase your defective vehicle. The total amount of the buyback typically includes:
For many consumers, a buyback provides the quickest and most straightforward path to moving past a problematic vehicle.
Considering a lemon law claim for a different vehicle? Our attorneys handle cases for all major manufacturers:
No matter what vehicle you drive, the process starts with a free 60-Second Lemon Law Assessment.
Discovering that your new Chevrolet is a lemon can be an incredibly frustrating and disappointing experience. However, you don’t have to face the manufacturer alone. Federal and state lemon laws are designed to protect consumers from defective vehicles and ensure that manufacturers stand by their products. If your Chevy Silverado, Equinox, Bolt EV, or any other model has suffered from persistent, substantial defects despite multiple repair attempts, it’s time to take action. Gather your documentation, understand your rights, and most importantly, seek experienced legal counsel. A qualified lemon law attorney can assess your specific situation, navigate the complexities of state and federal laws (such as the Ohio Lemon Law, Florida Lemon Law, and Pennsylvania Lemon Law), and fight on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve—whether it’s a vehicle replacement, a full refund (buyback), or monetary damages. Don’t let a lemon car sour your new car experience. Protect your investment and your peace of mind. For a confidential, free evaluation of your Chevy lemon law claim, call 1-888-536-6671 today. Take the first step towards resolving your automotive nightmare.
How much does it cost to hire a lemon law attorney? This is the best part: it shouldn’t cost you anything out of pocket. Most state and federal lemon laws include a fee-shifting provision. This means that if your case is successful, the manufacturer is legally required to pay all of your attorney’s fees and legal costs. We only get paid if we win your case, so you can get expert legal help without any upfront financial risk.
What if the dealership says they can’t duplicate the problem? This is a very common and frustrating tactic. The most important thing you can do is create a solid paper trail. Every single time you take the car in for the issue, make sure your complaint is written on the repair order exactly as you described it. Even if they write “could not duplicate,” the document still proves you made a repair attempt for a specific problem on a specific date.
I bought my Chevy used. Can it still be a lemon? It’s possible, though the rules are a bit different. While most state lemon laws are designed for new vehicles, you may still be protected under the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. This law applies to used cars as long as the defect occurred while the car was still covered by a written warranty, like the original manufacturer’s warranty or a certified pre-owned warranty.
How long will my lemon law case take to resolve? Every case is unique, so there’s no single answer. However, many lemon law claims are resolved relatively quickly, often within a few months. The goal is always to negotiate a fair settlement with the manufacturer without needing a long, drawn-out court battle. An experienced attorney can help streamline the process and work toward an efficient resolution.
My Chevy was recalled. Does that mean it’s automatically a lemon? Not automatically. A recall is simply the manufacturer’s admission that a widespread defect exists. Your car only becomes a lemon if the dealership is unable to fix that recalled defect after a reasonable number of attempts. In fact, an unsuccessful recall repair can significantly strengthen your lemon law claim because the manufacturer has already acknowledged the problem.
*Disclaimer: The information contained in this Website is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as offering legal advice, or creating an attorney client relationship between the reader and the author. While we aim for accuracy, the law is constantly changing and we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or timeliness of the information. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this Website without seeking appropriate legal advice about your individual facts and circumstances from an attorney licensed in your state.
To see if you qualify, fill out the form below or call us at 1-888-536-6671 – No Office Visit Needed!
I had a great experience with Kahn & Associates! They made the process of dealing with an extremely frustrating lemon situation painless. They have very quick response times and everyone I dealt with was very friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend!
Kahn and Associates did an awesome job with our lemon law case! We were getting nowhere with VW Customer Service and decided to hire an attorney who specialized with lemon law cases. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome. We were able to get a full refund on our lemon VW Atlas.
What a great experience! I was on the fence about hiring an attorney for my ongoing automotive issues and continued frustration with the manufacturer. It was a very simple process and I am very grateful Kahn and Associates for helping get me a settlement!
Real Honest attorneys!!! They are the real deal! I went back and forth with them and they explained to me every step and my rights under the law! I give them 5 stars because I won!!! Yes and my check is coming to me much sooner than I thought! I was stuck ! I own a brand new car and the dealer was giving me a hard time !
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Attorney Craig A. Kahn, who has more than 20 years of legal experience in lemon law.
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Stuck with a defective car in Ohio? State Lemon Laws protect you. Get a refund, replacement, or cash settlement. Learn your rights today!
Florida Lemon Laws cover new and used vehicles. If your car’s a lemon, you deserve compensation. Let us help you fight for justice!
Michigan’s Lemon Law protects you from faulty vehicles. Don’t settle for endless repairs—claim your refund or replacement now.
North Carolina Lemon Laws ensure defective vehicles are replaced or refunded. Know your rights and take action today!
Pennsylvania Lemon Law covers new cars with repeated issues. Get the compensation you deserve. Click to learn more!
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*Disclaimer: The information contained in this Website is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as offering legal advice, or creating an attorney client relationship between the reader and the author. While we aim for accuracy, the law is constantly changing and we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or timeliness of the information. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this Website without seeking appropriate legal advice about your individual facts and circumstances from an attorney licensed in your state.
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