Pennsylvania Lemon Law

Pennsylvania Lemon Law: Know Your Rights, Get What You Deserve

If you’re fed up with repeated trips to the repair shop for the same problems, you may be driving a lemon—and you may have legal rights. Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law was created to protect consumers from vehicles that just can’t seem to get fixed, no matter how many chances the manufacturer has had.

At Kahn & Associates, we’ve been helping drivers get compensation, refunds, and replacement vehicles for nearly three decades. Even if your vehicle doesn’t meet the exact criteria of the Pennsylvania Lemon Law, you may still qualify under federal warranty laws and other legal protections.

Don’t let ongoing repairs cost you time, money, and peace of mind. Let us fight to get you the justice and relief you deserve.

What Is the Pennsylvania Lemon Law (and How Can Other Laws Help)?

If you’ve purchased or leased a defective vehicle in Pennsylvania, you may be protected under the Pennsylvania Lemon Law. This law requires manufacturers to repair substantial defects that affect the use, value, or safety of your vehicle—within the first 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. If they fail to do so after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a full refund or replacement vehicle.

But that’s just the beginning.

Even if your vehicle doesn’t meet the strict requirements of the Pennsylvania Lemon Law, you still have rights. We routinely use a powerful combination of federal warranty law (like the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) and breach of warranty protections to hold manufacturers accountable. These broader protections allow many consumers to recover compensation even if their situation falls outside the state law’s scope.

That’s where our experience matters. With decades of lemon law and warranty litigation behind us, we know how to navigate this complex legal web and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

No cost to you. No office visit needed. Let us evaluate your case today.

Who or What Qualifies Under the Pennsylvania Lemon Law (and Other Warranty Laws)?

To qualify under the Pennsylvania Lemon Law, your vehicle must generally meet these criteria:

• It must be a new car, truck, SUV, or van purchased or leased in Pennsylvania.
• The issue must arise within the first 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• The defect must substantially impair the use, value, or safety of the vehicle.
• The manufacturer must have had a reasonable number of chances to repair the issue, such as:
  
  • 3 or more repair attempts for the same defect,
    
  • 30 or more calendar days in the shop for repairs.

But even if your vehicle doesn’t meet these requirements, you still may qualify for compensation.

We also pursue claims under powerful federal and state warranty laws, including the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and general breach of warranty protections. These apply when:

• You purchased a new or used vehicle with a manufacturer’s warranty or manufacturer’s extended warranty (including CPO vehicles),
• Your repairs were under the original manufacturer’s warranty but outside the “lemon” window, and
• You’ve had repeated, unresolved issues or many days out of service when in for repair.

What Can You Get If You Qualify Under the Pennsylvania Lemon Law (and Other Warranty Laws)?

If you qualify under the Pennsylvania Lemon Law or these other legal protections, you may be entitled to:

• A full refund of your purchase price
• A replacement vehicle of comparable value
• Cash compensation for the loss of use, diminished value, or inconvenience
• Reimbursement for repair costs, towing, rental cars, and other related expenses
• Your legal fees are paid by the manufacturer, not by you

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for consumers across Pennsylvania and the U.S. by leveraging every available law to maximize results—even when their cases didn’t qualify under the state lemon law alone.

If you’re having repeated problems with your vehicle, don’t guess. Let us review your case for free—and fight to get you every dollar you’re owed.

What Types of Defects Qualify Under the Lemon Laws?

To qualify for compensation under Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law or federal warranty laws, the issue with your vehicle must be a defect or condition that substantially impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle and is not fixed within a reasonable number of repair attempts or reasonable amount of time.

Here are examples of the kinds of issues that frequently qualify:

Safety-Related Defects

These are often taken most seriously by manufacturers and courts:

• Brake system failure
• Steering problems or pulling to one side
• Airbag malfunctions
• Unintended acceleration or stalling
• Defective seat belts or sensors
• Electrical issues affecting lights, wipers, or instrument cluster

Mechanical and Drivability Issues

These problems affect the vehicle’s basic function or reliability:

• Engine knocking, misfiring, or stalling
• Transmission slipping, jerking, or failing to shift
• Hard starting or failure to start
• Excessive oil or fluid leaks

Comfort and Use Impairments

While not safety issues, these defects can still qualify under state and federal warranty law:

• Non-functioning air conditioning or heating
• Electrical failures in windows, locks, or infotainment systems
• Water leaks into the cabin or trunk
• Excessive wind noise or rattling
• Back-up camera or navigation system failures

Repeated Repairs of Any Kind

Even if the defect isn’t life-threatening, if you’ve been back to the shop multiple times for the same problem or have experienced lengthy repair delays, you may still qualify—especially under federal laws like the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which are broader than state lemon laws.

Not sure if your issue qualifies? Let us review your repair records for free and give you a straight answer—fast, confidential, and with no obligation.

Don’t Be Misled: Common Lemon Law Myths vs. the Real Facts

When it comes to lemon law and vehicle warranty claims, misinformation is everywhere. Many frustrated car owners don’t pursue their rights simply because they’ve been told—often by dealerships or internet rumors—that they don’t qualify, that it’s too late, or that filing a claim will void their warranty.

The truth? You may have more rights than you think. At Kahn & Associates, we’ve helped thousands of consumers across Pennsylvania get compensation or replacement vehicles by cutting through the confusion and applying both state and federal laws strategically.

Here are some of the most common myths we hear—and the real facts you should know before giving up on your case:

Don’t let myths keep you from getting what you’re owed. If you’re dealing with recurring vehicle issues, get a free case review and find out where you really stand.

Pennsylvania Lemon Law – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does my car have to break down completely to qualify as a lemon?

No. Your vehicle doesn’t have to stop running entirely. If you’re dealing with repeated issues that affect the use, value, or safety of your vehicle—even if it still drives—you may qualify under Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law or broader federal warranty laws.

How long do I have to act under Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law?

Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law applies during the first 12 months or 12,000 miles after the original delivery of your new vehicle—whichever comes first. The Lemon Law does not specify how long thereafter you have to file a claim, so it’s likely at least 4 years from delivery. Federal laws like the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act may still apply if your repairs fall outside the state window.

What if I bought a used car—am I still covered?

Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law only applies to new vehicles. But you may still qualify under federal warranty laws if your used or CPO vehicle came with a manufacturer’s warranty or manufacturer’s extended warranty, and repairs happened during the coverage period.

How many times does the dealership have to try to fix the problem before I qualify?

Under Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law, you may qualify if:

• The same issue has been repaired 3 or more times, or
• The vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more calendar days within the first 12 months or 12,000 miles.

Even if you haven’t met those exact criteria, you may still qualify under federal warranty laws.

Who pays my legal fees if I have a case?

If we win or settle, the manufacturer must pay your legal fees and costs. You owe nothing out of pocket. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

Do I have to go to court to win my case?

Not usually. Most lemon law and warranty cases are resolved through direct negotiation with the manufacturer.

Can I file a claim if I’ve only had two repairs?

Yes, under federal and state warranty laws. And possibly even under the state Lemon Law—especially if the problem affects safety or your vehicle has been down for an extended period. Don’t assume—ask us. We’ll evaluate your case for free.

How the Pennsylvania Lemon Law & Warranty Claims Process Works (Step-by-Step)

We’ve made the process as simple and stress-free as possible. Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Free Case Evaluation (Takes Us Approximately 60 Seconds)

You start by submitting basic info about your vehicle and repair history. It’s fast, confidential, and completely free. If we believe you have a case, we’ll move quickly to get things started—no office visit or upfront cost required.

Step 2: Document Collection

The first thing the manufacturer wants is paperwork. We’ll need:

• A copy of your purchase or lease agreement
• Any repair orders or service records
• Vehicle registration

If you don’t have all the records, don’t worry—we’ll help you request them from the dealership or service center.

Step 3: You Sit Back While We Handle Everything (Legal Work, Negotiation, Follow Up, Etc.)

Once we have the necessary documents, our team:

• Builds your legal claim using state and federal warranty laws
• Contacts the manufacturer or dealer directly
• Negotiates to get you a buyback, new vehicle, or cash compensation

Most cases settle without the need for a lawsuit and without going to court.  If your matter does not settle out-of-court, we will discuss filing a lawsuit on your behalf under a separate engagement letter, at the Firm’s sole and absolute discretion.

Step 4: You Get Paid or Your Vehicle Replaced

If successful, you could receive:

• A full refund and buyback (with your loan paid off)
• A new vehicle
• Cash compensation or your money back (normally thousands of dollars)
• Plus, Attorney’s Fees

There’s No Risk to You. We work on a contingency basis, which means we only get paid if you do. If we don’t win, you owe nothing.

Need Help with Your Pennsylvania Lemon Law Case?  Don’t Wait – Get the Answers You Need Today!

If you’re driving a lemon, don’t wait. Time limits apply, and the sooner you act, the better your chances.

Start With a Free, No-Obligation Consultation

If you’re dealing with repeated vehicle problems, take the first step now. Call our FREE “60 Second Lemon Law Assessment™” Hotline at 1-888-LEMONS-1 to speak directly with an experienced lemon law advocate. Once we have the basic information, we’ll evaluate your case in 60 seconds or less.

Prefer online? Fill out our short “60 Second Lemon Law Assessment™” form, and one of our knowledgeable team members will reach out promptly.

No Recovery, No Fee – We Only Succeed When You Succeed!

You’ll never pay out of pocket. And if we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

At Kahn & Associates, there’s no cost and no obligation—just clear answers and real help from a firm with decades of success standing up to car manufacturers.

P.S. Even if you don’t hire us, the information we share could save you thousands and help you make informed decisions about your rights.

PA Lemon Law Summary

This is a summary of the Pennsylvania Lemon Law Statute.  The Federal Lemon Law Statute (or Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) can be found here.

Covered Vehicles:

Vehicles purchased or leased in Pennsylvania used primarily for personal, family or household purposes.

Repair Attempts or Days out of Service:

3 repair attempts – 30 calendar days out of service

Coverage Period:

1 year, 12,000 miles, or duration of warranty, whichever occurs first.

Pennsylvania Lemon Law Statute

This is the actual text of the Pennsylvania Lemon Law Statute.  The Federal Lemon Law Statute (or Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) can be found here.

Title 73, Chapter 28
Trade And Commerce
Automobile Lemon Law

1951 Short title.

This act shall be known and may be cited as the Automobile Lemon Law.

1952 Definitions.

The following words and phrases when used in this act shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Dealer” or “motor vehicle dealer.”

A person in the business of buying, selling or exchanging vehicles.

“Manufacturer.”

Any person engaged in the business of constructing or assembling new and unused motor vehicles or engaged in the business of importing new and unused motor vehicles into the United States for the purpose of selling or distributing new and unused motor vehicles to motor vehicle dealers in this Commonwealth.

“Manufacturer’s express warranty” or “warranty.”

The written warranty of the manufacturer of a new automobile of its condition and fitness for use, including any terms or conditions precedent to the enforcement of obligations under the warranty.

“New motor vehicle.”

Any new and unused self-propelled, motorized conveyance driven upon public roads, streets or highways which is designed to transport not more than 15 persons, which was purchased and is registered in the Commonwealth and is used or bought for use primarily for personal, family or household purposes, including a vehicle used by a manufacturer or dealer as a demonstrator or dealer car prior to its sale. The term does not include motorcycles, motor homes or off-road vehicles.

“Nonconformity.”

A defect or condition which substantially impairs the use, value or safety of a new motor vehicle and does not conform to the manufacturer’s express warranty.

“Purchaser.”

A person, or his successors or assigns, who has obtained ownership of a new motor vehicle by transfer or purchase or who has entered into an agreement or contract for the purchase of a new motor vehicle which is used or bought for use primarily for personal, family or household purposes.

1953 Disclosure.

The Attorney General shall prepare and publish in the Pennsylvania Bulletin a statement which explains a purchaser’s rights under this law. Manufacturers shall provide to each purchaser at the time of original purchase of a new motor vehicle a written statement containing a copy of the Attorney General’s statement and a listing of zone offices, with addresses and phone numbers, which can be contacted by the purchaser for the purpose of securing the remedies provided for in this act.

1954 Repair obligations.

(a) Repairs required. The manufacturer of a new motor vehicle sold and registered in the Commonwealth shall repair or correct, at no cost to the purchaser, a nonconformity which substantially impairs the use, value or safety of said motor vehicle which may occur within a period of one year following the actual delivery of the vehicle to the purchaser, within the first 12,000 miles of use or during the term of the warranty, whichever may first occur.
(b) Delivery of vehicle. It shall be the duty of the purchaser to deliver the nonconforming vehicle to the manufacturer’s authorized service and repair facility within the Commonwealth, unless, due to reasons of size and weight or method of attachment or method of installation or nature of the nonconformity, such delivery cannot reasonably be accomplished. Should the purchaser be unable to effect return of the nonconforming vehicle, he shall notify the manufacturer or its authorized service and repair facility. Written notice of nonconformity to the manufacturer or its authorized service and repair facility shall constitute return of the vehicle when [the] purchaser is unable to return the vehicle due to the nonconformity. Upon receipt of such notice of nonconformity, the manufacturer shall, at its option, service or repair the vehicle at the location of nonconformity or pick up the vehicle for service and repair or arrange for transporting the vehicle to its authorized service and repair facility. All costs of transporting the vehicle when [the] purchaser is unable to effect return, due to nonconformity, shall be at the manufacturer’s expense.

1955 Manufacturer’s duty for refund or replacement.

If the manufacturer fails to repair or correct a nonconformity after a reasonable number of attempts, the manufacturer shall, at the option of the purchaser, replace the motor vehicle with a comparable motor vehicle of equal value or accept return of the vehicle from the purchaser and refund to the purchaser the full purchase price, including all collateral charges, less a reasonable allowance for the purchaser’s use of the vehicle not exceeding the per mile driven or 10% of the purchase price of the vehicle whichever is less. Refunds shall be made to the purchaser and lien holder, if any, as their interests may appear. A reasonable allowance for use shall be that amount directly attributable to use by the purchaser prior to his first report of the nonconformity to the manufacturer. In the event the consumer elects a refund, payment shall be made within 30 days of such election. A consumer shall not be entitled to a refund or replacement if the nonconformity does not substantially impair the use, value or safety of the vehicle or the nonconformity is the result of abuse, neglect or modification or alteration of the motor vehicle by the purchaser.

1956 Presumption of a reasonable number of attempts.

It shall be presumed that a reasonable number of attempts have been undertaken to repair or correct a nonconformity if:

1. the same nonconformity has been subject to repair three times by the manufacturer, its agents or authorized dealers and the nonconformity still exists; or
2. the vehicle is out-of-service by reason of any nonconformity for a cumulative total of 30 or more calendar days.

1957 Itemized statement required.

The manufacturer or dealer shall provide to the purchaser each time the purchaser’s vehicle is returned from being serviced or repaired a fully itemized statement indicating all work performed on said vehicle including, but not limited to, parts and labor. It shall be the duty of a dealer to notify the manufacturer of the existence of a nonconformity within seven days of the delivery by a purchaser of a vehicle subject to a nonconformity when it is delivered to the same dealer for the second time for repair of the same nonconformity. The notification shall be by certified mail, return receipt requested.

1958 Civil cause of action.

Any purchaser of a new motor vehicle who suffers any loss due to nonconformity of such vehicle as a result of the manufacturer’s failure to comply with this act may bring a civil action in a court of common pleas and, in addition to other relief, shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney’s fees and all court costs.

1959 Informal dispute settlement procedure.

If the manufacturer has established an informal dispute settlement procedure which complies with the provisions of 16 CFR Pt. 703, as from time to time amended, the provisions of section 8 shall not apply to any purchaser who has not first resorted to such procedure as it relates to a remedy for defects or conditions affecting the substantial use, value or safety of the vehicle. The informal dispute settlement procedure shall not be binding on the purchaser and, in lieu of such settlement, the purchaser may pursue a remedy under section 8.

1960 Resale of returned motor vehicle.

(a) Vehicles may not be resold.-If a motor vehicle has been returned under the provisions of this act or a similar statute of another state, it may not be resold in this State unless:

1. The manufacturer provides the same express warranty it provided to the original purchaser, except that the term of the warranty need only last for 12,000 miles or 12 months after the date of resale, whichever is earlier.
2. The manufacturer provides the consumer with a written statement on a separate piece of paper, in ten point all capital type, in substantially the following form:
“IMPORTANT: THIS VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO THE MANUFACTURER BECAUSE IT DID NOT CONFORM TO THE MANUFACTURER’S EXPRESS WARRANTY AND THE NON-CONFORMITY WAS NOT CURED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AS PROVIDED BY PENNSYLVANIA LAW.”

The provisions of this section apply to the resold motor vehicle for the full term of the warranty required under this subsection.

(b) Returned vehicles not to be resold.-Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a), if a new motor vehicle has been returned under the provisions of this act or a similar statute of another state because of a nonconformity resulting in a complete failure of the braking or steering system of the motor vehicle likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle was driven, the motor vehicle may not be resold in this Commonwealth.

1961 Application of unfair trade act.

A violation of this act shall also be a violation of the act of December 17, 1968 (P.L. 1224, No. 387), known as the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law.

1962 Rights preserved

Nothing in this act shall limit the purchaser from pursuing any other rights or remedies under any other law, contract or warranty.

1963 Nonwaiver of act.

The provisions of this act shall not be waived.

To take the Lemon Test, call our FREE “60 Second Lemon Law Assessment”™ Hotline at 1-888-LEMONS-1 to speak with an experienced lemon law attorney who, once they obtain all the required information, will evaluate your case in 60 seconds or less or fill out our online“60 Second Lemon Law Assessment*”™ review form and one of our experienced lemon law representatives will contact you.

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Phil L.

2 weeks

Was getting nowhere on a brand new car issue. Manufacturer was unable to correct problem and local attorneys admitted they were not experienced in Lemon Law cases. Reached out to Kahn from website and got an immediate response. Was concerned at the time they were in Ohio and I was in NC. Those fears went away with the help of Vicky Eck and Daniel Scharville. Always got returned phone calls, questions answered and firm action taken. These are the folks to go to with Lemon Law issues. My wife and I were very satisfied with results.

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