Buying a new car is supposed to bring peace of mind — but what if your vehicle turns out to be a lemon?
If your new car is constantly in the repair shop or has serious safety issues, Nevada’s Lemon Law might protect you. This guide explains exactly what to do if you bought a faulty car in Nevada, what qualifies as a lemon, and how to pursue a refund or replacement.
🚗 What Is the Nevada Lemon Law?
Nevada’s Lemon Law protects buyers of new vehicles that turn out to have serious defects which cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts.
🛑 In simple terms:
If your new car has a major defect and the manufacturer can’t fix it within a reasonable number of tries, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or full refund.
✅ What Vehicles Are Covered?
Under NRS 597.600 – 597.688, Nevada’s Lemon Law applies to:
- New vehicles purchased or leased in Nevada
- Passenger vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans
- Vehicles weighing under 10,000 lbs
- Purchased primarily for personal, family, or household use
🔺 Used cars are not covered by the Lemon Law in Nevada — unless they are still under the manufacturer’s original warranty.
🛠️ What Qualifies as a “Lemon” in Nevada?
To qualify, your vehicle must meet all of the following:
- Serious defect that impairs use, safety, or value
- The defect appears within the first 12 months or before 12,000 miles, whichever comes first
- Manufacturer/dealer has been given a reasonable number of repair attempts
🚧 What counts as a “reasonable number”?
- 4 or more attempts to repair the same issue, OR
- The vehicle is out of service for 30 or more cumulative days for any number of issues
📄 Steps to Take If You Bought a Faulty Car in Nevada
Step 1: Keep Detailed Records
Maintain:
- Repair invoices and work orders
- Dates and durations of service
- Communication with dealer or manufacturer
Step 2: Notify the Manufacturer
Send a written complaint (preferably certified mail) to the manufacturer. Include:
- VIN number
- Description of the defect
- Dates and proof of previous repair attempts
📌 Most manufacturers have a specific address for Lemon Law claims — check your vehicle’s manual or the manufacturer’s website.
Step 3: Allow Final Repair Attempt
Nevada requires you to give the manufacturer one final chance to repair the issue after official notice. If they fail, you may proceed with a claim.
⚖️ What Are Your Legal Remedies?
If the manufacturer fails to fix the issue, you may be entitled to:
- Replacement vehicle of equal value, or
- Full refund, including taxes, registration, and other fees (minus mileage deduction)
🧾 How to File a Lemon Law Claim in Nevada
You can:
- Request mediation or arbitration through the manufacturer’s dispute program (many are BBB Auto Line certified)
- Hire a lemon law attorney to help you file a lawsuit under Nevada’s Lemon Law statutes
💡 Nevada law allows recovery of attorney’s fees and court costs if you win.
❓ Does Nevada Lemon Law Cover Used Cars?
No, Nevada Lemon Law does not apply to used cars unless:
- The vehicle is still within the original manufacturer’s warranty period
- The same defect arises within 12 months or 12,000 miles from original delivery
For used cars, you may still have rights under:
- Implied warranty laws
- Fraud or misrepresentation statutes
- Dealer warranty agreements
💡 Pro Tips to Protect Yourself
| Time limits apply to Lemon Law claims | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Always test drive before buying | Helps spot obvious defects |
| Ask for a written warranty | Especially with used cars |
| Get everything in writing | Conversations mean little in court |
| Know your deadlines | Time limits apply to Lemon Law claim |
Need Legal Help?
NevadaLegalAdvisor.com helps you understand your rights. If your car qualifies as a lemon, you don’t have to fight it alone. Browse our legal resources or contact us for a list of Nevada Lemon Law attorneys.
📧 Email: hello@nevadalegaladvisor.com
Related Articles:
- [How to File a Small Claims Case in Nevada]
- [Top Legal Mistakes Nevada Business Owners Make]
- [Nevada Used Car Buyer Rights: What You Should Know]
Final Thoughts
Buying a car should bring freedom, not frustration. If your new vehicle turns into a mechanical nightmare, Nevada’s Lemon Law gives you legal power to demand fairness. Know your rights, act quickly, and always document everything.
