Vermont Lemon Law

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

How does the VT Lemon Law work?

The Vermont Lemon Law covers drivers whose vehicles suffer a nonconformity or defect within the express warranty period, that can't be repaired after repeated attempts (normally 3) by the manufacturers authorized dealership. Click here to review the Vermont Lemon Law Statute.

Does a problem always need to occur three times to be considered a lemon?

Not necessarily. If your car is in the shop 30 days or more in the first year, consecutive or not, we can file a claim under the VT Lemon Law. Likewise, if you are experiencing paint problems, the same kind of problem (electrical, water leak in the back versus water leak in the front, front brakes and then back brakes and then front brakes again), or if it is a significant problem that has occurred twice, we welcome you to submit your information for our consideration. We handle each case separately and we have made exceptions in the past.

How does the Vermont Lemon Law offer cost-free representation?

The Vermont Lemon law contains a fee-shifting provision which means that if the consumer prevails, the manufacturer must pay all attorney fees and legal costs on top of what you receive. If you submit a claim to Kimmel & Silverman, and we accept your case, you will not pay anything out of pocket, win or lose. The fee-shifting provision gives you equal footing when battling against a multi-billion dollar automobile manufacturer.

Are leased cars covered under the Vermont Lemon Law?

Yes. The VT Lemon law covers all cars, vans and trucks (under 12,000 lbs) sold, leased or registered in the state. The Vermont Lemon Law also covers commercial vehicles when the business owns a maximum of two registered or leased vehicles.

Are motorcycles covered under the VT Lemon Law?

No, but we ARE representing Vermont Motorcycle Drivers through the Federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, so if you are experiencing problems with your bike, please do not hesitate to submit your information for our review. We have successfully handled many motorcycle breach of warranty cases throughout the state and we offer the same cost-free representation as we do under the Lemon Law.

I have had my car for only a few days and already I am having problems with it. Can I just return it to the dealership?

No. Problems can occur immediately, but if you are interested in opening a Lemon Law claim, you must follow proper procedures. That means making an appointment to have your car examined and repaired, and securing a repair invoice when you pick up your car. Make sure the invoice properly outlines all of the problems you disclosed to the service manager. We also suggest you keep a personal log of your repair visits and PLEASE HOLD ON TO THE INVOICES. This does not mean that we can't help you if you don't have the invoices (we can subpoena them if necessary) but it does make your case move along smoother. DO NOT JUST DROP OFF YOUR CAR AND KEYS AT A DEALER AND SAY "I DON'T WANT THIS CAR ANYMORE." THEY COULD COUNT IT AS A VOLUNTARY REPOSSESION AND IT COULD NEGATIVELY AFFECT YOUR CREDIT! IF YOU ARE HAVING PROBLEMS, CONSULT A CONSUMER ATTORNEY, BE IT US OR SOMEONE ELSE.

I have so many more questions. Who can I ask?

Ask away. Give us a call at 1-800-LEMON-LAW (1-800-536-6652) 24 hours a day or feel free to e-mail us and we will be glad to get back to you as soon as possible.