Texas Lemon Law on 4 Wheelers

Four-wheelers are meant for having fun, not breaking down.

Most state lemon laws limit the types of vehicles that are covered to automobiles. But the law's bigger in Texas, where all-terrain vehicles—also known as four-wheelers—titled and registered in the state are covered.

Warranty

For an ATV to be legally considered a lemon, its defects must be covered under the manufacturer's warranty. If the four-wheeler has a malfunction that substantially reduces its value or can endanger lives, it is also considered a lemon.

Coverage

Texas' lemon law requires that any problems with a four-wheeler be brought to the manufacturer's attention either within the warranty period or within two years or 24,000 miles of the vehicle's original delivery date. The law does not cover extended warranties.

Repairs

All four-wheeler repairs should be made by the dealership. Keep all receipts. If the repair cannot be made after four attempts, the four-wheeler is a lemon. Keep track of how many days it is not running. It is a lemon if it does not run for 30 days or more within one year.

Processes

The manufacturer will pay for the repairs. If it is a lemon, the manufacturer will have to replace it or refund the consumer's money. A written request, along with all repair documentation, should be sent to the dealership. The dealership should respond within 60 days.

Resolutions

For a $35 fee (as of July 2010), the state will assign a case adviser who will attempt informal mediation. Failing that, the matter will go before an administrative law judge. Manufacturers also may have a dispute resolution process for unhappy consumers. If all else fails, you can file a civil suit against the manufacturer.

References

• Your Lemon Law Rights: Texas Lemon Law