How to Determine if a Used Car is Protected under New York's Lemon Law

More and more New Yorkers are purchasing pre-owned or used vehicles instead of new ones. With high unemployment and fear of job loss, people just can’t afford the luxury of purchasing a new car. While there is a financial benefit to purchasing or leasing a used car, there is also the risk of getting a car with problems. Fortunately, New Yorkers are able to utilize the Lemon Law to help resolve issues that may arise. It’s important to find out if the car you buy or lease is covered under NY’s Lemon Law. You don’t want to find out at the time of a dispute with the auto dealer that you vehicle doesn’t qualify for Lemon Law coverage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Purchase the car from a New York dealer. In order to be covered by the New York Lemon Law the car has to have been purchase in the state by a New York auto dealer. If you went right across the border to New Jersey assuming the car would be less expensive, and brought it into New York, it’s not be covered by New York’s Lemon Law.

2. Check the mileage. Cars with less than 18,000 miles and over 100,000 miles do not fit the requirement for coverage under New York’s used car Lemon Law. Cars with less than 18,000 miles are covered under the New Car Lemon Law and cars over 100,000 miles are not covered at all.

3. Review the purchase price. Cars purchased for less than $1,500 are not covered.

4. Determine the primary use of the car. The law applies to used vehicles that are used primarily for personal use. Therefore, if you purchase a used car for your business and use it for business use, according to the NY Office of the Attorney General website, this law doesn’t apply.

5. Become familiar with the law. Visit the Office of the Attorney General’s website to find out more details about the Lemon Law and how it applies to used cars. It’s best to be an informed consumer.

Resources

• New York Lemon Law
• Cheap Car Doesn't Have to Mean Old Car

[sweetspirit]

on 8/8/2009 Very informative. Thanks!

[gahazeleyes]

on 6/15/2009 Thanks for good information for people who live in New York.

[GreenMomma]

on 5/29/2009 Great tips!!!