Lemon Laws in Colorado

What is a Lemon?

A “lemon” is a new vehicle purchased from a registered dealership that is defective. Lemon laws are in place in certain states to protect consumers from buying a vehicle that ends up being a lemon.

Colorado’s Lemon Law covers only new self-propelled vehicles, including pickup trucks and vans. Motorhomes and motorcycles are excluded from Colorado’s Lemon Law.

Here are some key facts to know about lemon laws in Colorado, brought to you by the Bayas Firm.

What is covered by lemon laws in Colorado?

It is a common misconception that lemon laws in Colorado cover all personal vehicles. This is not true. Colorado’s Lemon Law only applies to new vehicles. If you purchase a used vehicle, unfortunately, lemon laws in Colorado do not apply. However, don’t despair. Other laws can and do apply. Book a consultation or call us if you are wondering if Colorado’s laws can protect you.

The Colorado Lemon Law is only enforceable for transactions involving “self-propelled” vehicles. This eliminates purchases of tow-behind vehicles, car carriers, and mounted utility trailers.

The Colorado Lemon Law only applies to new, self-propelled vehicles sold by registered dealerships in the state of Colorado.

Steps before lemon laws in Colorado are enforceable by a state court:

There are conditions outlined by lemon laws in Colorado that must first be met before a state court will take action and a lawsuit can be filed. They include:

Within a 12-month period after the sale of a new vehicle, a defect must occur causing “serious impairment” in the operation of the vehicle. (The law does not apply if 12 months have passed since the purchase)

At least four attempts must be made by the dealer, manufacturer, or certified mechanic to correct the defect before a vehicle can be labeled a “lemon” according to lemon laws in Colorado or the vehicle has to be in the shop for at least 30 business days.

Prior to filing a lawsuit, a written notice of the defect must be sent by Certified Mail to the manufacturer of the vehicle.

If the manufacturer offers an alternative dispute mechanism, you must exhaust that mechanism before you can proceed.

If all four of these stipulations are met, there can be a case for filing a lawsuit against the manufacturer pursuant to lemon laws in Colorado. Typically, the manufacturer’s want to avoid going to court if it’s a good case and may offer to settle the case.

When Should You Consider Hiring an Attorney?

Lemon laws in Colorado might seem straightforward, but they can be complicated.

Manufacturers and new car dealers will do everything in their power to avoid a complete warranty claim, and they have more experience with lemon laws in Colorado than the average consumer.

If you believe your new vehicle purchase qualifies for protection under lemon laws in Colorado, you need an attorney who knows how to get results. If you need an attorney who understands the Colorado Lemon Law, knows how to defend your rights, and knows how to take action in your case, contact the Bayas Firm today.

We look forward to speaking with you!