Vehicles used for transportation in Florida are covered under the Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act, often known as the Florida lemon law. The law also applies to rented recreational vehicles if the lessee is liable for maintenance.
Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, recreational vehicles, and trucks with a GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds are not protected by Florida's lemon legislation.
Individuals who buy or lease a vehicle for personal, family, or home use are protected by the lemon law. During the lemon law rights period, everyone who receives the car for the same purposes as the original buyer is also protected by the legislation. The "lemon law rights period" is the time frame of 24 months beginning on the date the consumer was first delivered the automobile.
The lemon law in Florida overview
Fortunately, customers who unknowingly purchase a "lemon" car are protected by federal and state legislation. As reported by US News, these regulations are handled differently in each US state. Florida's lemon law shields new and nearly new car buyers, as well as some RV owners, from having to pay for costly repairs on defective vehicles.
Does the law only apply to new cars?
Florida's lemon legislation covers both brand-new and demonstrator automobiles, which are driven by the dealership but not officially registered in the state. Auto Blog warns customers who are thinking about buying a demo vehicle that they should be aware of the potential hidden costs associated with this decision. Demo vehicles may be cheaper, but you should consider whether the hassles they may cause are worth the savings.
Brand-new automobiles that are either leased or purchased from a Florida dealer are covered under the state's law. The law also encompasses certain pre-owned automobiles but under stricter conditions. If you bought the car from the original owner in Florida and took possession of it within 24 months of the original purchase, you may be eligible for a refund under the state's "lemon law." Vehicles damaged in a collision are not eligible for repairs.
Does the Florida Lemon Law apply to used cars?
Used cars can still be considered "lemons" if they develop significant issues while still covered by the original manufacturer's warranty, any applicable certified pre-owned warranty, or any applicable extended warranty. To conclude, it's important to remember that the Florida Lemon Law does not apply to any used vehicle purchased "as is" and without a warranty.
Relief Under Florida Lemon Law
A successful lemon law claimant in Florida has various alternatives available to them according to the state's lemon legislation. To begin, it is possible that you may be given a new vehicle that is the same year, make, and model as the original. It's also possible that you could be eligible for a monetary award.
