Colorado Lemon Law: 4 Things to Know Before Buying a Car 

It goes without saying that buying a car can be stressful for many different reasons. It’s not easy to make sense of all your choices and finally settle on an option that fits both your budget and your needs. And naturally, everyone worries about winding up stuck with a vehicle that turns out to be nothing but trouble – a total lemon.

Thankfully, there are laws out there – such as the Colorado Lemon Law – meant to protect consumers from exactly that scenario. However, it’s important to know specifics as to what such laws do and don’t cover before you finalize a purchase. Here are some key examples.

1. Lemon laws aren’t the same in every state

The good news is that all fifty states have a lemon law on the books. There’s also a federal lemon law in place. However, it’s important to understand that state lemon laws and what they cover can vary quite a bit.

For example, Colorado’s lemon law only covers new purchases, so it’s not going to apply if someone suckers you into buying an old beater on Craigslist or eBay. Make sure you know the law in your state instead of assuming it’s the same as it is somewhere else you may have lived.

2. You have to give the manufacturer a chance to fix things

Contrary to what some people believe, you can’t simply file a lawsuit the minute you realize there’s an issue with a new car. Yes, it’s perfectly reasonable to expect a brand-new vehicle to be in perfect working condition, but it’s also important to know defects happen sometimes.

According to Colorado law, the manufacturer must first make a reasonable attempt to rectify the issue. In most cases, a “reasonable attempt” would be up to three or four repair sessions. They may also have the right to request a final attempt once a formal complaint is filed.

3. Lemon laws don’t apply indefinitely

For a lemon law to cover a particular purchase situation in Colorado, the vehicle must have been purchased (and received) within the last year. Alternatively, the warranty can be no more than six months expired.

So, if you’re concerned you may have unwittingly purchased a lemon car, time is of the essence. Start the process of figuring things out sooner rather than later.

4. Lemon laws only apply to major issues

It’s only natural to expect a brand-new car you just drove off the lot to be perfect in every way, but it’s important to note that not every flaw qualifies you for protection under state lemon laws.

For example, in Colorado, the issue in question must be substantial – something that dramatically impacts your driving experience or the safety of the vehicle. Examples include brake problems, steering issues, or serious engine problems.

However, if you do find your new vehicle has cosmetic issues, problems with any extra features you ordered, and so forth, you may be able to seek compensation under the Federal Lemon Law instead.

If you are thinking seriously about pursuing compensation under the Colorado Lemon Law, consider seeking legal representation from an experienced local attorney or law firm specializing in cases like yours. It’s the best way to protect your rights and guarantee you get everything you’re entitled to under the law.