Rhode Island Lemon Law - FAQ's

This is a brief section describing some frequently asked questions concerning the Rhode Island Lemon Law. If you suspect that your new or leased car is a lemon, then check out the Rhode Island Lemon Law frequently asked questions below.

Q: How many times does my vehicle has to be repaired for the same thing before its considered a lemon?

A: Generally, 4 times within 15,000 miles or one year.

Q: How long does my car or truck have to be in the shop before it is considered a lemon?

A: If your vehicle has been in the shop for 30 calendar days during any 12-month period or the first 15,000 miles of your warranty, it is probably a lemon.

Q: How long does the dealer have to fix my car?

A: Generally, not more than 30 cumulative calendar days. But, in some cases, the dealer may have an extra 7 days to comply.

Q: I want my money back from my lemon. Will the dealer refund the entire amount?

A: Not likely. The Rhode Island Attorney General's office defines a "reasonable allowance for use" which means that the number of miles on your car will be deducted from how much money the manufacturer is obligated to pay. In theory, because you were able to drive your car and "use" it some you will still have to pay for its usage and the rest will be refunded or they will give you a comparable car.

Q: I don't want to contact an attorney. What other alternatives do I have?

A: The first two options are through the dealer and through the Rhode Island Attorney General's office. The dealership may have set up an informal dispute settlement procedure in the contract you signed to own or lease the vehicle. If this does not work out to the consumer's satisfaction, then the Rhode Island Attorney General's office has set up a motor vehicle arbitration board to hear the dispute. At this phase, many people shy away from contacting attorneys, though this is exactly what the Rhode Island Attorney General's office recommends. Many times, when manufacturers know that a consumer has an attorney, the matter will be settled quickly and without going to arbitration or court. Manufacturers realize that if they lose to the Rhode Island motor vehicle arbitration board they could be liable not only for current damages plus attorneys fees, but also $25 per day in ongoing damages.

Q: I have a leased vehicle, so what should I do?

A: Leased cars and vehicles in Rhode Island fall under the same consumer lemon law protection statutes as new cars and vehicles. Check out the Rhode Island Lemon Law Statute section for more details.

Q: Are there lemon laws for used cars?

A: Yes, unlike some other states, Rhode Island does have lemon laws for used cars. See the Rhode Island Lemon Law Used Cars section for more details.

Rhode Island Lemon Laws were set in motion to protect you, the consumer. Find out the specifics of what you need to know about the Rhode Island Lemon Laws on this website. If all else fails you may need to contact a Rhode Island Lemon Law attorney to seek the compensation you deserve.