The issue significantly impairs the vehicle's use, value, or safety . When a Car Becomes a "Lemon"
to fix a defect likely to cause death or serious injury. Your Step-by-Step Guide
💡 You have 5 years from the original delivery date to file a legal claim, but you must have reported the defect within the first year or 18,000 miles. Local Legal Resources & Assistance Event / Resource Ohio Attorney General Guide Official state booklet on Lemon Law rights. Legal Aid Session Fairfield County District Library Free legal advice (Apr 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM). Contract Basics Class Columbus Metropolitan Library Learn how to navigate vehicle contracts (Apr 30, 2026). Expand map Free Legal Assistance State Resources law lemon ohio
If the car isn't fixed, send a certified letter to the manufacturer (not just the dealer) requesting a refund or replacement.
Your vehicle likely qualifies if it meets three of these criteria: The issue significantly impairs the vehicle's use, value,
Take the vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as the problem starts.
Problems occurred within the first 1 year or 18,000 miles (whichever comes first). Local Legal Resources & Assistance Event / Resource
If the manufacturer has an Ohio-certified dispute resolution program, you must usually try this before suing.