What are the possible outcomes if I have a “Lemon law” hearing?

On Behalf of | Feb 22, 2021 | Lemon Law

We expect the new or used cars we buy are in good working condition, especially if they are relatively new or have a low mileage. Under Connecticut’s “Lemon Law” if you were sold a defective vehicle that is either at or under two years old or has a mileage at or under 24,000, you may be able to participate in an informal arbitration proceeding in order to receive a remedy from the manufacturer for your defective automobile. The following are some outcomes you may expect following such a hearing.

A favorable decision

If the decision is made in your favor, there are two possible outcomes. Either you will be awarded a comparable new replacement vehicle, or you may be awarded a refund of your contract price. Depending on the circumstances, the arbitrator has the discretion to determine whether a mileage deduction should be assessed. It is important to remember that each case will be determined on its own merits and there are no fixed rules for remedies.

A “no action” decision

If the arbitrator determines that the defects in the vehicle you were sold do not substantially affect the use, safety or value of the automobile, you will be issued a “no action” decision. This means that the manufacturer is not required by the arbitrator to fix the problem. At this point, the next step is to pursue litigation in court against the manufacturer if appropriate.

Learn more about Connecticut’s “Lemon Law”

Learning you purchased a “lemon” can be very upsetting, especially since for most people in Connecticut a car is a major purchase. For this reason, Connecticut has a “Lemon Law” to protect consumers. Our firm’s website on Connecticut’s “Lemon Law” has more information that may be useful to those who want to learn more about this topic.