CONSUMER RIGHTS

Illinois Lemon Law — Requirements, Remedies & How to File

Illinois's lemon law covers new vehicles only within 12 months or 12,000 miles. Learn the exact requirements, available remedies, and how to file a claim.

4
Repair attempts required
30
Cumulative days out of service
12 months
Coverage window

Illinois Lemon Law Overview

Covered VehiclesNew vehicles only
Coverage Period12 months or 12,000 miles
Repair Attempts4 attempts for the same defect
Days Out of Service30 cumulative days
RemedyReplacement or refund
ArbitrationAttorney General arbitration available

Key Facts — Illinois Lemon Law

  • -Illinois New Vehicle Buyer Protection Act (815 ILCS 380) applies
  • -4 repair attempts or 30 cumulative days out of service
  • -Covers motorcycles and motor homes (living quarters excluded)
  • -Does not cover used vehicles

How to Qualify Under Illinois Lemon Law

To qualify for lemon law protection in Illinois, your vehicle generally must meet all of the following criteria:

1

The vehicle must be new vehicles only.

2

The defect must occur within 12 months or 12,000 miles.

3

Either 4 or more repair attempts for the same defect must have occurred, OR the vehicle must have been out of service for 30+ cumulative days.

4

The defect must substantially impair the vehicle's use, value, or safety.

5

Attorney General arbitration available.

Check Your Vehicle's History Before Filing

A free VIN report documents your vehicle's recall history, complaint patterns, and service records — useful evidence when pursuing a lemon law claim.

Free VIN Report

Frequently Asked Questions — Illinois

What is the Illinois lemon law time limit?
The defect must appear within 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.