New York Lemon Law — Requirements, Remedies & How to File
New York's lemon law covers new and used vehicles sold or leased with a warranty within 24 months or 18,000 miles. Learn the exact requirements, available remedies, and how to file a claim.
New York Lemon Law Overview
Key Facts — New York Lemon Law
- -Covers used cars sold by dealers with a warranty — strong consumer protection
- -4 repair attempts or 30 days out of service within 24 months/18,000 miles
- -New York General Business Law § 198-a governs the Lemon Law
- -Used car dealers must provide a written warranty under § 198-b
- -State arbitration through NYS AG is free and binding on manufacturer
How to Qualify Under New York Lemon Law
To qualify for lemon law protection in New York, your vehicle generally must meet all of the following criteria:
The vehicle must be new and used vehicles sold or leased with a warranty.
The defect must occur within 24 months or 18,000 miles.
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.
The defect must substantially impair the vehicle's use, value, or safety.
NY Attorney General arbitration program 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