Illinois Lemon Law

Illinois has a Lemon Law that some residents are aware of while others are not. This law was developed and passed to help with protecting drivers that purchase newer vehicles.

For any driver who is under the impression their newly purchased car is simply put, a lemon, chances are, you’re protected under this law. To be considered a lemon, your car must:

  • Go longer than 30 days of being non-operational
  • Has not been repaired for an issue from either the dealer or manufacturer where the car was purchased from after 4 various attempts
  • The issue affects safety of the driver
What Vehicles Are Covered Under the Lemon Law?

Lemon Law covers:

  • Vehicles that are newly purchased or leased
  • Vans or trucks weighing less than 8,000 pounds
  • Recreational vehicles, not including trailers
  • Cars within 12,000 miles or first 12 months
What Isn’t Covered?

  • Used vehicle purchases
  • Boat purchases
  • Altered vehicles
  • Motorcycles
How Exactly Does the Lemon Law Work?

There are certain processes and requirements that need to be met before a Lemon Law claim can be filed. First off, you are going to have to cooperate and participate in Industry Third Party Dispute Resolution Program. Once your vehicle is purchased, it’s going to be equipped with an owner’s manual. You will be able to learn more about this program in your manual. In order for you to begin this type of a claim, you need to get in contact with the car manufacturer that has been assigned to your vehicle. They are responsible for sending all necessary paperwork.

Filing a Lemon Law Claim

In order to make a claim, you need to have it done before 12 months of the purchase date of the car.

  • File with a representative
  • Your claim will be reviewed and then a decision will be made
In the case your claim is awarded, you will be offered:

  • Your car will be purchased back from your possession from the manufacturer, minus miles used by you
  • Awarded a replacement car that is the same as yours or a similar valued one
  • Should you be dissatisfied, you are able to file civil action based on your rights. The car manufacturer is not allowed to dispute this decision
Are There Other Options?

  • There are various other laws which deal more with warranties of newer products
  • Consult with your attorney or lawyer before making a decision and to help determine what actions to take
  • Keep records regarding your repairs as well as why the repair was needed. These notes and records are going to help you win your claim.
Chicago 1-800-386-5438 TTY: 1-800-964-3013 Springfield 1-800-243-0618 TTY: 1-877-844-5461 Carbondale 1-800-243-0607 TTY: 1-877-785-9339