Massachusetts lemon law

Source: M.G.L. c. 90, § 7N1/2 (New Car Lemon Law)

Massachusetts has three separate motor vehicle consumer-protection statutes. The New Car Lemon Law (M.G.L. c. 90, section 7N1/2) covers any new car, motorcycle, van, or truck bought in Massachusetts from a new-car dealer for personal or family use, for a 'term of protection' of one year or 15,000 miles, whichever comes first. A lemon is defined as a vehicle with a defect that substantially impairs use, market value, or safety and has not been repaired after a reasonable number of attempts (three attempts for the same defect, or 15 business days out of service, per M.G.L. c.90 § 7N1/2(4)). If the defect persists, the consumer is entitled to a refund or replacement, enforceable through free state-certified arbitration. A separate Used Vehicle Warranty Law (c. 90 section 7N1/4) covers dealer-sold used cars on a sliding mileage-based warranty scale, and a separate Lemon Aid Law (c. 90 section 7N) lets a buyer void a sale within 7 days if the vehicle fails state safety inspection and repairs would exceed 10% of the purchase price. The statute excludes auto homes, vehicles built primarily for off-road use, and vehicles used primarily for business purposes.