Florida Lemon Law: when it applies—and when it doesn't

What the lemon law protects, what it doesn't, and what rights you keep when you buy used. With the state's exact deadlines.

This guide summarizes the recorded scope for Florida (Florida Statutes, chapter 681). Eligibility, deadlines and notice requirements depend on the law and applicable coverage; read the state conditions below, including used-vehicle conditions where relevant.

What it covers

Eligible new or demonstrator vehicles sold in Florida, and qualifying leases. Covered leases are lease-purchase agreements or leases of at least one year that make the lessee responsible for repairs. The vehicle must be primarily for personal, family or household use; defects must substantially impair use, value or safety.

Rights period: The rights period ends 24 months after original delivery to the first consumer. Certain direct consumer-to-consumer transfers within that period may qualify if both consumers use the vehicle for personal, family or household purposes and the other requirements are met. A used purchase does not restart the clock.

When it is presumed a lemon

Three unsuccessful repair attempts for the same defect, plus written notice to the manufacturer and a final attempt that also fails; or 30 cumulative days out of service, with written notice after the first 15.

The presumption does not replace the other requirements. Check the official conditions and procedure for your situation.

The process

First the manufacturer's dispute program if it is state-certified (must decide within 40 days); then arbitration before the Florida New Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board (Attorney General), requested up to 60 days after the 24-month period ends and usually heard within 40 days.

Who handles it: Florida Attorney General — New Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board.

Hotline: 800-321-5366 (in Florida) · 850-414-3500.

What you get if you win

Replacement or refund, at the consumer's choice, including collateral charges, minus an offset for miles used.

What it does not cover

Motorcycles, mopeds and electric bicycles; trucks over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight; off-road vehicles and vehicles that run only upon tracks (F.S. § 681.102). It also does not cover used cars outside the first owner’s 24 months; defects from accident, abuse or modifications; towable RVs and the living quarters of motorized RVs; or vehicles bought for resale.

I bought used: what do I have left

More than it seems, even if it isn't the lemon law:

• The Buyers Guide (FTC). The guide states the dealer warranty. "As Is" describes that warranty; it does not by itself resolve other state-law rights or remaining manufacturer coverage. The federal rule applies in 48 states (Maine and Wisconsin have their own equivalent rules). If the sale is conducted in Spanish, the dealer must post a Spanish-language Buyers Guide.
• Remaining manufacturer warranty. Check the warranty contract and its duration and transfer conditions; vehicle age does not guarantee coverage.
• In Florida: Mandatory disclosure of brands and prior use (F.S. 319.14); list of deceptive practices barred for dealers (F.S. 501.976), enforceable through FLHSMV and the Attorney General; implied warranty unless the dealer excludes it in writing with "As Is".