Illinois lemon law - Resources

Overview of Illinois Lemon Law

At Allen Stewart, P.C., we understand the frustration and financial strain caused by purchasing a defective vehicle. Illinois Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers who find themselves stuck with a "lemon," a new vehicle that suffers from a defect or condition that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety. This law ensures that consumers have a recourse to either get their vehicle repaired properly, replaced, or refunded.

Eligibility Requirements

Vehicles covered by Illinois Lemon Law

Illinois Lemon Law primarily covers new passenger vehicles, SUVs, vans, and trucks under 8,000 pounds, used for personal, family, or household purposes. To be eligible, the vehicle must have a substantial defect occurring within the first 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first, that the dealer or manufacturer cannot repair after a reasonable number of attempts.

Process for Seeking Recourse Under Illinois Lemon Law

When pursuing a claim, it's crucial to follow specific steps to ensure you are protected under the law. Initially, you must report your vehicle's issue to the manufacturer or its authorized dealer within the warranty period or one year from the vehicle’s delivery date. Keep detailed records of all repairs and communications with the manufacturer, as these will be vital in your claim.

Remedies Available Under Illinois Lemon Law

Under Illinois Lemon Law, consumers may be entitled to a replacement vehicle of comparable value or a full refund of the purchase price, including taxes, registration fees, and minus a reasonable allowance for vehicle use. It's essential to understand your rights and the remedies available to make an informed decision about your next steps.

Steps to Take if You Believe You Have a Lemon Vehicle in Illinois

• Document everything: Save all repair orders, receipts, and written communications with the dealer or manufacturer.
• Report the defect in writing to the manufacturer or dealer.
• Consult with a qualified lemon law attorney to evaluate your case.
• Consider filing a claim under the Illinois Lemon Law if your vehicle meets the law's criteria.

Rights of Consumers Under Illinois Lemon Law

As a consumer, the Illinois Lemon Law grants you the right to a vehicle that performs as warranted. If your vehicle is deemed a lemon, you are eligible for relief which includes replacement, refund, or compensation for damages. Understanding your rights is the first step toward resolving your lemon vehicle issue.

Legal Protections Provided by Illinois Lemon Law

The protections under the Illinois Lemon Law extend beyond the purchase of new vehicles. The law provides a safety net for consumers, ensuring that manufacturers honor their warranties and that defective vehicles are made right. This law empowers consumers to stand up against manufacturers for selling faulty products.

Differences Between Illinois Lemon Law and Federal Lemon Law

The Federal Lemon Law, also known as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, complements state lemon laws by providing additional protection to consumers. Unlike the Illinois Lemon Law, which is specifically tailored to new vehicles, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act covers a broader range of consumer goods, including vehicles, and it applies regardless of mileage or whether the problem occurred within a specific timeframe. This federal law allows consumers to recover attorney’s fees, making it financially feasible to pursue a lemon law claim.

At Allen Stewart, P.C., we believe in your right to a defect-free vehicle. Our team of skilled attorneys has the experience and dedication necessary to navigate the complexities of both Illinois and Federal Lemon Laws. We handle each case with meticulous care, ensuring our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve, without out-of-pocket legal fees. If you suspect your vehicle is a lemon, contact us today for a consultation and let us advocate for your rights.