Attorney General Ashley Moody has announced that Florida's Lemon Law Arbitration Division has celebrated a milestone of more than half a billion dollars in relief for Floridians during National Consumer Protection Week. The Lemon Law, officially known as the Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act, provides protection for consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles through an arbitration process.
Moody emphasized the importance of the Lemon Law, stating, "This National Consumer Protection Week, we are celebrating more than half a billion dollars in relief obtained by our Lemon Law Arbitration Division. The Florida Lemon Law exists to protect consumers who purchase a new vehicle that turns out to be a dud. I’m also urging Floridians to be aware of this available recourse in the event they purchase a ‘lemon’ vehicle."
Since 1989, the Lemon Law Arbitration Program has secured over $500 million in refunds or replacement vehicles for consumers who have purchased defective new vehicles. Consumers who purchase or long-term lease new or demonstrator vehicles in Florida are covered by the Lemon Law. A $2 fee paid upon purchase or lease supports avenues for potential refund or replacement relief in case of a defective vehicle.
Attorney General Moody provided advice for consumers who find themselves dealing with a lemon vehicle. She recommended keeping records of repairs, notifying the manufacturer in writing if the problem persists, and knowing their rights under Florida law to obtain a refund or replacement vehicle if necessary.
Dealers are mandated to provide consumers with the Consumer Guide to the Florida Lemon Law, which explains consumer rights and outlines steps to resolve issues. The guide includes contact information for the Lemon Law Hotline and a form for consumers to notify manufacturers of repair failures.
For those in need of assistance or looking to start a claim, consumers can contact the Florida Lemon Law Hotline at 1(800) 321-5366 or visit MyFloridaLegal.com for additional information about Florida’s Lemon Law.