Car Buy-Back (Lemon Law) Program in Ohio
If your vehicle has repeated defects, Ohio lemon law may entitle you to a full buy-back from the manufacturer. Here's exactly how the process works.
Quick Reference
Governing Statute
Ohio Lemon Law (Ohio Revised Code §1345.71-.77)
Ohio Lemon Law administered by Ohio AG. Manufacturer-funded arbitration required before suit.
Eligibility Window
12 months / 18,000 miles
Ohio Lemon Law applies to nonconformities reported within 1 year of delivery or 18,000 miles.
Repair Attempt Threshold
3+ attempts OR 8 days out of service for serious safety; 30+ days total
Ohio: 3 attempts on same defect, or 8 cumulative days out for serious safety defects, or 30 cumulative days out total.
Buy-Back Amount
Refund (price + sales tax + fees) or replacement, usage offset applies
Ohio refund includes purchase price + sales tax + finance charges + collateral charges, minus reasonable usage offset.
Arbitration Process
Yes — manufacturer-funded arbitration required before suit
Ohio requires participation in manufacturer-sponsored arbitration (typically NCDS or BBB Auto Line) before filing suit.
Resale Disclosure After Buy-Back
Required — Ohio brands "Manufacturer Buyback" on title
Ohio brands lemon law buy-backs on title. CSPA applies to non-disclosure violations with treble damages.
Ohio Standout Rule
Frequently Asked Questions
What law governs car buy-back in Ohio?
Ohio Lemon Law (Ohio Revised Code §1345.71-.77). Ohio Lemon Law administered by Ohio AG. Manufacturer-funded arbitration required before suit.
When am I eligible for a buy-back in Ohio?
12 months / 18,000 miles. Ohio Lemon Law applies to nonconformities reported within 1 year of delivery or 18,000 miles.
How many repair attempts trigger buy-back in Ohio?
3+ attempts OR 8 days out of service for serious safety; 30+ days total. Ohio: 3 attempts on same defect, or 8 cumulative days out for serious safety defects, or 30 cumulative days out total.
How much will the manufacturer refund in Ohio?
Refund (price + sales tax + fees) or replacement, usage offset applies. Ohio refund includes purchase price + sales tax + finance charges + collateral charges, minus reasonable usage offset.
Do I have to arbitrate first in Ohio?
Yes — manufacturer-funded arbitration required before suit. Ohio requires participation in manufacturer-sponsored arbitration (typically NCDS or BBB Auto Line) before filing suit.
Selling a Lemon-Branded Vehicle?
If you're reselling a vehicle that was bought back under lemon law, Ohiorequires written disclosure. A bill of sale documents the disclosure.
Generate Bill of SaleThis page is informational only and not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a Ohio lemon law attorney. Source: Ohio Attorney General — Lemon Law.