Ohio Lemon Law
Ohio lemon law protections for defective vehicles — how many repair attempts qualify, the coverage period, and what refund or replacement you can demand.
Standard state lemon law protection.
Ohio Lemon Law covers new passenger vehicles only. Used vehicles may have remedies under Ohio consumer protection law if misrepresented.
Lemon Law Thresholds in Ohio
Available Remedies
- ✓Full refund (purchase price, all fees, finance charges, minus allowance for use)
- ✓Replacement vehicle
- ✓Attorney fees if consumer prevails
Ohio requires consumers to give the manufacturer a reasonable opportunity to repair (which the 3-attempt or 30-day rule establishes) before filing a lemon law claim. Most manufacturers respond promptly once formal notice is sent by certified mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many repair attempts qualify as a lemon in Ohio?
3 attempts. Three or more repair attempts for the same nonconformity that substantially impairs the vehicle's use, value, or safety. One attempt if the defect could cause death or serious injury.
Does Ohio lemon law cover used vehicles?
Generally no. Ohio Lemon Law covers new passenger vehicles only. Used vehicles may have remedies under Ohio consumer protection law if misrepresented.
How long is the Ohio lemon law protection period?
12 months or 18,000 miles. Ohio lemon law applies within 1 year of delivery or 18,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
What remedies can I get under the Ohio lemon law?
Full refund (purchase price, all fees, finance charges, minus allowance for use); Replacement vehicle; Attorney fees if consumer prevails.
What counts as "out of service" under Ohio lemon law?
30 days. 30 or more calendar days (not necessarily consecutive) out of service during the protection period.
How do I file a lemon law claim in Ohio?
Start by documenting all repair attempts with written records from the dealer. Send a certified letter to the manufacturer notifying them of the defect and your lemon law claim. If the manufacturer does not resolve it, you can file with Ohio Attorney General — Consumer Protection or proceed to arbitration or court.