Texas Lemon Law
Texas 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.
Texas Lemon Law applies to new motor vehicles only. Used vehicles are generally not covered unless they came with a written warranty from the dealer.
Lemon Law Thresholds in Texas
Available Remedies
- ✓Repurchase (refund minus reasonable use allowance)
- ✓Replacement vehicle
- ✓Cash settlement
- ✓Note: Texas requires arbitration through the Texas DMV before filing in court
Texas requires consumers to go through the Texas DMV's lemon law process before filing a lawsuit. The State Office of Administrative Hearings conducts hearings. This administrative process can result in repurchase, replacement, or cash reimbursement without court involvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many repair attempts qualify as a lemon in Texas?
4 attempts. Four or more repair attempts for the same defect, OR two repair attempts for a defect that could cause death or serious bodily injury. Must occur during the warranty period.
Does Texas lemon law cover used vehicles?
Generally no. Texas Lemon Law applies to new motor vehicles only. Used vehicles are generally not covered unless they came with a written warranty from the dealer.
How long is the Texas lemon law protection period?
24 months or 24,000 miles. Texas lemon law applies within the first 24 months from purchase OR 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
What remedies can I get under the Texas lemon law?
Repurchase (refund minus reasonable use allowance); Replacement vehicle; Cash settlement; Note: Texas requires arbitration through the Texas DMV before filing in court.
What counts as "out of service" under Texas lemon law?
30 days. 30 or more days total out of service during the first 24 months or 24,000 miles.
How do I file a lemon law claim in Texas?
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 Texas DMV Motor Vehicle Division or proceed to arbitration or court.