Does Lemon Law Apply to Used Cars in Indiana?

Does the “lemon law” apply to used cars in Carmel or Noblesville? First, let’s take a step back and define some terms. A “lemon law” is designed to protect buyers from vehicles that do not meet basic standards. This law generally applies to new cars, but some states also offer protection for used cars – including Indiana. Get to know the terms of the used car lemon law, and get more car buying tips from our experts at Penske Chevrolet!

How Do Lemon Laws Work?

In the United States, buyers are protected by both a federal lemon law and any state laws that might apply. In Indiana, the “Motor Vehicle Protection Act” requires that the buyer report the problem within 18 months of ownership and allow the dealers at least four attempts to correct the problem. If the problem is not fixed, the buyer will send a written notice of the issues and receipts from the repairs to the manufacturer. If accepted, the manufacturer will have 30 days to replace the vehicle or refund your money. 

Does Indiana Have a Lemon Law for Used Cars?

Does Indiana have a lemon law for used cars? Indiana does have a lemon law called the Motor Vehicle Protection Act. It doesn’t differentiate between new and used cars, as long as the warranty is still in effect and the car has no more than 18,000 miles on the odometer. While passenger cars are included, other vehicles like motorcycles and semi-trucks are not.

Keep in mind that lemon laws can be complicated, and some drivers have found difficulties seeking reimbursement. We recommend buying from reputable dealerships to avoid the hassle if possible. Sellers are required to disclose any major accidents and report accurate mileage, but if you shop the private market, you’ll have to simply trust that your seller is giving you accurate information.

How to Avoid Lemons in Westfield

Now you’re familiar with the terms of the Indiana lemon law on used cars. But, how do you avoid buying a lemon in the first place? Shop with caution! Here are some things to consider when buying used:

• Inspection: Take a good look at the vehicle, inside and out, and note any imperfections that you see.
• Test Drive: Take a thorough test drive in the car. See how it starts up and how it performs on different roads, and make sure everything feels comfortable.
• Mechanic: If the vehicle looks promising, get a mechanic to take a look under the hood. A trained professional can spot small things that you might have missed at first glance. 

Shop Used Cars at Penske Chevrolet! 

Now you know all about the Indiana lemon law for used cars, but if you want to avoid all the stress in the first place, stop by Penske Chevrolet to start shopping! We handpick our used inventory for quality and reliability, and we stand by our inventory 100%. Contact us to learn more about the used car lemon law or buying a car in Indianapolis. You can also just stop by our showroom!