Most new cars are fine. But if yours has a serious problem the dealer can't seem to fix, Florida's Lemon Law may require the manufacturer to replace it or refund your money. The rules have deadlines, so it helps to know them early.
Who it covers
Florida's Lemon Law covers new and demonstrator vehicles bought or leased in Florida for personal, family or household use. It applies to problems reported during the Lemon Law rights period: the first 24 months after the vehicle was delivered to its first owner. If you bought the car from someone else within that window, you may still be covered. Used cars bought after that window generally aren't.
The problem has to be a defect or condition that substantially impairs the car's use, value or safety. A squeaky trim piece usually won't qualify. Brakes, steering, the engine or the transmission problems often do.
When a car may be a lemon
The law presumes the manufacturer had a reasonable chance to fix the car if, during the rights period:
- The same defect was repaired three or more times by an authorized dealer and still isn't fixed, and you gave the manufacturer written notice and a final chance to repair it, or
- The car was out of service for repairs for 30 or more total days (60 for RVs).
Steps to protect yourself
- Keep every repair order. Make sure each one describes your complaint and lists the dates in and out of the shop.
- After three repair attempts for the same problem, or 15 total days in the shop, send written notice to the manufacturer by registered or express mail. The address is usually in your owner's manual or warranty booklet.
- Once the manufacturer receives the car for its final repair attempt, it has 10 days to fix it.
- If it's still not fixed, you can seek arbitration. Many manufacturers have a state-certified program. If not, you can file with the Florida New Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board.
- Don't wait. A claim has to be filed no later than 60 days after the 24-month rights period ends.
Free help
The Florida Attorney General's Lemon Law hotline is 1-800-321-5366. They can explain the process and send you the forms. Service members can also ask their installation's legal assistance office for a free review. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
Last reviewed October 2026. Fees and rules can change — confirm current amounts with the Bay County Tax Collector or your lender before you buy. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.