State lemon law guide
District of Columbia Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in District of Columbia, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
District of Columbia lemon law in one sentence
Under District of Columbia’s lemon law (D.C. Code § 50-501 et seq.), a new vehicle is presumed a lemon if the same defect is not fixed after 4 repair attempts (or 1 for a defect likely to cause death or serious injury) or it has been out of service for 30 days during the first 2 years or 18,000 miles.
District of Columbia lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- D.C. Code § 50-501 et seq.
- Coverage period
- 2 years or 18,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 4 for the same defect · 1 for a serious safety defect
- Days out of service
- 30 days
- Used cars covered
- No
How to file a lemon law claim in District of Columbia
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet District of Columbia’s threshold: 4 attempts or 30 days within 2 years or 18,000 miles.
- Send written notice to the manufacturer by certified mail and give it a final chance to repair.
- If it is not fixed, request the manufacturer’s arbitration program or contact a lemon law attorney.
Summary of D.C. Code § 50-501 et seq.. Laws change — confirm with the District of Columbia attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
District of Columbia lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in District of Columbia?
4 attempts to fix the same defect, or 1 for a defect that could cause death or serious injury.
How many days out of service qualify under District of Columbia lemon law?
30 days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does District of Columbia lemon law cover used cars?
No. District of Columbia’s lemon law covers new vehicles. Used-car buyers rely on the remaining manufacturer warranty and federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protections.
How long does District of Columbia lemon law protection last?
2 years or 18,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under District of Columbia lemon law?
Usually a replacement vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, minus a reasonable allowance for use, plus collateral costs. Check the statute for state-specific rules on fees and arbitration.