State lemon law guide
Hawaii Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in Hawaii, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
Hawaii lemon law in one sentence
Under Hawaii’s lemon law (HRS Chapter 481I), a new vehicle is presumed a lemon if the same defect is not fixed after 3 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 24,000 miles.
Hawaii lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- HRS Chapter 481I
- Coverage period
- 2 years or 24,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 3 for the same defect · 1 for a serious safety defect
- Days out of service
- 30 days
- Used cars covered
- Limited
Hawaii’s used-vehicle law (HRS 481J) gives a limited dealer warranty.
How to file a lemon law claim in Hawaii
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet Hawaii’s threshold: 3 attempts or 30 days within 2 years or 24,000 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 HRS Chapter 481I. Laws change — confirm with the Hawaii attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
Hawaii lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Hawaii?
3 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 Hawaii lemon law?
30 days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does Hawaii lemon law cover used cars?
Hawaii’s used-vehicle law (HRS 481J) gives a limited dealer warranty.
How long does Hawaii lemon law protection last?
2 years or 24,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under Hawaii 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.