State lemon law guide
Indiana Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in Indiana, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
Indiana lemon law in one sentence
Under Indiana’s lemon law (Ind. Code § 24-5-13), a new vehicle is presumed a lemon if the same defect is not fixed after 4 repair attempts or it has been out of service for 30 days during the first 18 months or 18,000 miles.
Indiana lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- Ind. Code § 24-5-13
- Coverage period
- 18 months or 18,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 4 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- 30 days
- Used cars covered
- No
How to file a lemon law claim in Indiana
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet Indiana’s threshold: 4 attempts or 30 days within 18 months 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 Ind. Code § 24-5-13. Laws change — confirm with the Indiana attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
Indiana lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Indiana?
4 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under Indiana lemon law?
30 days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does Indiana lemon law cover used cars?
No. Indiana’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 Indiana lemon law protection last?
18 months or 18,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under Indiana 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.