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State lemon law guide

Iowa Lemon Law

What counts as a lemon in Iowa, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.

Iowa lemon law in one sentence

Under Iowa’s lemon law (Iowa Code Chapter 322G), 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.

Iowa lemon law at a glance

Statute
Iowa Code Chapter 322G
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
No

How to file a lemon law claim in Iowa

  1. Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
  2. Confirm you meet Iowa’s threshold: 3 attempts or 30 days within 2 years or 24,000 miles.
  3. Send written notice to the manufacturer by certified mail and give it a final chance to repair.
  4. If it is not fixed, request the manufacturer’s arbitration program or contact a lemon law attorney.

Summary of Iowa Code Chapter 322G. Laws change — confirm with the Iowa attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.

Iowa lemon law FAQ

How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Iowa?

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 Iowa lemon law?

30 days for repairs during the coverage period.

Does Iowa lemon law cover used cars?

No. Iowa’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 Iowa 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 Iowa 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.