State lemon law guide
Massachusetts Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in Massachusetts, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
Massachusetts lemon law in one sentence
Under Massachusetts’s lemon law (M.G.L. c. 90 § 7N½), a new vehicle is presumed a lemon if the same defect is not fixed after 3 repair attempts or it has been out of service for 15 business days during the first 1 year or 15,000 miles.
Massachusetts lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- M.G.L. c. 90 § 7N½
- Coverage period
- 1 year or 15,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 3 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- 15 business days
- Used cars covered
- Yes
Massachusetts also has a used-vehicle lemon law (M.G.L. c. 90 § 7N¼).
How to file a lemon law claim in Massachusetts
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet Massachusetts’s threshold: 3 attempts or 15 business days within 1 year or 15,000 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 M.G.L. c. 90 § 7N½. Laws change — confirm with the Massachusetts attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
Massachusetts lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Massachusetts?
3 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under Massachusetts lemon law?
15 business days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does Massachusetts lemon law cover used cars?
Massachusetts also has a used-vehicle lemon law (M.G.L. c. 90 § 7N¼).
How long does Massachusetts lemon law protection last?
1 year or 15,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under Massachusetts 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.