State lemon law guide
Montana Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in Montana, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
Montana lemon law in one sentence
Under Montana’s lemon law (Mont. Code § 61-4-501 et seq.), 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 business days during the first 2 years or 18,000 miles.
Montana lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- Mont. Code § 61-4-501 et seq.
- Coverage period
- 2 years or 18,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 4 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- 30 business days
- Used cars covered
- No
How to file a lemon law claim in Montana
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet Montana’s threshold: 4 attempts or 30 business 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 Mont. Code § 61-4-501 et seq.. Laws change — confirm with the Montana attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
Montana lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Montana?
4 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under Montana lemon law?
30 business days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does Montana lemon law cover used cars?
No. Montana’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 Montana 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 Montana 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.