State lemon law guide
North Carolina Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in North Carolina, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
North Carolina lemon law in one sentence
Under North Carolina’s lemon law (N.C.G.S. § 20-351 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 20 business days in any 12-month period during the first 24 months or 24,000 miles.
North Carolina lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- N.C.G.S. § 20-351 et seq.
- Coverage period
- 24 months or 24,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 4 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- 20 business days in any 12-month period
- Used cars covered
- No
How to file a lemon law claim in North Carolina
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet North Carolina’s threshold: 4 attempts or 20 business days in any 12-month period within 24 months 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 N.C.G.S. § 20-351 et seq.. Laws change — confirm with the North Carolina attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
North Carolina lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in North Carolina?
4 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under North Carolina lemon law?
20 business days in any 12-month period for repairs during the coverage period.
Does North Carolina lemon law cover used cars?
No. North Carolina’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 North Carolina lemon law protection last?
24 months or 24,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under North Carolina 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.