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State lemon law guide

Ohio Lemon Law

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

Ohio lemon law in one sentence

Under Ohio’s lemon law (ORC § 1345.71 et seq.), 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 1 year or 18,000 miles.

Ohio lemon law at a glance

Statute
ORC § 1345.71 et seq.
Coverage period
1 year or 18,000 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 Ohio

  1. Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
  2. Confirm you meet Ohio’s threshold: 3 attempts or 30 days within 1 year or 18,000 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 ORC § 1345.71 et seq.. Laws change — confirm with the Ohio attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.

Ohio lemon law FAQ

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

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 Ohio lemon law?

30 days for repairs during the coverage period.

Does Ohio lemon law cover used cars?

No. Ohio’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 Ohio lemon law protection last?

1 year or 18,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.

What can I get under Ohio 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.