State lemon law guide
Rhode Island Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in Rhode Island, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
Rhode Island lemon law in one sentence
Under Rhode Island’s lemon law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-5.2), 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 days during the first 1 year or 15,000 miles.
Rhode Island lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-5.2
- Coverage period
- 1 year or 15,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 4 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- 30 days
- Used cars covered
- Yes
Rhode Island has a used-vehicle lemon law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-5.4).
How to file a lemon law claim in Rhode Island
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet Rhode Island’s threshold: 4 attempts or 30 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 R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-5.2. Laws change — confirm with the Rhode Island attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
Rhode Island lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Rhode Island?
4 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under Rhode Island lemon law?
30 days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does Rhode Island lemon law cover used cars?
Rhode Island has a used-vehicle lemon law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-5.4).
How long does Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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.