State lemon law guide
South Carolina Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in South Carolina, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
South Carolina lemon law in one sentence
Under South Carolina’s lemon law (S.C. Code § 56-28-10 et seq.), 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 30 days during the first 1 year or 12,000 miles.
South Carolina lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- S.C. Code § 56-28-10 et seq.
- Coverage period
- 1 year or 12,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 3 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- 30 days
- Used cars covered
- No
How to file a lemon law claim in South Carolina
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet South Carolina’s threshold: 3 attempts or 30 days within 1 year or 12,000 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 S.C. Code § 56-28-10 et seq.. Laws change — confirm with the South Carolina attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
South Carolina lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in South Carolina?
3 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under South Carolina lemon law?
30 days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does South Carolina lemon law cover used cars?
No. South 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 South Carolina lemon law protection last?
1 year or 12,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under South 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.