State lemon law guide
South Dakota Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in South Dakota, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
South Dakota lemon law in one sentence
Under South Dakota’s lemon law (SDCL Chapter 32-6D), a new vehicle is presumed a lemon if the same defect is not fixed after 4 repair attempts during the first 1 year or 12,000 miles.
South Dakota lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- SDCL Chapter 32-6D
- Coverage period
- 1 year or 12,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 4 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- No days-out-of-service presumption
- Used cars covered
- No
How to file a lemon law claim in South Dakota
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet South Dakota’s threshold: 4 attempts 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 SDCL Chapter 32-6D. Laws change — confirm with the South Dakota attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
South Dakota lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in South Dakota?
4 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under South Dakota lemon law?
South Dakota has no days-out-of-service presumption; claims rest on repair attempts.
Does South Dakota lemon law cover used cars?
No. South Dakota’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 Dakota 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 Dakota 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.