State lemon law guide
Tennessee Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in Tennessee, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
Tennessee lemon law in one sentence
Under Tennessee’s lemon law (Tenn. Code § 55-24-201 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 30 days during the first 1 year.
Tennessee lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- Tenn. Code § 55-24-201 et seq.
- Coverage period
- 1 year
- Repair attempts
- 4 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- 30 days
- Used cars covered
- No
How to file a lemon law claim in Tennessee
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet Tennessee’s threshold: 4 attempts or 30 days within 1 year.
- 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 Tenn. Code § 55-24-201 et seq.. Laws change — confirm with the Tennessee attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
Tennessee lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Tennessee?
4 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under Tennessee lemon law?
30 days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does Tennessee lemon law cover used cars?
No. Tennessee’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 Tennessee lemon law protection last?
1 year after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under Tennessee 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.