Lemons are no fun and they always end up costing more money than they are worth. Auto repair can help the current problem but there are usually many more that follow.
Whether you buy your next car used or new, there is only so much you can do to protect yourself. Getting a good warranty is a nice first step, but while it will save you from spending a fortune on auto repair, it won't save you from the inconvenience and frustration that comes with buying a lemon. Some cars simply come off the factory line unprepared to be driven. And when those cars wind up in the hands of a consumer, it can result in a great deal of anger and resentment. Here's what you can do if you find yourself in such a situation.
If you purchase a car with a typical 90 day warranty, you're likely to be out of luck when it comes to using it as a protection against your lemon. The major auto repair problems probably won't show up until after that warranty has expired. Is this a good reason to purchase an extended warranty? Perhaps. Perhaps not. An extended warranty, if bought for a good price, can be a good idea under the best of circumstances. Some manufacturers make them part and parcel with the sale of their cars, and they can be an excellent way to get free auto repair. But if you have a true lemon, there are other things you can do.
Many states have "lemon laws" on the books to protect consumers from just such a situation. Check with your state's laws to see if you fall under the protection. The requirements are different for every state. Some have a minimum amount of service and auto repair that the car has to have needed before being considered a lemon. Others have a maximum time frame (which keeps people from determining that their 15 year old station wagon is suddenly a "lemon"). Check with the books and consult a lawyer if you want to move forward with a complaint.
Of course, the best method of protection is to avoid buying a lemon in the first place. When it comes to new cars, this is impossible. You may simply get unlucky. When it comes to used cars, however, you should be especially diligent when purchasing. Make sure you know the vehicle's history, including any records of auto repair. Know why the seller is getting rid of the vehicle. Research the brand and model and see if there are any common complaints. Doing this minimal amount of research beforehand can drastically reduce the chances of being stuck with a car you don't want.
