New Jersey Lemon Law Summary
STANDARDS OF THE NEW JERSEY LEMON LAW
The following is a brief explanation of most relevant provisions of the New Jersey lemon
law. The complete text of the lemon law can be found at N.J. Stat. Ann. § 56:12-29 et
seq.
For more information about the lemon law, or to obtain a copy of “Consumer's Guide to
the New Jersey Lemon Law,” consumers may call the New Jersey Division of Consumer
Affairs, Lemon Law Unit at (973) 504-6226, or visit
http://www.njconsumeraffairs.com/ocp/lemguide.htm.
VEHICLES COVERED
The New Jersey lemon law covers a passenger automobile (any motor vehicle used and
designed for the transportation of passengers, other than an omnibus or school bus) and
motorcycle that is purchased, leased or registered in New Jersey. The lemon law covers
used vehicles, but does not cover the living facilities of motor homes.
The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office has indicated that the lemon law does not
cover vehicles with a commercial registration.
CONSUMERS COVERED
The lemon law covers the following “consumers”:
1. The buyer or lessee, other than for purposes of resale or sublease, of a motor vehicle;
2. Any person to whom a motor vehicle is transferred during the duration of a warranty
applicable to the motor vehicle; and
3. Any other person entitled by the terms of the warranty to enforce its obligations.
VEHICLE CONVERTERS
The lemon law applies to vehicle converters.
PROBLEMS COVERED
The lemon law covers any nonconformity, which it defines as a defect or condition that
substantially impairs the use, value or safety of a motor vehicle.
The lemon law provides an affirmative defense if the manufacturer can show that the
alleged nonconformity does not substantially impair the use, value, or safety of the new
motor vehicle, or the nonconformity is the result of abuse, neglect, or unauthorized
modifications or alterations of the motor vehicle by anyone other than the manufacturer
or its dealer.
More at: bbb.org/us/auto-line/state-lemon-laws/
