Do You Have a Lemon? A Washington State Lemon Law Guide from a Seattle Attorney

Woman opening the hood of a defective car

What Is Lemon Law?

Lemon laws are consumer protection laws that hold vehicle manufacturers accountable when they sell defective cars. If you buy a new vehicle that has major issues that can’t be repaired, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement.

In short, if you end up with a car that spends more time in the shop than on the road, you shouldn't be stuck with it. Lemon laws vary by state, but Washington offers strong protections for buyers.

How to Know if Your Car Might Be a Lemon

Repeat issues

If your car has had the same problem repaired multiple times and it still isn’t fixed, it could qualify as a lemon. This is especially true if the issue affects safety, drivability, or value.

Must be less than 5 years old:

Lemon law protections usually apply to vehicles that are less than five years old from the date of manufacture. It’s possible for an older car to qualify, but it’s less likely.

Purchased new or with fewer than 24,000 miles

The Washington Lemon Law generally applies to new vehicles with fewer than 24,000 miles at the time of purchase. This ensures you're protected early in the vehicle’s life.

Under Warranty (optional)

You have a stronger WA lemon law case if your car is still under manufacturer's warranty. This obligates the manufacturer to fix any issues and ensure you get the vehicle you paid for.

Other Vehicles That Qualify Under Washington Lemon Law

Motorcycles
RVs
Used cars
Leased cars
Semi trucks
Boats
Customized vehicles

Common Vehicle Issues to Look Out For

Engine

Overheating regularly
Stalling unexpectedly
Unusual knocking or ticking noises
Excessive oil consumption

Brakes

Squealing or grinding noises
Car pulls to one side when braking
Soft or spongy brake pedal
Warning light stays on

Transmission

Hard or delayed shifting
Slipping gears
Transmission fluid leaks
Jerking or lurching while driving

Electrical

Dashboard lights flickering or staying on
Power windows or locks failing
Infotainment system not working
Battery constantly draining

What Should You Do If You Think Your Car Is a Lemon?

Keep paperwork for repair attempts

Every time you take your car in for a repair, get detailed invoices and service records. This creates a paper trail proving how many times you've tried to get the issue fixed.

Ensure you keep up with regular maintenance

Follow your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. If you don’t, the manufacturer might claim that the problem is your fault—not a defect.

Don’t tell the dealership you plan to sue

If you mention legal action too early, the dealership may stop cooperating or become defensive. It’s best to gather evidence and talk to a lawyer first.

They may not comply

Unfortunately, dealerships don’t always follow the law unless you push them. That’s why knowing your rights—and having legal backup—can make a big difference.

Only get your car fixed at the dealership

Repairs done at the dealership ensure they’re documented and done under warranty. Outside mechanics might not be recognized by the manufacturer in a lemon law claim.

Contact a lawyer for a consultation

An experienced lemon law attorney can help you understand if your case qualifies. They’ll guide you through documentation, negotiations, and legal action if necessary.

This form will connect you with an experienced Washington Lemon Law Attorney:

WA Lemon Law Attorney FAQs

Should I hire an attorney?

Yes. Hiring a lawyer can significantly improve your chances of winning a lemon law claim. It’s possible to carry out a claim yourself, but the process can be complicated, and manufacturers often fight back hard. A lawyer will make sure your documents are in order, communicate with the dealership or manufacturer on your behalf, and push for the best possible outcome. In most cases, the manufacturer pays your attorney’s fees, not you.

How much does it cost to file a lemon law claim?

In Washington, you don’t pay anything out of pocket. The manufacturer is often required by law to cover your legal fees. So, filing a claim typically costs you nothing upfront.

How much money will I get back?

If your case is successful, you could receive:

A full refund of the purchase price (minus a small usage fee)
A replacement vehicle
Reimbursement for repairs, towing, rental cars, and other related costs

The exact amount depends on the car’s price, how much you’ve driven it, and the severity of the issues.

How can I find the best lawyer?

The best way to find a lawyer is through FixMyLemon.com They will connect you with a top Washington Lemon Law Attorney who will handle your case. It takes only 30 seconds to connect with a lawyer.`

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