What are Utah’s lemon laws?

Nothing sours a good deal on a vehicle purchase more than finding out you got a lemon. Is there a way to make lemonade? KSL answers your questions about Utah lemon laws. 

1. What is the lemon law in Utah?

According to Utah’s New Motor Vehicles Warranties Act, a vehicle is considered a lemon if it is a “manufacturer buyback nonconforming vehicle.” In other words, if the vehicle doesn’t run properly or isn’t safe due to manufacturer error — and it cannot be repaired — it can be called a lemon. 

As a result, you may be eligible for a replacement vehicle or a refund of your purchase price (less an allowance for mileage you put on the vehicle). The vehicle must be purchased in Utah for the state lemon law to apply.

When life gives you a lemon car, Utah law protects you.

2. What happens if the vehicle is a lemon?

Under the car’s warranty, it may be sent back to the manufacturer for repairs or replacement. However, if you customized your Charger, or supercharged your Subaru, you’re on your own. Neither the manufacturer nor the seller is responsible for problems that arise due to modifications, alterations or an accident.

3. How does the Utah lemon law work?

Once a vehicle has been declared a lemon, the car title type is changed from “clean” to “branded.” Anyone leasing or selling the vehicle, whether a dealership or a private party, must notify potential buyers — in writing — that it was returned to the manufacturer. And no tiny print; there must be an easily readable disclosure statement placed in a conspicuous place.

4. Is there a time limit on Utah’s lemon law?

A vehicle is considered a lemon if the manufacturer (or an authorized dealer) hasn’t repaired the problem after four attempts; or, your vehicle was in the shop for a total of 30 days (or more) within one year or throughout the warranty period, whichever is shorter.

Utah's lemon law only applies to new vehicles still under manufacturer warranty.

5. Does the lemon law apply to used cars?

There is no Utah lemon law for used cars; it applies only to new vehicles that are covered by the original manufacturer’s warranty. Used cars, whether sold by a dealer or a private party, are considered “as-is.” A dealership may offer its own warranty for some vehicle sales, but the law would not apply.

6. What if the seller misrepresented the car?

If you feel you were defrauded — a false odometer report, stolen vehicle, etc. — you may file a complaint with the Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division. Save yourself from surprises by ordering a car history report such as Carfax, available on KSL Cars listings. It will give documented information such as title type, last odometer reading and accident history.

7. How do I avoid buying a bad car?

A report may not give you the full picture, though. Because a used car is not covered by the Utah lemon law, it’s also important to thoroughly inspect it, both inside and out. Consider taking it to a licensed mechanic; they’ll take a closer look under the hood, check filters and fittings and warn you about potential problems. Buying a previously owned vehicle can save you thousands of dollars, providing there aren’t any serious repairs in the near future.

If the same problem occurs four times in a year, you could have a lemon.

8. What is the Idaho lemon law?

Similar to other states, including Utah, Nevada and California lemon laws, Idaho’s Motor Vehicle Warranty law requires the manufacturer to replace or refund a car labeled a lemon. In Idaho, that only applies if the vehicle is less than two years old, has less than 24,000 miles, and the written warranty is still valid. If you’re experiencing an issue, notify the manufacturer and car dealer as soon as possible.

9. Can I return a vehicle?

Once you sign on the dotted line, you are financially responsible for any vehicle purchase, new or used, and you cannot return it. Some dealers may offer a money-back guarantee, giving you a limited window to return a car if you’ve changed your mind. Keep in mind, it’s likely you’d only receive credit toward a different vehicle purchase. Because Utah law does not require a return policy, any such offers would be at the discretion of the seller. 

Find more buying tips and car reviews on the KSL Cars Resource page. Then, search for your best deal from the thousands of new and previously owned listings on KSL Cars.