Does my as-is used car purchase qualify for lemon law due to recurring issues?

Question

I recently purchased a used car as-is. Less than two hours after driving off the lot, the dashboard lit up with a check engine light and tire sensor faults. By the time I informed the dealer, the dealership was closed for the weekend. Over the past three weeks, I've returned the car to their service center four times for the same issues, with the dealership claiming each time that it is fixed. I had a certified mechanic check the car and found codes related to the O2 sensor and tire sensor faults, which he believes were cleared before the purchase. The dealership has not provided any paperwork for the repairs, just verbal assurances. Does this situation qualify for the lemon law in my state?

Carla Grebert · Answer

The Lemon Law only protects you when you purchase a new car.  It does not apply to used vehicles.

Robert Ammons · Answer

Lemon laws typically apply to new vehicles, not used cars sold "as-is." However, you may still have legal options depending on your state’s consumer protection laws, fraud statutes, or warranty protections. Since you experienced recurring issues almost immediately after purchase and the dealership may have knowingly cleared error codes to hide defects, you could have a case for misrepresentation, breach of contract, or fraudulent concealment. 
 
Even when a car is sold "as-is," dealerships cannot engage in deceptive sales practices. If they knew about the defects and failed to disclose them, you may have grounds for legal action. Some states also have implied warranties that protect buyers when a car is unfit for ordinary use, especially if the dealership provided verbal assurances that the vehicle was repaired but failed to provide written documentation. Since they have not given you paperwork for the supposed repairs, this raises concerns about whether they are truly addressing the issues. 
 
Additionally, tire defects and sensor failures can pose serious safety risks. If your vehicle has faulty tire sensors, defective tires, or hidden mechanical defects, you may have a product liability claim if the issue leads to an accident. Tire failures, including tread separation or pressure sensor malfunctions, can contribute to dangerous blowouts or loss of vehicle control. If you suspect a tire defect, it’s essential to document the issue, take photos, and consult with an attorney who handles tire defect cases. More information can be found here: https://www.ammonslaw.com/tire-defects/. 
 
To protect yourself, consider taking the following steps: 
 
Request all repair records in writing – The dealership is required to provide documentation of repairs performed. 
Consult a consumer protection attorney – Many states have used car fraud laws that may provide you with a legal remedy. 
Check your state’s used car warranty laws – Some states require dealerships to offer limited warranties on used vehicles, even if sold "as-is." 
File a complaint – If the dealership refuses to cooperate, you may file a complaint with the state attorney general’s office, consumer protection agency, or Better Business Bureau. 
While traditional lemon laws may not apply, your situation could still warrant legal action under consumer protection or fraud laws. Given the safety concerns related to tire defects and hidden mechanical issues, consulting a lawyer to explore your options is highly recommended.

Q: Does my as-is used car purchase qualify for lemon law due to recurring issues?