Experienced Lemon Law Attorneys in NJ

The New Jersey Lemon Law primarily covers new vehicles, but it may also apply to used vehicles in some cases. Here are the requirements:

• The vehicle must be a car, SUV, truck, passenger van, motorcycle, or motorhome.
• New vehicles must be purchased or leased from a licensed dealer in New Jersey.
• Used vehicles may qualify if they’re covered by a warranty and meet certain conditions.
• The vehicle cannot be registered in New Jersey as a commercial vehicle.
• The vehicle must be registered in New Jersey when the Lemon Law claim is made.

For new vehicles, the law typically applies within the first 24,000 miles or 24 months from the delivery date, whichever comes first.

Used vehicles may be covered under the New Jersey Used Car Lemon Law if they:

• Were purchased from a licensed New Jersey dealer
• Cost $3,000 or more
• Have less than 100,000 miles at the time of purchase
• Are no more than seven years old

At Timothy Abeel & Associates, we’re experienced in handling Lemon Law cases for both new and used vehicles. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

No, boats do not qualify under New Jersey’s Lemon Law, but there are other laws that can help boat owners if they buy or lease one that’s defective.

Not every vehicle defect or problem qualifies you for a Lemon Law claim, although other laws may provide avenues for compensation. To qualify under New Jersey’s Lemon Law, the following conditions must be met:

• The defect or problem must substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.
• For motorhomes, the issue cannot involve the living quarters.
• The car dealer must have had a reasonable opportunity to repair the defect. This typically means:

• At least three repair attempts for most defects.
• Only one repair attempt if the defect is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury.

• Alternatively, if the vehicle has been out of service due to any defect or malfunction for a cumulative total of 20 or more days (45 or more days for motorhomes), you can still file a Lemon Law claim even if the dealer hasn’t had three repair attempts. This provision ensures protection for consumers whose vehicles have been unusable for extended periods, regardless of the number of repair attempts.
• A dealer must provide you with a fully itemized statement after each repair attempt. This statement should include details about installed parts and labor performed.

We understand that navigating these requirements can be complex. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle’s issues qualify for a Lemon Law claim, we’re here to help. Our experienced team can assess your situation and guide you through the process, ensuring your rights as a consumer are protected.

New Jersey’s Lemon Law provides two primary remedies for consumers. You have the choice between:

• A refund of the purchase price: If the owner or lessee chooses to receive a refund, the manufacturer must reimburse:
  • The vehicle’s original purchase price (per the invoice or lease contract), including any credit you received for trading in your old vehicle.
  • The sales tax, license and registration fees, and finance charges you’ve paid.
  • The down payment and all loan or lease payments made.
  • The cost of manufacturer- or dealer-installed options within 30 days of delivery.
  • Rental car expenses incurred while your vehicle was being repaired.
  • Repair costs.
  • Legal fees, including attorney fees, expert fees, and court costs.

It’s important to note that the refund is based on the original purchase price, not the current market value or the vehicle’s present worth.

• A replacement vehicle: If you prefer a brand-new vehicle that operates correctly, you can opt for a replacement. Here’s what you need to know:
  • You’ll receive a comparable vehicle (same make, model, and trim level)
  • Your existing loan or lease continues:
    •  The unpaid balance remains the same.
    • The term is not extended.
  • Your prior payments are counted toward the loan or lease as if you still owned the defective vehicle.
  • The manufacturer also covers:
    • Rental car expenses.
    • Repair costs.
    • Legal fees, including attorney fees, expert fees, and court costs.

We understand that choosing between these options can be complex. Each situation is unique, and what’s best for you depends on various factors. Our experienced team at Timothy Abeel & Associates can help you understand your rights and determine which remedy might be most beneficial in your case.

Even if your new vehicle’s problems began after two years or 24,000 miles, you may still be protected under other consumer protection laws. For instance, if your vehicle is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, you might be eligible for a Breach of Warranty claim. Alternatively, if there’s evidence of misrepresentation, you could potentially pursue a Fraud Claim. These options can provide recourse even when your vehicle falls outside the standard Lemon Law timeframe.

New Jersey’s Lemon Law is structured to ensure that owners of defective vehicles don’t bear additional financial burdens. The law incorporates a fee-shifting provision, which mandates that the vehicle manufacturer cover all attorneys’ fees and legal costs if the consumer wins their case. 

This is in addition to reimbursing all repair and service visit expenses. Importantly, this coverage applies regardless of whether you opt for a refund or a replacement vehicle. The law aims to make you whole without incurring extra expenses in the process of seeking justice.

Our firm handles Lemon Law claims for vehicle owners across New Jersey, regardless of their location within the state. If your case requires an expert inspection and report, we’ll arrange for them to come to you. For those residing outside New Jersey seeking a Lemon Law lawyer in Pennsylvania or other states, we may still be able to offer our services. Our commitment to accessibility ensures that geographical distance doesn’t hinder your ability to seek justice under the Lemon Law.

At Timothy Abeel & Associates, we strive to resolve Lemon Law claims efficiently, aiming to settle most cases within 30 to 90 days. Our goal is to get you back on the road with fair compensation as swiftly as possible. However, we’re also prepared to litigate against manufacturers who refuse to provide our clients with their full legal entitlements. Our approach balances speed with a steadfast commitment to securing the best possible outcome for each client.

Even if your vehicle’s issues don’t align perfectly with Lemon Law criteria, you may still have recourse under other state or federal consumer protection laws. We encourage you to reach out to our team at Timothy Abeel & Associates to explore the potential for breach of warranty or loss in value claims.

Lemon Law cases may appear straightforward, but many consumers lose due to inadequate claim procedures. Manufacturers have a lot of experience fighting these claims and often rely on common arguments that Timothy Abeel & Associates can effectively counter. Manufacturers commonly employ specialist legal teams to minimize costs, highlighting the importance of hiring a reliable Lemon Law lawyer in NJ to improve your chances of success. 

A manufacturer’s New Jersey Lemon Law attorney will often:

• Argue the issue does not substantially impair the vehicle’s value, safety, or use.
• Claim the problems stem from neglect, abuse, or unauthorized alterations/modifications.
• Assert that the issue arose or wasn’t reported within the first two years or 24,000 miles.
• Claim that the manufacturer resolved the problem within a reasonable timeframe.

Lemon Law attorneys in NJ are well-versed in these tactics. By hiring a reputable law firm, you can effectively counter these arguments and secure the compensation you’re entitled to.

New Jersey’s Lemon Law stands out from other states as it doesn’t explicitly exclude commercial vehicles. This means your Lemon Law attorney in NJ can typically pursue a case for a vehicle purchased for commercial purposes, just as they would for a personal vehicle. This inclusive approach ensures that business owners and individuals alike can seek recourse if they are dealing with a defective vehicle, regardless of its intended use.

If you’re dealing with recurring issues despite multiple repair attempts, it’s time to consider legal assistance. At Timothy Abeel & Associates, P.C., we specialize in swiftly securing fair settlements for owners of defective or malfunctioning vehicles. 

To understand your rights as a consumer and explore your options, we invite you to call our firm at 888.611.5481 or contact us through our website. Our experienced team is ready to evaluate your case and guide you toward the most effective resolution.