Illinois’ auto lemon law covers a variety of vehicles, provided that they are sold for consumer use. The law covers the vehicle from defects for a period of twelve months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. In order to qualify as a lemon under Illinois law, the vehicle in question must meet the following requirements:

It must be a passenger vehicle, recreational vehicle or light truck of under 8000 pounds gross weight. Trailers are not covered under the law. Nor are motorcycles or used cars.

• Must have been purchased in the state of Illinois.
• Must have a “nonconformity” that substantially impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle. This nonconformity must not be the result of abuse, neglect, or unauthorized modification of the vehicle.
• This nonconformity must still exist after the dealer or manufacturer has had four our more attempts to repair the defect.
• Alternatively, the vehicle will qualify if it has been out of service for a total of 30 or more days due to unsuccessful attempts by the dealer to repair the nonconformity.

In Illinois, your owners manual should provide details regarding the Third Party Dispute Resolution Program, including the name and contact information for the designated manufacturer’s representative. Claims under the Lemon Law must be conducted through the manufacturer, and not through the dealer, and must be initiated within 12 months of the purchase date. It is generally advisable that such contact be made by Certified Mail with a return receipt requested. That way, the consumer can prove that such contact was made. Be aware that it is essential that you contact the manufacturer with this claim, and not the dealer.

The Dispute Board is an arbitration panel established by the manufacturer to handle consumer complaints within the state. The Board will listen to both sides of the issue and will issue a ruling that will be binding upon on the manufacturer. The owner is not bound by the decision and may seek recourse through the court system. Should you find yourself in this situation, the State of Illinois suggests that you hire a competent lemon law attorney.

Should you win your case, either in arbitration or in court, you will be awarded either a comparable replacement vehicle of like or similar value, or a refund of the original purchase price. A deduction will be made from the refund to adjust for prior use of the vehicle, based upon miles driven.

The state recommends that anyone pursuing a claim keep accurate records of all transactions involved. This includes repair receipts, noted with the amount of time the vehicle was out of service, and records of all communication, either written or verbal, with either the dealer or the manufacturer. This information will be useful during either a court proceeding or an arbitration hearing.

If you are going through problems with your car, pickup truck or van, you may discover that you need the aid of a competent lawyer. LegalMatch can help find an experienced attorney local to you. Confidentiality is assured, all legal representatives are licensed, and there is no charge to inquire.

Further information on the Illinois lemon law is available from the Website of the Illinois Attorney General.