Replacement Vehicle Under the Idaho Lemon Law

An Idaho claim can resolve with a comparable replacement vehicle instead of a refund. Under Idaho Code § 48-903, the manufacturer initially elects between replacement and refund — but the consumer can reject a replacement and require a refund.

What “comparable” means

A replacement vehicle should be:

• The same make and model (or substantially similar).
• Comparably equipped — trim, options, features.
• New and equivalent in value.

The election and the consumer veto

This is Idaho’s key remedy nuance: the manufacturer picks first, but the consumer holds a veto. If the manufacturer offers a replacement you don’t want, you can insist on the refund (capped at 105% of MSRP, less the ÷120,000 use offset). This makes the remedy effectively consumer-controlled — more favorable than pure manufacturer-option states like New Mexico.

When replacement makes sense

• You like the model and want a non-defective one.
• A replacement avoids re-shopping and re-financing.
• The defect is a one-off build issue.

When to veto and take the refund

• You’ve lost confidence in the model line.
• You want to exit the brand.
• The replacement offered isn’t truly comparable.
• The refund (105% cap, less offset) is worth more to you.

Leased vehicles — refund only

For leased vehicles, § 48-904 provides a refund-only remedy — there is no replacement option for leases.

Tax and registration

A proper replacement should not cost you a second round of sales tax, title, or registration — these are part of what the statute makes the manufacturer cover.

Bottom line

Replacement is one of the two statutory outcomes under § 48-903, with the manufacturer electing first — but Idaho gives the consumer a veto to force a refund instead. Leases are refund-only. Get a free case review to weigh the options.

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