Used Vehicles Under Michigan Lemon Law

Michigan’s Lemon Law covers used vehicles in narrow circumstances — within original manufacturer warranty AND the 1-year reporting window.

When used vehicles are covered

Original manufacturer’s warranty AND within 1-year reporting window

Full Michigan Lemon Law remedies apply, including BBB Auto Line (if mandatory) and court action with parallel Magnuson-Moss.

The reporting window runs from the original delivery date — not from when the used buyer took ownership. A subsequent purchaser who bought at month 10 has only 2 months of reporting window remaining.

CPO vehicles

No CPO-specific statute in Michigan. CPO vehicles get protection through:

• Manufacturer’s CPO warranty under Magnuson-Moss.
• Dealer’s representations that may support MCPA misrepresentation claims where outside the Smith v. Globe Life exemption.
• Original manufacturer warranty (if active and within reporting window).

Dealer-issued warranties

Governed by Magnuson-Moss, Michigan UCC, and (with the narrowing caveat) MCPA.

”As-is” sales and the Magnuson-Moss backstop

Michigan UCC allows disclaimers, but Magnuson-Moss § 2308 blocks disclaimer while a written warranty is in force. This is particularly important in Michigan given MCPA’s narrowed reach.

What if you’re past the 1-year reporting window?

• Magnuson-Moss — 4 years from delivery, with mandatory federal attorney fees.
• MCPA — 6 years from accrual (where MCPA applies, with the Smith v. Globe Life narrowing caveat).

What you should do

1. Confirm warranty status at purchase.
2. Confirm within 1-year reporting window (from original delivery date).
3. Pull all repair orders.
4. Send certified-mail notice if within reporting window.
5. Get a free case review.

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