When Is a Car a Lemon in Washington?

A vehicle qualifies as a “lemon” under Washington’s RCW 19.118.041 when:

The thresholds

Test	Threshold
Same nonconformity, repair attempts	4 or more
Serious safety defect, repair attempts	2 or more
Cumulative calendar days out of service	30 or more (≥15 within the warranty period)

PLUS:

• Defect substantially impairs use, value, or safety.
• Within the 24-month / 24,000-mile Rights Period from delivery.
• Within the 30-month Request for Arbitration filing window.
• Written notice sent to manufacturer with final repair opportunity.

What counts as a “repair attempt”

• Vehicle was at an authorized service facility.
• Consumer reported the defect.
• Repair order documents the visit.
• “No problem found” visits count.
• Different symptoms in the same visit can count separately.
• Independent-mechanic visits don’t count.
• Routine maintenance doesn’t count.

What “substantially impairs” means

Three-prong test (use OR value OR safety) — typical examples that qualify:

• Stalling.
• Brake failure.
• Steering failure.
• Transmission slipping.
• Engine fires.
• Phantom braking.
• Loss of HVAC defroster.

What “serious safety defect” means

A defect that is life-threatening or impedes the consumer’s ability to control or operate the vehicle. The two-attempt threshold applies.

Bottom line

If you’ve had three or four repair attempts on the same defect, or two attempts on a safety issue, or the vehicle has been out of service for 30+ days (with at least 15 of them within the warranty period) — and you’re within the 24-month / 24,000-mile window — you likely qualify. Get a free case review to confirm.

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How Long Do I Have to File a Washington Lemon Law Claim?

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How Much Does a Washington Lemon Law Case Cost?

Free AG arbitration, contingency representation for court action — Washington consumers typically pay nothing out of pocket.

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Are Used Vehicles Covered by Washington Lemon Law?

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Does It Matter Which Repair Shop I Use in Washington?

Yes — Washington Lemon Law requires repairs at an authorized service facility. Independent-mechanic visits don't count toward the repair-attempt threshold.

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