When you buy a car, you expect it to work fine. When it has one or more defects that decrease its value or operation, that's called a Lemon car.

(Pucker-up butter cup- because this ain’t no lemon drop martini. We’re talkin’ a dud or junk vehicle).

Specific state laws exist to protect consumers from unwanted issues related to a damaged vehicle.

The Idaho Lemon Law states that the defects must be fixed by the dealer or the manufacturer within a specific time. But, cars must satisfy some conditions. Wait, what conditions? Let’s dive into that.

What Is the Idaho Lemon Law?

All new vehicles come with a warranty. This warranty is proof the dealer has agreed to repair the non-conformities before the warranty expiration date.

Non-conformities is a legal term for 'defects'. When the dealer fails or refuses to fix the flaws, this state law helps the buyers.

Idaho Lemon Law was created to shield automobile owners from struggles related to the poor performance of their cars, motorcycles, pickup trucks, or recreational vehicles. It applies to cars that are subject to the manufacturer's warranty.

This law covers the car’s defects that are not caused by abuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications. (Yeah, be careful, this gets lots of folks in trouble)

It covers the automobiles for the first two years after the delivery or 24000 miles, whichever comes first. The following are the other conditions that cars must satisfy to qualify for the Idaho Lemon Law:

• Must be licensed or bought in Idaho
• Must be purchased and used for personal purposes
• Must not exceed 12000lbs

• Nature of the problem
• Number of days unavailable (for same issue)
• Number of repair attempts made

When such products or cars are not fully repaired (depending), the buyer must get a refund or replacement.

This law is enacted by every US state and the federal government to save consumers from defective goods. It usually refers to some type of motor vehicle. Consumer rights vary by state.

In Idaho, HOWEVER, lemon law only applies to the sale and purchase of New Vehicles. UNLESS the motor vehicle is still under warranty.

Buyer Beware In Latin

In simple terms, "buyer beware" is similar to "sold as is." Buyer beware in latin is Caveat emptor. It means the consumer assumes the consequences of buying the goods.

The Caveat emptor principle warns that the seller has no responsibility if a product turns out to be faulty after the purchase.

Basically, the buyer is responsible for doing the necessary checks before the purchase. When the buyer fails to do so, he/she is not entitled to any actions for defects. Such situations usually occur due to misinformation.

Usually, the seller has more product info than the buyer. Thus, the buyer assumes the risks of possible defects in the bought goods.

When the product lacks the warranty, it's the buyer’s job to check everything. But, it doesn't allow the seller to provide false info about the product.

Does Lemon Law Apply To Used Cars Or RV's?

Idaho Lemon Law doesn’t apply to used cars or used RV’s. It applies to NEW vehicles. But, if the used vehicle is bought within the two years or 24,000 miles from the start of warranty, used car Lemon Law applies.

For motorhomes or RVs, state and federal acts can provide a remedy that keeps you from losing your investment. But, again, state codes vary. There are no standard requirements on the state level.

Most local governments require up to 3 failed attempts to fix the car defects. But, the time frame varies.

Laws On Buying A Used Vehicle From Private Seller

No one wants to buy a defective car. When we buy from a car lot, like Boise used cars, it’s good condition is assured by the dealer. We hope it’s worth the money. But, what if your used automobile broke down after a few days of purchase!!?

Let’s check what can be done in this case.

Dealers in Idaho can sell the used auto “as is.” So, when your vehicle fails to perform as promised, the dealer is not responsible. Because there is no warranty.

Many dealers use the “as-is” laws to protect themselves. But, to counter this, lawmakers have come up with rules to protect you, the used auto consumer rights.

Although Idaho dealers are allowed to sell the motor as is, they must comply with the used car disclosure laws. These laws govern the following:

No dealer wants to admit that they sold a bad car. If your retailer is difficult to deal with, or refuses to decide that a defective vehicle is a lemon, an experienced lemon law attorney is needed to ensure that your rights are protected.

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Legal Terms

probable cause-

Reasonable ground for suspicion, supported by circumstances strong enough to warrant a cautious man's belief that the law has been, or is being violated. A police officer must have probable cause to make an arrest or search.