The lemon law in Illinois requires that the defect (called a "nonconformity") substantially impairs your use or the safety of your lemon, or substantially reduces its market value.
The defect also must have been repaired after at least four repair attempts by the manufacturer/dealer or your lemon must has been out of service (not available for your use) for at least 30 business days.
The law covers cars, vans and trucks under 8,000 pounds, and recreational vehicles (RVs), if they are purchased in Illinois. These lemons are just covered for the first twelve months or 12,000 miles of driving, whichever occurs first.
Motorcycles, boats, modified or altered vehicles, and used cars and trucks are not covered. However, they may be covered by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
Ensure that you have the work invoices for the four repair attempts performed by the dealer. Each should say what the problem was, and what was done to repair it. Keep track of the number of days you were without the vehicle, since a total of 30 business days qualifies you for compensation.
The Illinois lemon law requires that you initiate your claim through the manufacturer's representative whose region includes Illinois. Your dealer can provide that information if you don't find it in your owner's manual. You can't initiate the claim through your dealer. Your complaint should also be filed within 18 months of the original delivery date, but don't wait that long. The representative will send you the forms you need.
With your letter and forms, send photocopies of all your work invoices and any notes you took about the defect. Remember to photocopy your letter and all forms, and keep a copy of them for your records. Send the letter by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. This is your proof that you filed your claim on time.
Your compensation is either a refund of the purchase cost of the vehicle, less a deduction for the miles you put on the car, or perhaps a replacement with a vehicle of comparable or like value.
If you decide on a refund, you will be paid the balance after any lien holders are paid the amounts you owe them.
Based on the Illinois lemon law, you cannot get compensation if you do not first go through the manufacturer's dispute resolution process, if there is one.
If you own a lemon car, truck, van or recreational vehicle, you could be eligible for compensation from the manufacturer. As long as you have had four repair attempts, or the vehicle was out of service for a minimum of 30 business days, in the first 12 months or 12,000 miles, you should receive replacement vehicle or refund.
Keep all of your notes, work invoices and other documentation. And be sure to initiate the procedure with the manufacturer's representative.
