What Can I Do If My New Car Has Serious Repair Problems?

If you have purchased a new car that is having constant, serious repair problems, Nebraska has a "lemon law" (Nebraska Revised Statute §60–2703) that might help you. Make an appointment with a lawyer to see if your situation fits the criteria and what steps you need to take. The law allows the buyer of a new car to get a refund on the purchase price or a new replacement car under the following conditions:

  1. The car does not conform to express warranties and the problem substantially impairs the car´s use and market value.

  2. The consumer reports the problem to the manufacturer or authorized dealer during the term of the express warranties or within one year from the delivery of the car to the consumer, whichever is earlier.

  3. The manufacturer or dealer is unable to repair the car or correct the defect after a reasonable number of attempts. (Reasonable number is four or more attempts to fix the same problem or the car is out of service by reason of repair for a total of more than 40 days.)

  4. The problem must not be the result of abuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications of the car by the consumer.

  5. If the manufacturer has established or participates in a dispute settlement procedure certified by the Department of Motor Vehicles, the consumer must participate in that procedure before becoming entitled under the lemon law to a refund or replacement car.