Lemon Law in North Dakota
In North Dakota, the average price of a used car has climbed to $37,773, ranking among the highest in the nation. New vehicles aren’t far behind, with national averages reaching $48,699 as of May 2025.
Given the high costs associated with vehicle ownership, it’s crucial to ensure that your investment is protected. If you find yourself repeatedly visiting the dealership for the same unresolved issue, it’s time to consider your rights under North Dakota’s Lemon Law. Understanding this law can save you from ongoing frustration and financial loss.
Don’t let a defective vehicle drain your resources. Consult with a North Dakota lemon law attorney to evaluate your situation.
What Is a Lemon Law?
Lemon laws in North Dakota offer critical protections for car buyers stuck with defective vehicles. To qualify under these laws, the issue must be a substantial defect that the manufacturer failed to fix after a reasonable number of attempts.
Importantly, the defect must not be caused by neglect, misuse, or any alterations made by the owner. Instead, it must stem from a manufacturer-related problem—something beyond your control. If repeated trips to the shop haven’t resolved the issue, you may have a valid lemon law claim in North Dakota.
When Does Lemon Law in North Dakota Apply?
North Dakota’s lemon law applies to new and demonstrator vehicles, and in some cases, to used cars that come with a manufacturer’s certified pre-owned warranty. While these protections are designed to give consumers a fair remedy, your claim must meet several specific requirements under federal guidelines before it qualifies.
To fall under lemon law protections in North Dakota, the following conditions generally apply:
- Multiple Repair Attempts – The manufacturer must have been given a reasonable number of chances to repair the issue.
- Within Two Years – The defect or issue must arise and be reported within two years of the original delivery date or before the warranty expires—whichever comes first.
- 30+ Days Out of Service – Your vehicle must be inoperable due to the defect for at least 30 cumulative days. These days don’t need to be consecutive.
How Do You Ensure the Application of Lemon Laws?
If you’re preparing to file a lemon law claim in North Dakota, the way you handle repairs and documentation can make or break your case. Following the right steps early on builds credibility and positions you to hold the manufacturer accountable.
Here are a few essential practices for North Dakota vehicle owners pursuing a lemon law claim:
- Use the Authorized Dealership – Always take your vehicle to the authorized dealership for repairs. This demonstrates that the manufacturer had a fair opportunity to fix the issue. If you go to an independent mechanic, the automaker may deny responsibility.
- Keep a Repair Log – Document every visit, work order, and detail about the vehicle’s performance. These records help prove that the defect persisted despite multiple repair attempts and establish how long the vehicle was out of service.
- Understand State-Specific Rules – North Dakota law is clear about the timing and scope of lemon claims. Make sure you’re following the requirements laid out in the state’s statutes so you don’t miss your chance to seek relief.
North Dakota’s lemon law statute (N.D. Cent. Code § 51-07-16) puts the burden on the manufacturer to make things right—if you’ve done your part by following proper procedures.
What Exactly Are Consumers Entitled To Under Lemon Laws?
If North Dakota’s lemon law applies to your vehicle, you may be entitled to a full refund or a replacement vehicle. The law ensures that consumers aren’t stuck with a defective car, truck, or SUV that can’t be fixed after multiple repair attempts. However, the manufacturer may deduct a “reasonable allowance” for your use of the vehicle before it becomes unusable.
Your compensation may include reimbursement for:
- Down payment – What you initially paid at the time of purchase.
- Registration fees – Any registration or title costs tied to the vehicle.
- Taxes – Including state and local sales taxes.
- Rental car costs – If you needed a rental while your vehicle was in the shop.
- Monthly payments – Lease or loan payments made before the vehicle was declared a lemon.
- Towing expenses – Reasonable towing fees related to the defect.
- Attorney fees – Legal fees are typically covered by the manufacturer if you win your case.
Do Lemon Laws Apply to Used Vehicles?
North Dakota’s lemon law only applies to new vehicles. That means used cars are not protected under the state statute—unless your purchase came with a written warranty. In that case, you may still have options under federal law or other consumer protection statutes. If you’re unsure, it’s worth speaking with a qualified attorney who can evaluate your specific circumstances.
When Should You Hire a Qualified North Dakota Lemon Law Attorney?
If your new vehicle has been in and out of the shop and the problem still isn’t fixed, it may be time to involve legal counsel. North Dakota’s lemon law allows you to act if the defect hasn’t been resolved after several repair attempts or if your car has been out of service for a total of 30 days.
How Does the Lemon Law Litigation Process Work?
When you bring in an experienced North Dakota lemon law attorney, you’re not just hiring someone to argue your case—you’re bringing in a professional who understands how to navigate the system from start to finish. Legal counsel can help ensure your rights are protected and give you a real shot at a favorable outcome.
Here’s what you can typically expect when working with a lemon law firm in North Dakota:
- Free Case Review – Most attorneys will start with a no-cost consultation to determine whether your situation qualifies under North Dakota’s lemon law.
- Filing the Claim – Your lawyer will handle all filings with the manufacturer and relevant state or federal bodies, so you don’t have to manage the red tape.
- Escalating the Dispute – If the manufacturer fails to cooperate, your attorney can escalate the matter through formal legal channels to pursue your claim.
- Settlement Negotiations – When a resolution is possible before trial, your lawyer can often recover all associated costs—this typically includes repair expenses and attorney fees.
- No Out-of-Pocket Fees – Most lemon law attorneys work on a contingency basis. If you lose your case, you shouldn’t owe any legal fees. If you win, the manufacturer typically pays your attorney’s costs.
In North Dakota, claims for $15,000 or less can be filed in small claims court, while higher-value cases go through the state’s district courts. Your attorney will advise you on which venue is appropriate based on your claim value and the nature of the dispute.
Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer In North Dakota
Need help fast? Our team can connect you with a seasoned North Dakota lemon law attorney who understands how to hold manufacturers accountable. We can even help you connect with an attorney across North Dakota state lines!
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
About the Author
Aaron is a professional legal writer with a B.S. in English Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He has written, published, and edited thousands of legal articles for RequestLegalHelp, which has connected over 5 million people to legal help in the United States.
With over five years of experience writing thousands of legal articles for law firms across the U.S. and Canada, Aaron specializes in covering federal, state, and city-level legal issues ranging from auto accidents to wrongful terminations.
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