
Charleston Lemon Law protects South Carolina consumers from being stuck with unreliable or unsafe vehicles.
If your car has recurring issues that the dealer can’t fix after several attempts, the manufacturer may have to replace or repurchase it — usually at no cost to you. Understanding Charleston Lemon Law
The Charleston Lemon Law provides powerful legal protection for South Carolina vehicle owners and lessees. If your new or leased vehicle continues to have serious mechanical problems, you may qualify for:
- A comparable replacement vehicle
- A full refund, including taxes, registration, and title fees
- A cash settlement for inconvenience or diminished value
- Attorney’s fees paid by the manufacturer if your case succeeds
You pay nothing out of pocket — the manufacturer covers your legal fees when you win.
What Vehicles Are Covered?
Charleston Lemon Law applies to:
- New and leased vehicles purchased or registered in South Carolina
- Cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs primarily for personal or family use
- Claims made within 1 year of delivery or within the manufacturer’s warranty period, whichever is longer
- Vehicles with 3+ failed repair attempts or 30+ cumulative days out of service for the same problem
- Some small business vehicles that meet South Carolina Lemon Law standards
Not Covered: Used “as-is” vehicles, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, or those heavily modified after purchase.
Do I Qualify for a Charleston Lemon Law Claim?
You may qualify if:
- The defect affects your vehicle’s use, safety, or resale value
- The issue continues after 3 or more repair attempts for the same problem
- The vehicle has been in the shop 30+ cumulative days
- The issue appeared within the warranty period or first 12 months after delivery
Our Charleston Lemon Law attorneys will review your repair history and confirm your eligibility — for free.
Common Defects Under Charleston Lemon Law
Common issues that may qualify include:
- Engine stalling, overheating, or failure to start
- Transmission slipping, jerking, or hard shifting
- Steering or braking issues
- Electrical or dashboard system malfunctions
- Heating or air conditioning defects
- Persistent leaks, rattling, or vibration problems
If these issues persist after multiple repairs, your car may qualify as a lemon under South Carolina law.
Charleston Lemon Law and Used Cars
While South Carolina’s Lemon Law focuses on new vehicles, used car owners may be protected under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or a dealer warranty if:
- The used vehicle was sold with a written warranty or service contract
- The defect occurred within that warranty coverage
- The dealer or manufacturer failed to fix the issue after reasonable repair attempts
Find out if your used car qualifies — your case review is completely free and confidential.
No Upfront Fees. Our Attorneys
Are Paid by the Manufacturer — Not You. Your agreement explains any costs.