Failed Inspection or Lemon Aid Law

The new year is here and that may mean new vehicle purchases. While many of these will occur without issues, some may find their vehicles have defects. In Massachusetts, the “Failed Inspection Lemon Law” may be step in. If the vehicle fails a state inspection within seven days of receiving it and the cost to repair is at least 10% of the purchase price, you are entitled to a refund.

The vehicle must be inspected within seven days of receipt at an authorized inspection station. If you fail the inspection, it should come with a written statement describing the failure. The same inspection station could give you a written estimate of the repair costs. You can also get a written estimate for repairs at any other legitimate repair shop. With the inspection failure and repair estimate documents, let the seller know you want a refund. You have 14 days from receipt of the vehicle to make this request. After making the request, bring the vehicle back to the dealership. If they refuse to refund, bring a witness and a notarized document signed by both you and your witness. At this point, you will need to go to mediation or court for financial restitution.