Yes, the NYC lemon law covers electric vehicles, and the reason is simple: the law protects any new car with a warranty, no matter if it runs on gas or electricity. When an EV has the same problem again and again, and the dealer cannot repair it, you may have a lemon.
I will break down your rights in plain English and explain what to do if your EV keeps showing battery issues, charging errors, or sudden power drops.
Why the NYC Lemon Law Applies to Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles still count as “motor vehicles” under New York law. The lemon law does not care if the engine is gas, hybrid, or fully electric. What matters is this:
- Your vehicle is new or recently purchased
- It is covered by a warranty
- It has a serious defect
- The dealer cannot repair it after several tries
- The defect impacts safety, use, or value
This means EV owners have the same protections as gas car owners. The law covers the entire vehicle, including components unique to electric vehicles, such as high-voltage batteries and charging systems.
Common EV Problems That May Qualify Under the Lemon Law
Here are common Electric Vehicle problems that may count as “substantial defects”:
Battery Problems
- Sudden loss of power
- Battery overheating
- Charging that takes too long
- Battery not charging at all
- Large drop in driving range
Motor or Power System Issues
- Car will not start
- Car shuts off while driving
- Loss of acceleration
- Error codes that keep coming back
Charging Port or Cable Issues
- Charging port failures
- Loose charging connection
- Charging errors after software updates
Software and Screen Problems
- Glitches on the main screen
- Frozen screens
- Navigation failures
- Cameras or sensors not working
Safety System Failures
- Faulty brakes
- Lane assist failure
- Blind-spot warning issues
- Autopilot or driver-assist malfunctions
If these problems repeat and the dealership cannot fix them, your EV may qualify as a lemon.
How Many Repairs Are Needed for an EV to Be a Lemon?
Your EV may qualify if:
- The dealer tried four or more times to fix the same issue
- OR the vehicle was in the shop for 30 or more days for repairs
- OR the defect is dangerous and still not repaired after a reasonable effort
EV problems often require specialized tools, so repairs sometimes take longer. This makes the 30-day rule important for electric vehicle owners.
Next Steps When Your Electric Vehicle Is a Lemon
If your EV is legally a lemon, you may receive one of the following:
1. A Replacement Vehicle
The manufacturer may offer the same model or a similar model of equal value.
2. A Full Refund
This refund may include:
- Down payment
- Monthly payments
- Taxes
- Registration fees
Mileage deductions may apply, but are usually small.
3. A Cash Settlement
You may keep the car and receive money for the problems you faced.
Your lawyer will explain which option fits your case best.
How EV Warranties Affect Your Lemon Law Claim
Electric vehicles often come with two types of warranties:
1. Basic Warranty
Covers the main parts of the vehicle.
2. Battery Warranty
Covers the high-voltage battery for many years. Some brands offer:
- 8-year warranties
- 10-year warranties
- 100,000-mile warranties
If your EV’s battery fails early or drops in performance beyond the warranty period, it strengthens your lemon law claim.
EV Lemon Law Cases Move Faster
Dealers know EV repairs are expensive. Battery packs and power systems can cost thousands of dollars. Manufacturers often want to resolve issues fast to avoid lengthy maintenance and high costs. This can work in your favor.
Even so, you must still:
- Keep every record
- Report issues fast
- Follow the repair steps
- Avoid skipping service visits
Small mistakes can slow your case down. Simple documentation helps avoid delays.
The NYC Lemon Law protects Your Electric Car
More people in New York City are buying electric cars (EVs). Sometimes, these new cars have problems that keep happening. The good news is that the NYC Lemon Law protects your EV. You have the same rights as people who own gas cars. If your EV keeps breaking, loses power, or won’t charge, the law is ready to help you.
You don’t have to fight the car dealer by yourself. With the right lawyer, you might be able to get your money back, get a new car, or get a fair cash payment. If you are not sure what to do, you can talk to a New York Lemon Law lawyer who helps EV owners every day.
Your EV should make life simple, not hard. If it keeps giving you trouble, use your rights and get the help you need.