Proof wins lemon law cases. Clear records show the problem, the pattern, and the failure to fix it. If your paperwork is weak, manufacturers push back.
This list shows the exact evidence you need and why each item matters.
Use this as a checklist. If you are missing items, start now.
1. Repair Orders From Every Dealer Visit
Repair orders are the backbone of a lemon law case. Every time you bring your car in, you should get one.
Each repair order should include:
- The problem you reported
- The date you dropped off the car
- The date you picked it up
- What the dealer tried to fix
Make sure the problem description is clear. “Car stalls while driving” is strong. “Check engine light” is weak. If the wording is vague, ask them to fix it before you leave.
Clear repair orders show repeated failure.
2. Complete Service History in Date Order
One repair means little. A pattern means everything.
Your service history should show:
- Repeat visits for the same issue
- Short time between repairs
- No permanent fix
Keep all service invoices and printouts. Put them in date order. This makes the problem easy to understand at a glance.
A clean timeline tells the story without extra explanation.
3. Written Complaints to the Dealer
Verbal complaints disappear. Written ones stay.
Email the service manager when problems continue. Describe the issue in plain words. Ask for repair or resolution.
Save all replies. Include names and dates. These messages prove the dealer knew about the defect and had chances to fix it.
Written notice matters more than people realize.
4. Written Complaints to the Manufacturer
You should also contact the manufacturer directly.
Save:
- Emails
- Letters
- Online case confirmations
These records show the manufacturer was informed and failed to act. They also show delays, denials, or weak responses.
This proof helps later if the dispute escalates.
5. Photos of Warning Lights and Dash Errors
Some problems come and go. Photos lock them in.
Take clear photos of:
- Warning lights
- Error messages
- Dash alerts
Label each photo with the date. Keep them backed up. Even one photo can confirm what repair orders describe.
Visual proof supports written records.
6. Videos of the Defect Happening
Videos are powerful when issues are hard to repeat at the dealer.
Record:
- Stalling
- Failure to start
- Loud knocking or grinding
- Loss of power
Keep videos short and clear. Do not narrate emotions. Stick to what is happening.
These clips show that the defect is real and ongoing.
7. Mileage Records at Each Repair Visit
Mileage helps show frequency and severity.
Track:
- Mileage at drop-off
- Mileage at pick-up
- Mileage between visits
Short gaps between repairs support a lemon law claim. High mileage loss due to downtime also matters.
A simple notebook or phone note works fine.
8. Days the Car Was Out of Service
Time without your car counts.
Write down:
- Each day, the car stayed at the dealer
- Delays waiting for parts
- Repeated long repair visits
Total days out of service often trigger lemon law protection. Missing this data can weaken your case.
Time records show loss of use.
9. Dealer Technician Notes and Diagnostics
Ask for full service records, not summaries.
Technician notes may include:
- Failed test drives
- Repeated diagnostics
- Statements like “issue still present”
These internal notes often confirm ongoing defects. They can be more honest than front-page invoices.
Always ask for the full file.
10. Your Personal Defect Log
A personal log fills the gaps between repairs.
Write down:
- When the problem happens
- How often it occurs
- How it affects driving or safety
Use short entries. Stick to facts. Dates matter more than opinions.
This log connects all other evidence into one clear story.
Bonus: What Evidence Hurts a Lemon Law Case
Some mistakes weaken even strong claims.
Avoid:
- Waiting months to document
- Accepting vague repair wording
- Losing original paperwork
- Relying on memory alone
- Stopping records after the first denial
Consistency matters. Keep documenting until the issue is resolved.
Organize Your Evidence Fast
Simple organization works best.
Use this setup:
- Folder for repair orders
- Folder for emails and letters
- Folder for photos and videos
- One-page timeline summary
Label files clearly. Back them up digitally. This saves time and stress later.
The Evidence Checklist That Protects Your Claim
Lemon law cases depend on proof, not frustration. Repair orders, written complaints, photos, and logs work together to show a clear pattern.
When evidence is complete and organized, manufacturers lose room to argue. Start early, stay consistent, and use this checklist to protect your case from day one.