Lemon Law Arbitration

There are several types of lemon law arbitration programs.  They include  auto manufacturers’  in-house programs,  American Automobile Association (AAA) or National Automobile Dealer’s Association (NADA) programs, state-sponsored consumer services programs, or Better Business Bureau (BBB) programs.  Guess which one usually works out in favor of the consumer?  Not surprisingly, it’s not the one funded and ran by the manufacturer itself.  It seems kinda unfair that they would be able to offer their own program.  The state-sponsored consumer services programs are usually the best for the consumer.  Unfortunately, you usually don’t get to pick which program you’ll be using.

During the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator will essentially act as a judge; just like Judge Judy on tv.  Again, it’s best to come prepared.  All your evidence/documentation regarding the repairs will be crucial to proving your case to the arbitrator.   This is your one chance to prove to a (supposedly) independent 3rd party that your claims are valid.

The arbitration process is very lengthy.  State laws says that the arbitrator has 40-60 days (depending on the state) to come to a decision.  It may also take a while for actually get a hearing.  While most states allow you to keep using the car (you do need to get to work after all), it may not look so great if you continue to drive the car during the process, particularly if the claim has to do with a safety issue.