When shopping for a car, the last thing you want is to end up with is a lemon. A Lemon Law car is a vehicle plagued with defects that can lead to endless repairs, frustration, and unexpected expenses. Fortunately, there are several telltale signs that can help you avoid purchasing a lemon. Here’s how our CarEdge pros keep an eye out for lemon cars when shopping for our Concierge service. 

1. Check the Vehicle History Report

One of the first steps in evaluating a used car is to obtain a vehicle history report from a service like Carfax. Don’t accept a report from an issuer you’ve never heard of, or very little is known about. This report provides crucial details about the car’s past, including any reported accidents, title issues, service records, and whether it has been labeled a lemon by previous owners. A clean history report is a good sign, but be wary of any red flags such as frequent ownership changes or multiple repairs early in the car’s life.

2. Beware of “Too Good to Be True” Deals

If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Extremely low prices compared to similar models on the market could be a sign that the seller is trying to offload a lemon. Always research the fair market value of the car you’re interested in and be cautious if the price is significantly lower without a reasonable explanation. It can’t hurt to ask the salesperson why the car is offered at such a good price. CarEdge Insights is the perfect research tool for every car buyer, and includes detailed, local car price data.

3. Inspect the Exterior and Interior Thoroughly

A careful inspection of the car’s exterior and interior can reveal signs of previous damage or poor maintenance, in addition to a possible Lemon Law car. Look for uneven paint jobs, mismatched body panels, or rust, which could indicate previous accidents or improper repairs. Inside, check for wear and tear that doesn’t match the car’s age or mileage, such as overly worn seats, broken switches, or a musty smell, which could point to water damage.

Even if a car has been repaired, the quality of those repairs matters. Check for signs of shoddy workmanship, such as misaligned body panels, uneven gaps around doors or hoods, and poorly fitting trim pieces. 

4. Have a Trusted Mechanic Inspect the Car

Even if the car seems perfect on the surface, it’s wise to have a trusted mechanic conduct a pre-purchase inspection. A mechanic can check the car’s engine, transmission, suspension, and other critical components for issues that might not be obvious during a regular inspection or test drive. This professional evaluation can save you from unexpected repairs and costs down the road.

If the seller gives any pushback at all, this is a major red flag. It’s reasonable for them to ask questions considering that you’d be taking their car to a shop. Offer for them to come along to assuage any concerns. Regardless, our CarEdge experts don’t budge on this: no pre-purchase inspection on a used car? No deal.

👉 Check out our guide to pre-purchase inspections

5. Test Drive the Vehicle

A thorough test drive is crucial for uncovering hidden issues. Pay attention to how the car handles, brakes, and accelerates. Listen for any unusual noises, such as clunking, grinding, or whining, which could signal mechanical problems. Also, test all of the vehicle’s features, including the air conditioning, infotainment system, and lights, to ensure everything is in working order.

If you’re not too familiar with how a car should drive, invite someone who is along for the ride. This could be covered under the pre-purchase inspection we just covered above. 

6. Review Warranty and Lemon Law Protections

If you’re buying a used car, check if any of the manufacturer’s warranty is still in effect. This can offer some protection if you end up with a lemon. Additionally, familiarize yourself with your state’s lemon laws, which provide legal recourse if you purchase a defective vehicle. Knowing your rights can help you make a confident purchase and protect yourself if something goes wrong. Consider extended warranty coverage for peace of mind. Learn more about CarEdge’s extended warranty, the most transparent coverage on the market.

👉 The Center for Auto Safety’s guide to lemon laws by state

In Conclusion: Lemon Law Cars Drain the Bank

Spotting a lemon law car before you buy can save you from a world of hassle and expense. By following these critical steps, you can minimize the risk of ending up with a problematic and wallet-draining vehicle. Remember, it’s better to invest a little extra time in the buying process than to deal with the consequences of purchasing a lemon.