LANSING - Attorney General Mike Cox today reminded consumers that Michigan's "Lemon Law" is designed to protect them should they purchase or lease a defective automobile. Cox's announcement was in response to a spike in complaints received by the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division from dissatisfied car purchasers.

            "The Lemon Law is in place to protect consumers during and after the purchase of an automobile," said Cox. "People should be able to depend on their new vehicle; and if they cannot depend on their car, they can depend on the law to protect them."

            Cox's office released a "Consumer Alert" today reminding citizens of their rights under Michigan's Lemon Law. The Lemon Law:

• Allows a car purchaser to bring a claim against an automobile dealer if problems with the vehicle occur within one-year of purchase or during the time the vehicle is covered under the manufacturer's warranty, whichever comes first.
• A car purchaser also may have a valid claim if a vehicle requires service after a reasonable number of repair attempts, even after expiration of warranty. 

            Cox encouraged questions or complaints regarding defective automobiles or other potential productsliability issues be directed to the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. The direct, toll-free line to the Consumer Protection office is 1 (877) 765-8388.

            Cox concluded, "Most of us have heard the saying: 'when life hands you a lemon, make lemonade.' When it comes to buying a car in the State of Michigan, however, if a consumer is handed a lemon, the law ensures that they can hand it back, or be reimbursed."

            This and other consumer alerts are available on the Attorney General's website www.michigan.gov/consumeralerts.

- 30 -