Have you bought a used car in Utah only to find out you got a “lemon”—a vehicle with serious problems? You’re not alone. Many Utahns just want a reliable ride, but quickly discover hidden defects or big repair bills that dealerships or private sellers didn’t mention.
Utah’s “lemon law” protections mainly cover new cars, but used car buyers still have important rights under state law—if they act fast and avoid common missteps. Here’s what Utah law really says, your options if you’ve bought a bad car, and seven big mistakes to steer clear of.
What Utah Law Says About Used Car Lemons
Utah’s main “lemon law”—the Utah New Motor Vehicles Warranties Act (Utah Code Ann. § 13-20-1 et seq.)—covers only new cars, not used vehicles. However, used car buyers are still protected by the state’s Consumer Sales Practices Act (Utah Code Ann. § 13-11-1 et seq.). This law prohibits “deceptive” or “unconscionable” practices by Utah car dealers, which could include failing to disclose known problems or rolling back odometers. Utah requires “as-is” disclosures for many used car sales, but if a dealer lies or omits defects they knew about, you may have a valid claim.
- Dealership sales: Utah dealers must disclose known problems. Failing to do so, or misrepresenting the car’s condition, could violate the law.
- Private party sales: Fewer protections—but fraudulent misrepresentation is never allowed.
If your car is unsafe or needs major repairs soon after purchase, you may be able to rescind the deal or claim damages—if you act quickly and document everything.
UT Code Tip: Review the sales contract and your “Buyer’s Guide” sticker. If it says “As Is,” you typically have fewer legal remedies.
Your Options If You Bought a “Lemon” Used Car in Utah
While there’s no specific “used car lemon law” in Utah, your practical steps are:
- Contact the dealer or seller immediately in writing about the problems.
- Get a mechanic’s written report documenting all issues.
- File a complaint with the Utah Division of Consumer Protection for deceptive practices.
- Consider small claims court (usually up to $15,000 in Utah) if you want your money back or repairs paid for.
- For financing issues: If you financed through a dealer and the sale falls apart, notify your finance company, too.
Counties like Salt Lake and Utah County both have justice courts where many small-claims “lemon” cases are handled. Each has its own local procedures, but statewide forms usually apply.
7 Costly Mistakes Utahns Make After Buying a Lemon Used Car
- Waiting too long to complain or request repairs (delay hurts your chances).
- Not getting everything in writing—verbal promises are hard to enforce.
- Ignoring the “as-is” clause or missing important details in the sale paperwork.
- Failing to document problems with photos, receipts, and mechanic reports.
- Not checking if the dealer is licensed (unlicensed sellers may be scammers, and Utah might offer different remedies).
- Skipping the Utah Division of Consumer Protection complaint—this agency can help mediate and spot patterns of fraud.
- Going to court without proof or preparation—Utah courts need clear, organized evidence.
Real-World Example: Utah Cities in Action
After buying a used car from a dealership in Ogden, one Utahn noticed repeated engine trouble just days later—even though the car had just passed a “multi-point inspection.” Because the buyer kept all communications and repair records, they were able to file a formal complaint and settle with the dealer for the cost of repairs.
In Utah County, several small-claims cases have involved used car “as-is” sales where the buyer later learned about a major accident in the car’s history. The buyers lost their case because the defects were disclosed—or should have been found during inspection. Documenting every step and acting fast made the difference.
Quick Checklist: Steps Utahns Should Take
- Gather all documents: contracts, financing papers, repair estimates, emails.
- Send a written complaint to the dealer or private seller—keep a copy.
- Take the car to a licensed Utah mechanic for a full diagnosis.
- File a complaint at the Utah Division of Consumer Protection.
- If unresolved, consult a Utah attorney or consider small claims court.
The Final Word
Utah protects used car buyers from outright fraud, even though there is no dedicated lemon law for used vehicles. If you suspect you bought a lemon, act quickly—document all issues, communicate in writing, and use Utah’s consumer protection agencies and courts as needed. Every car deal is different, but knowing your rights gives you real power.
This article shares legal information, not legal advice. For questions about your specific case, contact a Utah attorney who handles consumer and auto fraud issues.
For more plain-English Utah legal guides, visit Utah Law Explained or see our About Us.