Worried Your Used Car Might Be a Lemon? 5 Things To Look For When Buying a Used Vehicle

We know that buying a used car can raise questions. Spending thousands of dollars only to find out within weeks that the vehicle is a “lemon”—a vehicle with a serious, recurring defect that you, as the buyer, were unaware of—can be stressful. While Arizona does have a law regarding defective vehicles, it is quite restrictive when it comes to used cars.

The law covers serious defects only within the first 15 days or 500 miles, compared to the 2-year or 24,000-mile coverage for new cars. As a result, once you sign the contract, you’re practically unprotected. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for before buying a used car in Arizona, so that it’s an investment that’s truly worth it.

Before you sign a contract, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the 5 red flags that may indicate a car is a potential “lemon.” 

1. A Vehicle History Report That Reveals Hidden Lemon Red Flags

To avoid having to consult a lemon law attorney for cars in AZ, you should request a comprehensive vehicle history report before purchasing a used car. This document provides information that isn’t always included in the sales ad. If you don’t know this information, you may later discover problems that the seller was keeping hidden.

What the VIN Report Exposes About a Used Vehicle’s Past

The vehicle’s unique identifier can be found in the vehicle identification number (VIN). This number gives you access to a history that, as a potential buyer, you’ll find very valuable. From it, you can determine whether the car was involved in major accidents, whether it has a salvage title, whether it was rebuilt after being totaled, whether the odometer was tampered with, or how many previous owners it has had. In short, all of this information is very important to you.

With this information, you can get a sense of the vehicle’s history. It can help you identify certain patterns that might indicate persistent mechanical problems, such as previous rebuilds or accidents.

Is a Car a “Lemon”? The Main Red Flags

No one wants to buy a car that, just weeks later, needs repairs for issues you weren’t aware of. Find out what might be hiding behind that purchase that seems so affordable:

None of these situations by themselves indicate that the car is defective. However, they do provide sufficient grounds to investigate much more thoroughly before proceeding with the purchase—and in many cases, to walk away if doubts remain.

2. Defects a Pre-Purchase Inspection Can Catch Before You Buy

Does the car’s history seem clean? There’s still a chance the vehicle could have hidden major problems. That’s why an inspection by an independent mechanic remains one of the best investments you can make before closing the deal. This can prevent you from having to consult with an AZ lemon law attorney down the road.

What a Mechanic Finds That a Lemon Seller Won’t Mention

There are several virtually invisible faults in cars that can only be detected by experienced technicians:

These malfunctions can lead to costly and recurring repairs, even just a few weeks after purchase.

Why the Seller’s “Runs Great” Isn’t Proof

You’ll probably hear the buyer say things like: “It works perfectly,” “It’s never given me any trouble,” or “It’ll last you for many years.” However, no matter how honest the seller may seem, those statements are no substitute for a professional inspection.

It may be that an owner decides to sell a car because repairs are becoming too frequent or too expensive. Even with the best of intentions, the owner may not even be aware of hidden damage to the car.

An independent inspection reduces the chances of purchasing a vehicle with hidden defects and can prevent you from having to file claims later on.

3. The “AS-IS” Trap That Leaves You Stuck With a Lemon

One of the biggest risks when buying a used car arises when the contract states that the sale is “AS-IS.” Not all buyers understand what that means. Find out what it entails.

What “AS-IS” Really Means When the Car Turns Out To Be a Lemon

If a sale is listed as “AS-IS,” it means you’re buying the vehicle “as is.” In most cases, the seller does not offer any additional guarantees regarding its performance.

In other words: if the car develops a major mechanical problem even days after the purchase, the cost of repairs will typically fall on the buyer. The seller is off the hook.

However, there are situations where other legal protections may apply—especially if there was fraud or a breach of federal warranties. Nevertheless, an “AS-IS” contract significantly limits your options.

Get Every Promise in Writing Before You Sign

Has the seller promised to make a repair, provide a warranty, or even cover certain damages? Never rely solely on verbal assurances. Insist that everything be put in writing.

Verbal promises are very difficult to prove later on, even for a good lemon law attorney for RVs in Arizona. 

4. Warning Signs From the Seller and the Model’s Lemon History

Reviewing the seller’s history and the model you’re trying to buy increases the likelihood that you’ll make a good investment rather than one you’ll regret later.

Vetting the Dealer or Private Seller for a Pattern of Lemons

Don’t hand your money over to just anyone. Instead, take just a few minutes to check the reputation of the dealership or private seller.

You can do this on sites like Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau. If there are no reviews, it doesn’t mean that anything is wrong, but it’s better to find someone who does. 

If you find multiple comments about vehicles with serious mechanical problems, lack of transparency, or difficulties honoring warranties, you should look for better options.

Checking Known Defects and Recalls Before You Commit

We always recommend checking the vehicle’s year, make, and model. This isn’t necessarily because the seller is acting in bad faith, but certain cars do have known defects.

These problems can be with the engine, transmission, electrical system or safety features. Check to see if there are any open recalls that were never fixed. 

5. Warranty Coverage That Protects You if It Becomes a Lemon

Has a vehicle caught your eye? Before signing any documents, you need to take the time to understand the warranty that comes with the vehicle. 

Manufacturer vs. Dealer vs. Extended Warranties on Used Cars

Not all warranties offer the same protection.

You should always read each option to find out what it includes and avoid any surprises.

Questions To Ask So a Lemon Doesn’t Become Your Problem

These questions can help you decide whether to make the purchase:

• How long is the warranty valid?
• Which components are covered?
• Who authorizes and pays for repairs?
• Is there a return period for the vehicle?
• Where must repairs be performed?

If there are clear answers to these questions, that can be a good indicator for making informed decisions. It can save you the trouble of having to find a lemon law attorney for trucks in Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Used Car That Might Be a Lemon

Find out everything about the chances of a car being a “lemon”. 

How Can I Tell if a Used Vehicle Is a Lemon?

We recommend consulting a mechanic to check for recurring breakdowns, a history of major repairs, incomplete maintenance records, or constant malfunctions.

Does Arizona Lemon Law Cover Used Vehicles?

While laws do exist, protection for used vehicles in Arizona is much more limited than for new ones. Serious defects must appear within a very short period to be covered.

Is a Vehicle History Report Enough to Avoid Buying a Lemon?

No. A vehicle history report may be very useful, but it’s also a good idea to have an independent mechanical inspection performed before you make a final decision to purchase.

Should You Buy a Used Vehicle Sold “AS-IS”?

It depends on the circumstances. An “AS-IS” sale typically means the vehicle is sold without additional warranties, so it’s important to thoroughly examine its condition.

Can I Sue if I Bought a Lemon?

Maybe. The facts of your purchase could offer legal avenues on federal warranties or false or omitted information made during the sale.

When Should I Contact Goodman Lemon Law?

If your vehicle has serious and recurring defects shortly after purchase or if you believe the seller withheld important information, we can evaluate your case.

Already Think You Bought a Lemon? Talk to an Arizona Lemon Law Attorney

Even with all this information, it’s possible to buy a vehicle with serious and recurring defects. If this is your situation, you should know that there may still be legal options available. Even if the sale was made “AS-IS,” there are situations related to federal warranties, misleading representations, or breach of contract that may be considered.

At Goodman Lemon Law, we help Arizona clients who have purchased defective vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, and boats. Here’s what our clients have to say about our services:

Do you think you might have bought a lemon? It’s crucial to understand your legal options as soon as possible. Request a free case evaluation. Call 480-808-1538 today or contact us online.

Goodman Lemon Law

935 E Main St., Suite 205,
Mesa. AZ 85203
Office: (480) 808-1538