Consumer Rights in Alabama

Alabama's lemon law generally applies after four repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days — both within the first 24 months or 24,000 miles. Manufacturers with a certified arbitration program must be given the opportunity to resolve the dispute before a consumer may file a lawsuit.

Alabama recognizes first-party bad faith claims. To prevail, you may need to show that the insurer had no reasonably arguable basis to deny or delay your claim and acted intentionally. Bad faith claims can be complex — consulting an attorney before filing is advisable.

Most consumer fraud claims in Alabama have a one-year statute of limitations under Ala. Code Section 6-2-39. Breach of warranty claims under the UCC may have a four-year period. Product liability claims generally have a two-year limitation. Acting quickly to consult an attorney is important to preserve your rights.

No. Alabama's lemon law applies only to new motor vehicles purchased or leased for personal use. Used vehicle buyers may have remedies under the UCC implied warranty of merchantability if the sale included a warranty, or under common law fraud if the dealer misrepresented the vehicle's condition.