Purchasing a recreational vehicle (RV) represents a significant financial commitment. Unfortunately, repeated mechanical failures or extended service delays can turn that investment into a major inconvenience. If your RV continues to experience problems, Minnesota’s lemon law may offer legal remedies.
How Minnesota defines a “lemon” RV
Minnesota’s lemon law applies to new motor vehicles, including motorhomes with their own propulsion systems. However, it does not typically cover towable RVs like travel trailers. To qualify under the law, a motorhome must exhibit a recurring defect that remains unresolved after several documented repair attempts or must remain out of service for a cumulative total of 30 days during the warranty period.
The law only applies when the defect significantly affects the RV’s usability, market value, or safety. All qualifying repairs must occur within two years of the original delivery date or before the vehicle reaches 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. Keep detailed service records to support your claim.
What repairs and issues qualify
The lemon law addresses substantial mechanical or safety-related issues. Persistent engine stalling, faulty brake systems, and defective steering mechanisms typically qualify. On the other hand, minor cosmetic flaws or problems resulting from owner negligence do not meet the law’s standards.
To proceed with a claim, you must allow the manufacturer a reasonable opportunity to resolve the issue. This typically means completing four unsuccessful repair attempts or proving that the RV remained unusable for at least 30 cumulative days. If your situation meets these thresholds, you may become eligible for a refund or a comparable replacement.
Steps to take before making a claim
Immediately report mechanical issues to the dealer or manufacturer. Maintain copies of all repair invoices and communications. If the problem persists, submit a formal written notice to the manufacturer. In some cases, you may resolve the dispute more efficiently through arbitration.
If your RV meets Minnesota’s lemon law criteria, you may request either a full refund or a replacement vehicle. The law provides accountability when manufacturers deliver defective vehicles that fail to meet basic standards of performance.