Electric vehicles (EVs) rely on complex software systems for everything from safety features to drive performance. When that software malfunctions, it can feel just as frustrating as engine trouble. So, can software problems qualify your EV as a lemon under Minnesota law? The short answer is yes—if those glitches seriously affect your car’s use, safety, or value.
How Minnesota defines a lemon
Minnesota’s lemon law applies to new vehicles with substantial defects that affect use, value, or safety. These issues must occur within the warranty period and persist after a reasonable number of repair attempts. If your EV’s software fails in ways that make the vehicle unsafe or undrivable, it could meet this standard. The law doesn’t limit defects to mechanical problems; it includes any serious issue that impacts how your car performs or functions.
Examples of qualifying software glitches
Not all software bugs qualify. But if your EV shuts down unexpectedly, loses power, or has safety systems that don’t function correctly due to software, those problems can be serious enough. For example, a malfunctioning lane-assist or braking system tied to faulty programming could show a defect affecting safety.
Another example is a repeated failure to start or drive correctly due to software errors. These issues could limit your EV’s use or value, especially if the dealership can’t fix the problem after several tries. If your screen freezes or system reboots while driving, that might also count.
What counts as a reasonable repair attempt?
Minnesota law usually allows the manufacturer four repair attempts or 30 cumulative days out of service. If your EV’s software issue continues despite those repair efforts, that supports a lemon claim. Make sure to document every visit, fix, and issue carefully. Keep copies of service reports and emails from the dealer, which help show the ongoing problem and your efforts to get it fixed.
If software problems seriously impact your EV and the dealer can’t fix them in time, you may be entitled to a replacement or refund. The law focuses on the problem’s impact, not just whether it involves hardware or software. Make sure to act quickly while your warranty is still active.