What Is the Lemon Law in Nevada for Used Cars
Nevada's motor vehicle lemon law, codified as NRS 597.600 through 597.688, applies to new motor vehicles and used vehicles that remain under the manufacturer's original express warranty. The statute protects consumers who purchase or lease motor vehicles for personal, family, or household purposes, excluding motor homes and off-road vehicles. Used vehicles may qualify for lemon law protections if defects manifest while warranty coverage remains active, regardless of ownership transfer.
What Protections Do Used Car Buyers Have in Nevada?
Nevada law establishes multiple safeguards for used car purchasers through dealer warranty requirements, federal protections, and consumer protection statutes.
Nevada Used Vehicle Dealer Warranty
Nevada mandates written warranty protections for used vehicles sold with odometer readings of 75,000 miles or greater. Under NRS 482.36662 and 482.36663, dealers must provide written express warranties covering engine, transmission, and drivetrain components. Warranty duration is determined by the vehicle's mileage at sale, with vehicles between 75,000 and 80,000 miles receiving at least 30 days or 1,000 additional miles of coverage, whichever expires first. Vehicles exceeding 80,000 miles receive minimum protection periods established by statute based on mileage increments.
Dealers selling used vehicles with 75,000 or more miles must conduct a reasonably thorough inspection of engine and drivetrain components and furnish written disclosure of any detected defects. This inspection requirement applies regardless of whether the vehicle is marketed "as is," ensuring disclosure occurs before purchase completion.
Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
The federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act establishes liability when manufacturers or dealers breach express written warranties on consumer goods, including automobiles. Consumers may pursue remedies for breach of written warranties, violations of implied warranties, or failure to perform service contracts. Courts may award actual damages, vehicle replacement or refund, and recovery of attorney fees and costs.
FTC Used Car Rule
The Federal Trade Commission's Used Car Rule requires dealers to display a Buyer's Guide on each used vehicle offered for sale. This disclosure must clearly identify whether the vehicle carries dealer-provided warranty coverage or is sold without warranty, specify which systems and components are protected, and inform buyers of their right to arrange independent pre-purchase inspections.
Understanding "As Is" Sales in Nevada
Nevada permits used vehicle sales designated "as is," but dealers retain obligations despite such designations when specific statutory conditions apply.
What "As Is" Means for Buyers
Purchasing a vehicle marketed "as is" means the dealer disclaims liability for defects discovered after sale completion. Buyers assume financial responsibility for all mechanical, structural, and electrical failures occurring following delivery. However, "as is" designations do not eliminate dealer warranty obligations when vehicles exceed 75,000 miles, nor do they nullify written warranties already provided to consumers.
Limited Dealer Disclosure Requirements
Nevada law imposes disclosure obligations that survive "as is" designations. When vehicles register 75,000 or more miles on the odometer, dealers must complete and provide written inspection reports documenting engine and drivetrain condition. Any material defects or safety concerns identified during inspection must be disclosed to buyers before purchase. Dealers must also comply with federal odometer disclosure laws requiring accurate mileage statements at transfer of title.
Limited Exceptions to "As Is" Protection
Nevada buyers retain legal recourse when dealers engage in prohibited conduct despite "as is" language. Buyers may challenge "as is" sales when dealers commit fraudulent misrepresentation concerning vehicle history, condition, accident involvement, or title status. Material concealment of known defects prevents "as is" disclaimers from shielding dealers from liability. Odometer fraud or false mileage documentation creates liability independent of contractual language. Failure to provide required written inspection reports on vehicles exceeding 75,000 miles establishes a dealer breach regardless of "as is" designation.
Filing a Consumer Complaint
Nevada Attorney General
Bureau of Consumer Protection
1 State of Nevada Way, Suite 100, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Phone: (702) 486-3132
Toll-free: (888) 434-9989
Official Website: Nevada Attorney General
