Car Purchases & Repairs

What you need to know

There is NO three-day right to cancel or rescind an automobile purchase.

Once you purchase a vehicle, you assume responsibility for it. Some sellers may have policies allowing for the return of a vehicle within a determined time period, but this is decided by the seller and is NOT required by law. Typically, sellers who do offer such a policy will only accept returns in exchange for credit towards the purchase of a different vehicle.

Complaints regarding auto theft, odometer fraud, and failure to deliver a title should be addressed to the Utah Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division .

Lemon Law

Utah’s "Lemon Law," also known as the New Motor Vehicles Warranties Act, applies to new vehicles, purchased or leased, which manifest significant defects that cannot be repaired.

If a vehicle qualifies under the Lemon Law, it may be eligible for replacement by the manufacturer or you may be entitled to a refund of the full purchase price less a reasonable allowance for your use of the vehicle. Click here to see if your vehicle qualifies under the New Motor Vehicles Warranties Act .

Additional info

Repairs

A mechanic must obtain your express authorization for repairs, inspections, or other services. Before authorizing anything, make sure that the mechanic has discussed the following things with you:

  • Anticipated repairs, inspection or other services to be performed
  • Estimated charges for those repairs, inspections or other services; and
  • The reasonably expected completion date of such repairs, inspection or other services to be performed.

If the repair, inspection, or other service will cost more than $50.00, the mechanic must provide you with a copy or transcript of your authorization on or before the time that you receive a bill. A mechanic also must obtain your express authorization for additional, unforeseen, but necessary, repairs, inspections, or other services if their cost amounts to 10% or more of your original estimate.

Generally, it is always a good idea to ask for a written estimate outlining costs for both parts and labor before any work is performed.

If a discrepancy does arise between you and a mechanic, you should first attempt to solve the issue directly with a service manager. Repair shops typically have an interest in satisfying consumer complaints so as to retain customers. If you are unable to reach a resolution in this way, you may consider contacting the Division.