Contrary to what its name suggests, the Texas Lemon Law is not a legislation that deals with the buying and selling of fruits or rule against its bright color.

It does not even come close.

Rather it involves the right of American consumers, who buy vehicles, used or brand new, cars or trucks, to return defective products and ask for a refund.

In general, the Lemon Law requires car manufacturers and not car dealers to refund the money a consumer has paid for if a car is found to be a “lemon.” The definition of a “lemon car” is of course different with every state depending on what the state legislation says. Usually, states differ in their definition of what a “lemon” car is and the period of warranty that is given to the consumer.

The Texas Lemon Law, for one, allows for four repair attempts or 30 days out of service for defects that are not so life-threatening. For serious product defects that pose a serious safety hazard such as problems in the steering wheel or in the brake, the Texas Lemon Law allows for only two repair attempts. If after the stated number of repair attempts, the defects have not been fixed, then a car will considered a “lemon” and therefore eligible for refund. The repair attempts under the Texas Lemon Law should of course happen within a period of two years or 24,000 miles whichever comes first for the four attempts. A period of one year or 12,000 miles is given to defects that affect the safety of the car.

Similar to other state laws, the Texas Lemon Law also requires consumers to have their cars fixed in authorized service centers and to make no unauthorized modification or alterations in the car. This is done to avoid questions that will be raised by manufacturer as they are accorded the right to investigate and challenge the claim. If the defect has been found to be caused by neglect, abuse and alterations not sanctioned by the manufacturer then no refunds will be given.