If you purchase a car from an individual person, instead of a dealer, does the lemon law still take effect?

My boyfriend just purchased a car from a guy and was totally ripped off. The check engine light shows as soon as you start up the car, and they had black electrical tape over it. The car has been repainted because the previous owner was in so many wrecks. There is a few dents in the side, still because of the numerous wrecks, and the guy is acting like he had no idea about it. He went to get it inspected, and there is a few things wrong internally, including the transmission, which would cost 2500 minimum to fix. The guy is now saying that he has already invested into a nother car, for 3200.

I hate to inform you, but lemon laws only apply to vehicles purchased new and owned by the original owner. Even if you purchased it used from a dealer, it wouldn't matter.

Typically when you buy a car from a private owner it's "as is." He should have test-driven it, and if the owner said no, then he should have walked away.

Now if the previous owner had put it in writing that there was nothing wrong with it, and there was, then he'd be in trouble.

THIS IS WHY THE BUYER SHOULD TAKE THE CAR TO BE INSPECTED BEFORE THEY BUY IT. Your boyfriend has just made a classic bad investment. Next time, he'll know better & be able to make a more informed decision before he gives up his hard earned cash. He's S.O.L.!!! PS, the "check engine light" is easily fixed by replacing the electronic plug-in part. It's only a reminder light to get people to check on their fluids & their emission equipment.

No, the lemon law only covers vehicles purchased from a legitimate dealer. That is how it is in most states that have it and you don't indicate which state.

It's buyer beware and you might try small claims court. If bf can prove that he was defrauded, then he might get his money back. He should have had it inspected before he bought it, not after.

Not all states have a lemon law and those that do specifically exclude used cars and private party transactions.