Colorado Car Sales Practice Test

Before taking legal action under Colorado's Lemon Law, what must a consumer do?

1. Send a written notice of the defect

2. Return the vehicle to the dealership

3. Request a warranty extension

4. Repair the vehicle themselves first

The correct answer is: Send a written notice of the defect

In Colorado's Lemon Law, the requirement for a consumer to send a written notice of the defect to the manufacturer is a crucial step before pursuing legal action. This notice serves as an official communication informing the manufacturer about the issues with the vehicle, allowing them the opportunity to address and potentially resolve the problem. It is an important procedural formality that ensures the manufacturer is made aware of the defect and can take action to rectify it, which is a key part of the resolution process. This step is designed to promote communication between the consumer and the manufacturer, facilitating a chance for the manufacturer to repair the vehicle within a reasonable timeframe. If the consumer does not provide this notice, legal actions may not proceed favorably, as the law prioritizes giving the manufacturer an opportunity to correct the defect before escalating to litigation. In contrast, returning the vehicle to the dealership or performing repairs themselves does not fulfill the legal requirement set by the Lemon Law. These actions do not formally notify the manufacturer of the defect, which is necessary for legal recourse. Requesting a warranty extension also does not satisfy the obligation to notify the manufacturer about the defect, and it may not have any bearing on resolving the underlying issues with the vehicle.