lemon

A car that gives you serious trouble soon after you buy it. To qualify under state "lemon laws," the defect must be substantial and must occur within a certain time or mileage period, usually 12,000 miles or one year. You usually have the option of getting a refund or a replacement vehicle for a lemon, though you may have to go to arbitration or court to exercise this option.

Tags: option lemon usually refund miles getting replacement court exercise arbitration