Lemon law buyback title

A lemon law buyback title is a brand that many states add when a manufacturer repurchases a vehicle under a state lemon law because it could not fix defects covered by warranty. The car can be resold, but the brand warns later buyers of its history.

For sellers, the brand lowers resale value and requires honest disclosure. For buyers of used cars, ask for the defect and repair history before you buy.

In California, the manufacturer must have the title and registration marked “Lemon Law Buyback,” title the vehicle in its own name, and attach a “Lemon Law Buyback” decal, typically on the left door frame. The brand applies to vehicles reacquired on or after January 1, 1996.¹