It's important to note that in North Carolina, lemon law doesn't apply to used vehicles, only new ones.

Fortunately, you can have a mechanic check out a car, and have the purchase of that car be contingent on a positive checkup from the mechanic. Also, like in some other states, there is a three-day "cooling off" period where you can return the vehicle to the dealership if you have second thoughts about your new car purchase.

If your new car or truck ends up being at the repair shop for 20 business days (not necessarily consecutive) during any 12-month period of your warranty, you probably have a lemon vehicle.

If a defect is found in your new car during your warranty, the dealer generally has 15 days maximum to fix it.

If you want all of your money back for your lemon car, you might have a tough road ahead of you. The N.C. Department of Justive allows a "reasonable allowance for use", which means that the car manufacturer can deduct money based on how many miles you drove your vehicle. Basically, you have to pay for the usage that you did get out of your car, even if it is a lemon vehicle.

If you've discovered that you have a lemon vehicle, it's strongly recommended that you contact an attorney. Many lawyers offer a free first-visit consultation. Once you have a lawyer, the manufacturer will be eager to settle out of court to avoid high trial costs. Bottom line, please seek legal advice if you think that your car is a lemon.