How many times do I have to take my car back for the same problem for the lemon law to take affect?

It will depend on the state law. Lemon laws vary and sometimes has to be different problems. In other words, you could have to change the transmission 4 times and it not be covered but if you have 4 different major mechanical problems in a certain time it would be covered. (i.e. transmission goes out, air condition goes out, electrical system goes out, and the car over heats causing problems within the firs year)

What state are you in?

the precise wording has to be on a website somewhere.

mississippi

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