How Long Can a Dealership Hold Your Car for a Warranty Repair in Mississippi?

You took your car in for a warranty repair, thinking it would be a quick fix. Days turned into weeks, and now, you’re wondering—how long is too long?

If you’ve been stuck waiting for a repair that seems to have no end in sight, you’re not alone. Many car owners find themselves in this frustrating situation, unsure of their consumer rights or how to move forward.

Let’s talk about what you can do if your warranty repair is taking too long and how the law protects you.

What’s Covered Under a Car Warranty?

First things first—if your car repair is covered under warranty, the dealership or repair shop is legally obligated to fix the issue.

But what happens when they take their sweet time? Whether it’s a parts shortage, an overbooked mechanic, or just plain stalling, you shouldn’t have to wait forever.

Your warranty agreement likely spells out the repair terms, but what it doesn’t clarify is how long you should reasonably wait. That’s where state law and federal law, like the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, step in to protect you.

How Long is “Too Long” for a Warranty Repair?

There’s no magic number when it comes to how long a dealership can take to fix your car. However, both Mississippi’s Lemon Law and federal consumer protection laws recognize that repairs must be completed within a reasonable time. If your repair process is dragging on for weeks or months, you might have legal options.

What Does Mississippi’s Lemon Law Say?

Mississippi’s Lemon Law (Mississippi Code § 63-17-157) states that if a new car has a significant defect that isn’t fixed within a reasonable timeframe, the owner may be entitled to a refund or a replacement vehicle. In many cases, if your car has been in the shop for 30 days or more due to repairs, it may be considered a lemon under state law.

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act—A Federal Safety Net

On a national level, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act ensures that companies honor their warranty policies. If the warranty company or repair shop is dragging its feet, you have the right to file a complaint or even take legal action.

What to Do If Your Warranty Repair Is Taking Too Long

1. Ask to Speak with the Service Manager

The first step is to politely ask to speak with a service manager or supervisor. Sometimes, the repair shop just needs a little push to prioritize your vehicle. Be direct but courteous—explain how long you’ve been waiting and ask for a clear timeline.

If they seem dismissive:

• Ask if there’s someone higher up you can speak with.
• Remind them of any previous commitments they made regarding your repair.
• Stay firm but professional to ensure your concerns are taken seriously.

2. Check If You Qualify for a Loaner or Rental Car

Being without a car is frustrating, but some warranty terms offer a rental car or loaner if your repair is taking longer than expected.

If you’re paying for a rental car out-of-pocket, check if your warranty agreement allows for reimbursement. Don’t assume they’ll offer it—ask directly!

If they refuse:

• Request the denial in writing.
• Check if there are any alternative options they can provide.
• Keep records of any rental expenses in case you can claim reimbursement later.

3. Keep a Paper Trail

Documentation is your best friend. Save everything related to your repair, including:

• Emails and phone calls with the dealership or warranty company, especially if they promise a completion date.
• Receipts for rental cars or alternative transportation, in case you need to request reimbursement later.
• Repair invoices and timelines to track how long your vehicle has been out of commission.

If things escalate, having these documents will make your case much stronger, whether you’re negotiating with the dealership or seeking legal action.

4. File a Complaint with Consumer Protection Agencies

If your repair under warranty is at a standstill and you’re getting nowhere with the dealership, you can file a consumer complaint with agencies like:

• The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office
• The Better Business Bureau (BBB)

These organizations can apply pressure and may help you get a resolution faster.

5. Talk to a Consumer Protection Attorney

If all else fails and you’re stuck in an endless loop of delays, it may be time to consult with a consumer protection attorney. A lawyer can help you determine if you have a case under:

• Mississippi’s Lemon Law
• The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
• Other consumer protection laws

This step might sound intimidating, but sometimes, simply having legal representation can get results much faster than going it alone.

When Should You Consider Legal Action?

If your car warranty repair is taking longer than a reasonable amount of time, and the dealership or warranty company is giving you the runaround, filing a lawsuit might be your best option.

Common signs that it’s time to take things further include:

• Your car has been in the repair shop for 30+ days.
• The dealership keeps making excuses and pushing back completion dates.
• The warranty company is refusing to honor your warranty policy.

You Deserve to Get Your Car Back

No one should have to wait forever for a warranty repair. If your vehicle repairs are taking longer than expected, you have legal options to hold the repair shop, dealership, or warranty company accountable. Knowing your rights as a consumer can save you time, money, and frustration.

If you’re stuck in a never-ending car repair nightmare, Ware Law Firm, PLLC is here to help. Our consumer protection attorneys understand the ins and outs of lemon law claims and warranty disputes.

Contact us today—let’s get your car back on the road where it belongs.