Sour Deals With Lemons By now most people will understand the term lemon' when it is applied to cars. That is, a car - new or used - which has defects that were undetectable on purchase but shows themselves up within a given time or warranty period. Some unscrupulous sellers will hide the true state of the vehicle hoping that the innocent buyer will simply accept the faults and struggle to get them fixed. However, some states have laws protecting the victim from such shoddy acts. In all cases, if you are not machine minded, it is better to take someone along who knows about engines etc., to give the vehicle the once over. Don't be in a hurry to buy and take your time asking pertinent questions about the vehicle. If the car looks like it has been around for a while and yet the miles clocked up seem low chances are that this car has been tampered with. Similarly, uneven wear on tires from right to left or front to back may also be revealing something unsavory. Once the vehicle has been purchased it is good to get into the habit of noting all defects as and when they occur. Take care to note all down time' suffered and keep receipts of necessary vehicle hire to replace this vehicle. Check with your state laws to see if the lemon law has been legislated in your area. Each state differs on what is and what is not considered a lemon. If the lemon law does not apply in your state perhaps it is time to lobby your congressman!