Lemon Law

[clutchless1]

Just wondering. My FJR has been in the shop for almost two weeks without being looked at. I know it is summer time and these shops get backed up, but I would figure Yamaha would keep better track of these things, especially the bikes under warranty that may have a Lemon Law getting ready to bite them in the behind. Someone sent me a copy of it today (wonder why they did that?)I know the limitation is 30 days in the State of Maryland, that's 30 days the bike can't be ridden. Right now the bike has been sitting for almost half of that time right now. Granted there are more ways than the loss of your vehicle for more than a period of time in which a vehicle can be covered under the Lemon Law, but this blows.

I really don't want to see her go, but I depend on it to start and run when I need it. I'm getting to the point where I'm more confused by this situation. I'm fairly sure I know why it's broke and would jump in and fix the thing myself even if the parts cost me a couple of hundred to do. But the bike is new and under warranty? I'm thinking if I did fix the thing now; what if the bike took a dump again? Then What? Tell them I want a new A Model and not the AE Model again? I got the AE for a reason.

One thing for sure, I don't like anything else on the market. The FJR is the absolute cleanest looking bike I've seen in a while, I really want to at least still own a FJR.

Any Ideas? C1

 

[twowheelnut]

Never heard of an FJR going back via the Lemon Law. I'd do two things: Insist on a time frame for the work to be done, or failing satisfaction there, yank it and find a dealer who can do the work. What's wrong with it?

 

[weekend rider]

If he sends it back it will be the first yellow FJR in the USA :yahoo:

couldn't resist weekend rider

 

[Ignacio]

And just what does the Lemon Law potentially do for you in Maryland if they exceed 30 days? Refund purchase price? Refund prorated price? Give you another comparable motorcycle?

I'd set a deadline with them...and if they don't comply RUN to another dealer.

 

[Windjammer]

I would:

1) Not worry anymore about the lemon law until the time comes that you've actually surpassed the requirements for it. For now, focus on getting the bike fixed.

2) Check the local dealers to see how busy they are. Get a commitment on repair time, if possible, and let them know you are serious about it. Speak to Service Managers only when having this discussion, and let them know you expect to hold them to their word.

3) If you find a dealer with a better ability to serve you, move the bike there.

4) If you find no relief from taking the above steps, call Yamaha and calmly explain the entire situation, then ask them to intervene on your behalf.

Dude, it absolutely sucks in the hugest way when this **** happens. But remember things could always be worse!! Here's hoping they fix your bike right the first time and you enjoy many happy hours riding your scoot!!!

WJ

 

[sprint_st]

I was under the impression that the Lemon Law's that various states have was for the vehicle that had chronic problems that kept it in the shop. My interpretation of your situation is there really isn't anything wrong with the bike that a reputable dealer could not solve. The lemon is the dealer not the bike. My first step would be to call Yamaha customer service and see if they might help. Then as soon as I got off the hook with Yamaha, I'd do like Windjammer and others have said - get a firm commitment on a repair date and if you can't get one, pull it.

 

[T-man]

I called Yamaha Customer service at (1.800.962.7926) concerning the surge issue. They called my dealer and got the ball rolling, which is something I was having trouble doing. At least I have an appointment now. The more people that call the better. Good luck.

 

[Cdogman]

Blow up their house, screw their dog, and put sugar in their gas tanks.......... Throw water balloons filled with roundup on theire lawn.. ********

Id be pissed, but I would not be passive at all waiting for time to pass... Fukem and cover them with feathers I say!!

 

[Nightwind15]

Where can I get some of the Sigar?????

JK

 

[chiefj48]

Just wondering. My FJR has been in the shop for almost two weeks without being looked at. I know it is summer time and these shops get backed up, but I would figure Yamaha would keep better track of these things, especially the bikes under warranty that may have a Lemon Law getting ready to bite them in the behind. Someone sent me a copy of it today (wonder why they did that?)I know the limitation is 30 days in the State of Maryland, that's 30 days the bike can't be ridden. Right now the bike has been sitting for almost half of that time right now. Granted there are more ways than the loss of your vehicle for more than a period of time in which a vehicle can be covered under the Lemon Law, but this blows.
I really don't want to see her go, but I depend on it to start and run when I need it. I'm getting to the point where I'm more confused by this situation. I'm fairly sure I know why it's broke and would jump in and fix the thing myself even if the parts cost me a couple of hundred to do. But the bike is new and under warranty? I'm thinking if I did fix the thing now; what if the bike took a dump again? Then What? Tell them I want a new A Model and not the AE Model again? I got the AE for a reason.

One thing for sure, I don't like anything else on the market. The FJR is the absolute cleanest looking bike I've seen in a while, I really want to at least still own a FJR.

Any Ideas? C1

if you lost the use of your bike for a total of thirty days, they have to buy it back. it doesn't have to be thirty days in a row.

 

[flyinlow]

Here is a link to a summary page of motorcycle lemon laws for all 50 states. I see alot of states don't include motorcycles under the lemon laws (my state included) so make sure your state actually has one.

https://www.ohiolemonlaw.com/state-motorcycle-lemon-law.html

 

[gski02]

Just wondering. My FJR has been in the shop for almost two weeks without being looked at. I know it is summer time and these shops get backed up, but I would figure Yamaha would keep better track of these things, especially the bikes under warranty that may have a Lemon Law getting ready to bite them in the behind. Someone sent me a copy of it today (wonder why they did that?)I know the limitation is 30 days in the State of Maryland, that's 30 days the bike can't be ridden. Right now the bike has been sitting for almost half of that time right now. Granted there are more ways than the loss of your vehicle for more than a period of time in which a vehicle can be covered under the Lemon Law, but this blows.
I really don't want to see her go, but I depend on it to start and run when I need it. I'm getting to the point where I'm more confused by this situation. I'm fairly sure I know why it's broke and would jump in and fix the thing myself even if the parts cost me a couple of hundred to do. But the bike is new and under warranty? I'm thinking if I did fix the thing now; what if the bike took a dump again? Then What? Tell them I want a new A Model and not the AE Model again? I got the AE for a reason.

One thing for sure, I don't like anything else on the market. The FJR is the absolute cleanest looking bike I've seen in a while, I really want to at least still own a FJR.

Any Ideas? C1

Here's the link for Maryland lemon law. https://www.oag.state.md.us/Consumer/lemon.htm

It's not fun to prove, I've been trying in on a vehicle who's odometer had to be replaced, which makes it "TMU" (total mileage unknown) and practically worthless. According to what I saw, it's out of service for 30 days or after 3+ attempts. You've got to follow the BS that's in there of notifying the manufacturer of the problem. There's also the dreaded, "substantial impairment of value" statement. That'd be if they had to replace your engine or trans. Then you could tell them, gimme another one please. It's BS, but other than that it's time to sit on the dealer and contact Yamaha if you haven't done so already.

g <_<

 

[clutchless1]

I wanted to say I got some great responses from the people kind enough to give me their opinions. It was almost too funny (bad choice of word) when I signed all of the financial paperwork the sales person made sure I saw this one document containing the Lemon Law in the State of Maryland. After reviewing what it meant I had to sign stating I got a copy of it.

I spoke to my wife earlier and said basically the same thing someone else agreed with, the bike isn't the problem, the Dealership is. Unfortunately the dealers around here are dead in the water when it comes to having enough qualified techs to work on so many bikes during prime riding season.

A good thing here in Maryland is the Lemon Law does apply to Motorcycles as it does for vehicles (thank goodness) and yes if this bike is out of my hands for more than 30 days for any reason at all, it's considered a Lemon. This 30 day deal does not have to be in a row either, it's 30 days combined if this happens within the first 15 months. (I've had the bike for almost 5 months).

This is an AE Model, it blew a 15 amp signaling fuse in a parking lot. This took out the start circuit, I figured I may get lucky enough to put another fuse in, start it up to at least get home. It started alright, but then the bike wouldn't go into gear, at this point I figured I'd do something stupid, so I got a ride home, hooked the trailer up and brought the sick puppy home. Once home I was so tempted to tear into it to see if I could find the problem, but these warranty issues came into play, I really didn't want to shoot myself in the foot.

The thing that kills me is when I looked to buy this bike, no-one had any around here except this one, the AE Model. I was so thinking this new model with "Yamaha Chip Controlled-Shift" could be problems down the road, so much so I thought about not getting it because of this feature. When I decided to buy it, I ended up adding Y.E.S. for another 4 years on top of the 1 year Yamaha gives you because of the YCCS, first year 2nd generation with YCCS?

I'm at a crossroad right now........I absolutely love the ride, the look, the handeling, and almost everything about this bike, but this YCCS deal may be kicking it's ass right now. I just don't like the fact I took a brand new bike out and broke down. The biggest issue for me is I have had 7 major back surgeries, I've got the typical screws, rods, and brackets implanted, I've had two fusions (one failed) so when I break down and have to find a way to get home, lets just say I can't walk too far. My thoughts right now are if this goes on for too long I may just tell them I want the A Model, I would have at least gotten home that day on the A Model.

The bike has 1750 miles on it, usually if there is a problem it shows up early. One other item is the throttle binds up and causes it to stick in the open position, I had been aware of this since new and was going to have to take it in for warranty repair anyway. The throttle thing wasn't so bad it would cause a crash, it would bind for a second and then let go, I just got used to it. I really wanted to wait until the fall or winter before I had it repaired so I wouldn't mis any of the riding season.

Right now I'm not a happy camper, but I can understand the long time frame due to prime riding season to a degree. I guess Yamaha doesn't keep track of these sick bikes that do fall under the Lemon Laws. I did call Yamaha and told them I needed to take the bike in for repair, and it would be this large amount of time before they could even look at it. Basically l was told, just get it in and we'll take care of it if it's warranty. By the way, if anyone is under the impression if their bike breaks down while under warranty Yamaha will send someone locally to pick it up and take it to a repair facility? WRONG! They will pay up to $50.00 if it a warranty repair, and you're on your own getting it picked up. Make sure you have pickup and towing with your insurance carrier (I did, but opted to pick it up and tow it myself, I didn't want my ride messed up by someone else who could give a **** less about it) she might be sick, but she's still mine.

Sorry for the book, but trying to explain some of the problems I had. Hopefully this helps others if they ever have this happen to them. We may need to get some VooDoo going against the FJR demons.

Ride Safe, C1 (I'l be driving safe, I just sold my other bike this week...........SUCKS!)

 

[Bounce]

yeah, i was about to say it sounded like a dealer problem and not a bike/yamaha problem.

 

[bramfrank]

OK, you're pissed. But it has yet to be 30 days and the rest of the waiting period is a lot of days. The dealer knows about the lemon laws, you can be certain.

In fact, assuming that they mean 'consecutive days' and not 'business days' it is as many days as they've already had it which got you upset in the first place. If the waiting period is 'business days' (because dealers can't be expected to work on weekends or holidays and the law may well have allowances for this) then this period will be six weeks (or longer, allowing for holidays). It is unlikely that they'll miss the deadline.

I myself never considered the AE. I never would except perhaps to have gotten the speed-sensitive heated grips. Maybe in 20 years, when the concept is more common, but I think I can handle the clutch myself for now, thanks. If they didn't have an 'A" I would have passed. JMHO.

The binding throttle isn't/can't be serious. In fact most people who complain bitch about how hard the throttle pulls - and the reason for the two cables is to let you return the throttle to the idle position. While it is supposed to return by itself, if it doesn't you weren't expected to just let the grip go each time to bring the TBs to idle..

It's likely a lubrication or a routing issue - I've seen one case where the cables were crossed/twisted.

Since you didn't want an AE, and, in the event that they do get put in a position to buy your bike back you can get the nice, new Black Cherry '07 you wanted in the first place and put a couple of $$$ in your pocket, to boot.

Start rooting for the bike.

As to towing? No manufacturer includes towing as part of the warranty per se - though they will pay (and even arrange the tow) if they offer a 'roadside assistance' package - my CAA (like AAA) membership provides this, as do both my motorcycle and auto insurance policies. But the manufacturer generally does not, though they may reimburse up to $50 for breakdowns resulting from warranted failures, depending on just who we're discussing. It may be a case-by-case or policy decision and not enshrined in the guarantee.

 

[chiefj48]

bramfrank

the reason for the thirty day limit is so that the DEALER DOES NOT SIT ON THE BIKE. i was a warranty manager for five years, and believe me i know what i'm talking about. if your going to give someone advice, you should know what your talking about. this post is not to insult you, or anyone else.

i know i would not stand for my bike sitting in any shop without being fixed for a warranty issue!!

 

[clutchless1]

The most important thing is I want people who comment or read about this to know I'm in no way dis-satisfied with the FJR. I know from working on mechanical and electronic things my whole life, all things mechanical and electronic can and do break down. After going through a lot of reports from owners and what they have said about these bikes; I have found there have been a very few of the FJR's have actually broken down to the point where they need to be taken back to the dealer because they quit running, either that or no-one is bringing these matters up on the Forum.

While I've had some time to think about all of this, I've come to the conclusion and finally figured out what FJR really stands for? Fooo Jitsoooo Rocket! (no insult intended, I just have a lot of free time lately) Athough mine isn't rocketing around right now, hopefully it will soon be back in the road burning business. And hopefully business will be good.

I have owwned at least 10 different bikes during my years of riding to include another model Yamaha makes. The FJR by far is the absolute best thing I have ever ridden so far, the technology built into this bike has to make you smile when you're riding it. Granted because of previous injury I don't do the long rides, but when I do ride I enjoy everything this bike has to offer, a very important fact for me is it's light weight combined with it's technology. What can you say? For the biggest bang for the buck the FJR has got to be just that, where else can you get the looks wrapped around all of this technology, it's just a total fun package for the money that will haul the mail when you want it to.

The AE Model takes some getting used to, but this also has a lot to offer a rider. I would say honestly for every one thing you don't like about YCCS, this system will give you something you do like about it. I would try to explain this as a Love Hate relationship. Sometimes you Love it and somtimes you Hate it, I don't know if there really is a middle ground. The AE makes the rider re-learn the basic control of a motorcycle, an example would be, if you go too slow making a turn the clutch kicks out and the bike wants to fall over. To overcome the sudden instability you panic and grab a handful of throttle (you know, the tight assed throttle) the next thing you're doing a wheelie because the throttle is hard to control and you gave it too much. This Model can take a great rider and really make them feel like a beginner again, if you have never ridden one for a while, you really can't grasp the comments until you try it for yourself.

I will Venture to say once a rider gets used to all of the little quirks the AE Model throws at you and actually master the clutch kicking out, the stiff throttle, shifting without slamming the driveshaft, having the bike in 1st while backing into a parking space and accidently blipping the throttle, little things like this and there are lots more. I would say this rider would not go quietly into the night if they had to give up their AE Model. Oh she's a royal pain in the ass, but it slows your ass down in a big way because of all of these little learning curves......for me that could be a good thing. Just goes to show you, you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Ride Safe C1

 

[FJRandy]

Wow, all this fuss for a bike that's sitting in a dealer for only 2 weeks in the SUMMER? Only the BUSIEST time of year?

Go figure. Hey it's not like they have any OTHER bikes to work on before yours, right?

I think you should count your blessings if you get it back before 2 months. Mine was in the dealer for the valve warranty, and they had if for 3 months....IN THE WINTER!!!

 

[clutchless1]

Here is an update for all who are interested, and for those who want to say something nasty....... Get a life. I took the FJR In on July 7th for a repair some seemed to think wasn't a big deal. If it wasn't a big deal the bike would have never hit the dealership in the first place. After finding this dealership had the bike for 17 days without touching it I decided I was going to act and use the Lemon Law in order to get something done. I wrote a Registered return reciept requested Letter and sent it to Yamaha Motor Corporation USA in California (which I am required to do by law). I also called Corporate and spoke to Yamaha's Product Specialist directly to let him know what was happening.

Not hearing from anyone about any of this since I called this past Tuesday, I decided to call the dealership Friday afternoon. The service writer informed the bike has been on the lift since Wednesday and they haven't been able to find the problem. These mechanics have been back and forth on the phone with Yamaha, so far no-one seems to know why or what is causing the fuse to blow. I was promised the bike would not be removed from the lift until it's fixed. The unfortunate fact about this situation was, if I were to taken the bike to another dealership, I would HAVE lost my spot in line and have to start at the bottom again, I had to give them a chance to fix it. If they can't fix it with Yamaha's help...........who can??????? I'm sure the people who designed it can fix it.........but it may be 2008 or 2009 before I see it again, I don't think it will be that bad.

Let me say this, These Laws are written to protect buyers in situations just like this. The important fact here is I am following the letter of the Law by doing exactly what it says I need to do. Granted it's in the middle of the summer, and there are those who think I should bow down and kiss my own ass and wait until winter or three months as someone else did to get my bike fixed, brother........That ain't happening. If for some stupid reason someone thinks I'm going to or should wait until a dealership graces me with trying to repair my FJR at their convience because they think they "DID THE RIGHT THING" and waited? You can wait, I ain't! I was a service writer for the Largest seller of motorcycles in the USA, so I know when the game is being played. This Law states "if the vehicle has been out of service for at least 30 days for repairs, during the first 15 months or 15,000 miles of warranty. A person is entitled to a new vehicle or a refund for the vehicle you bought. The 30 day is total time the owner is unable to use their vehicle, this time doesn't start all over again if the first repair was 29 days, and the second repair was 3 days. The fact is a total of 30 days the owner is without their vehicle because of warranty repair, once that 30 day mark is reached, by Maryland Lemon Law, it's considered a Lemon.

This is being written so others who may have the same thing happen to them know what to expect and how to use the rules and regulations in their favor. In the middle of the summer why should any dealership fix any warranty repair when they make a lot more money selling custom parts and installing them? The truth is (not all dealerships are included in this, just a few) they make the big money when they can, and that's right now. These Laws are on the books to help you (not all States have a Lemon Law) use them if you need to.

Be Safe, C1