Does the lemon law apply to cars past their warranty period?

Generally, no. The exception is where the defect arises within the warranty period, and is not fixed within the warranty period, and the consumer gives the manufacturer and dealer written notice within 60 days of the last unsuccessful repair attempt for the defect. In such a case, the warranty is extended as to that defect until it is repaired.  more

Yes, if you took the vehicle in for repair during the warranty period. If the dealer failed to repair it at that time, the defect remains a warranty item.  more