When you buy or lease a new or used vehicle, you expect it to perform reliably. Unfortunately, many Californians end up with cars that spend more time in the shop than on the road. The state’s lemon law provides strong legal remedies in these circumstances, but the process of filing and pursuing a claim can be confusing.
At My Lemon Firm, we’ve spent years guiding California consumers through high-stakes lemon law cases. Our Santa Monica lemon lawyers have secured substantial recoveries for clients and know how to take on major manufacturers effectively.
Learn more about the lemon law process below, and contact us at (844) 40-Lemon for a free consultation if you’re ready to get started with your case.
Document Your Vehicle Problems in California
The process begins when you notice recurring issues with your car. Keep careful records of things like:
- Dates and mileage of each repair attempt
- Copies of repair orders and invoices
- Communications with the dealership or manufacturer
This documentation will form the foundation of your claim. Without it, proving your case will likely be much harder.
Determine if Your Vehicle Qualifies
California’s Lemon Law generally applies when:
- A substantial defect covered by warranty cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts
- The defect affects the use, value, or safety of the vehicle
- The vehicle is still under the manufacturer’s original warranty
Recent changes have also altered certain lemon law protections, so it’s worth having an attorney review your eligibility even if you’re unsure.
File a Lemon Law Claim in California
Once it looks like your vehicle may qualify, your lawyer will file a claim with the manufacturer. This usually involves sending a demand letter that outlines your situation, your repair history, and the relief you’re seeking. The law allows you to request specific remedies, such as:
- A refund of the purchase price
- A replacement vehicle of similar value
- Cash compensation for the defect
If your case is successful, the manufacturer must also generally pay your attorney’s fees. You can also seek civil penalties in some cases, though there are various requirements you must meet in order to do so.
Negotiations and Resolution
In many cases, manufacturers try to settle before going to court. Your attorney will handle negotiations on your behalf, using your records and expert input to push for a fair outcome. If the manufacturer refuses to cooperate, your attorney can file a lawsuit.
Getting Your Compensation in California
If your claim succeeds, the manufacturer must provide the agreed-upon remedy and cover your attorney’s fees. You can drive away from the process knowing your rights were enforced and your financial interests protected.
California Lemon Law FAQs
What is California Lemon Law?
California’s Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles that substantially impair their use, value, or safety. If your vehicle has repeated issues that cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may have a Lemon Law claim. This applies to both new and certain used vehicles.
Schedule your free consultation with an experienced Santa Monica Lemon Law attorney today
Do I Qualify Under California Lemon Law?
You may qualify under California Lemon Law if your vehicle meets these conditions:
- Purchased or leased in California.
- Has a significant defect covered by warranty.
- Underwent multiple unsuccessful repairs for the same issue within a specific timeframe.
- The defect substantially affects the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.
A Santa Monica Lemon Law attorney can help determine if you meet the qualifications.
How Does The California Lemon Law Process Work?
The Lemon Law process generally involves:
- Notifying the manufacturer of the defect.
- Allowing a reasonable number of repair attempts.
- Filing a claim with the manufacturer or taking legal action.
- If successful, receiving a refund or replacement vehicle.
An experienced Lemon Law lawyer in Santa Monica can handle these steps and ensure you receive the maximum compensation.
What Are California Lemon Law Consumer Rights?
Under California Lemon Law, consumers have the right to:
- A full refund or replacement if the vehicle qualifies as a “lemon.”
- Compensation for incidental costs (e.g., towing, rental cars).
- Legal representation to pursue claims.
Knowing your rights helps ensure manufacturers follow the law and provide fair remedies. Contact a Santa Monica Lemon Law lawyer today.
When Do I Need a California Lemon Lawyer?
You should consult a Lemon Law attorney if:
- Repairs are unsuccessful after multiple attempts.
- The manufacturer disputes your claim.
- You want to ensure maximum compensation.
A Santa Monica Lemon Law lawyer can handle the legal process, communicate with the manufacturer, and fight for your rights while you focus on getting back on the road.
Why Hire the California Lemon Law Attorneys at My Lemon Firm?
Automakers have teams of lawyers and claims specialists on their side. Consumers often struggle to get fair treatment without legal help. At My Lemon Firm, we:
- Focus exclusively on California Lemon Law cases
- Understand the strategies manufacturers use to delay or deny claims
- Gather strong evidence to support your case
- Handle all communication and deadlines for you
- Work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing up front to hire us
With our payment structure, it’s possible you could walk away with maximum compensation without paying anything at all out of pocket. Contact our lemon attorneys today for more information and a free case review.
Contact our California Lemon Law Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation
The California Lemon Law process can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you have legal rights and may be entitled to relief as a result. My Lemon Firm has years of experience helping clients with these kinds of claims and will work just as hard to help you achieve a successful outcome.
Contact our California lemon lawyers today at (844) 40-Lemon for a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.