Buying or leasing a car is a big investment. When the vehicle you purchase repeatedly breaks down or never works the way it should, it can feel like you’ve been sold a lemon. California has one of the strongest Lemon Laws in the country, but not every defect or inconvenience qualifies.
Learning about what makes a vehicle a “lemon” under state law is the first step in knowing your rights and protecting yourself. If you need help with a claim, contact our Santa Monica lemon law attorneys today for a free consultation at (844) 40-Lemon.
The Basics of California’s Lemon Law
California’s Lemon Law is part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act. It protects consumers who purchase or lease new or certain used vehicles covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. The law requires carmakers to repair defects that substantially affect a vehicle’s use, value, or safety.
If the manufacturer can’t fix the issue after a reasonable number of attempts, they must provide a refund or otherwise financially compensate the consumer.
What Types of Vehicles Are Covered Under the California Lemon Law?
Not every type of vehicle qualifies under California’s Lemon Law. Coverage generally includes:
- New cars, trucks, SUVs, boats, motorcycles, and vans purchased or leased for personal use
- Certified pre-owned vehicles are sold with a manufacturer’s warranty
- Certain business vehicles under 10,000 pounds, if the company owns five or fewer vehicles
- Dealer-owned demonstrator vehicles or those previously used for test drives
Generally speaking, off-road vehicles and vehicles sold “as is” without a warranty usually don’t qualify. However, it won’t hurt to reach out to a lawyer for a free case review, no matter what kind of vehicle you have, as there are nuances to the law that might entitle you to relief.
What Kinds of Defects Qualify?
For a vehicle to be considered a lemon, the problem must be serious enough to impair its safety or value. Some common examples include:
- Repeated transmission or engine failures
- Defective brakes or steering systems
- Electrical malfunctions that affect starting or driving
- Airbag or seatbelt defects that pose safety risks
- Chronic issues with fuel systems or emissions
Minor cosmetic flaws or problems unrelated to safety or performance usually do not qualify.
The “Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts” Standard
The law doesn’t require a specific number of repair attempts that must be made before a vehicle can be considered a lemon, but it does give guidelines. Generally, a vehicle may be designated as a lemon if:
- The defect isn’t fixed after four or more attempts
- The defect could cause serious injury or death and hasn’t been fixed after two or more attempts
- The vehicle is out of service for repairs for 30 or more cumulative days during the warranty period
There’s also a presumption that a car is a lemon if these conditions occur within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles, whichever comes first.
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.
Contact a Lemon Law Attorney in California for Help With Your Case
If your car keeps breaking down despite repeated repair attempts, you may qualify for protection under California’s Lemon Law. At My Lemon Firm, we have years of experience helping clients recover compensation for their defective vehicles.
We encourage you to reach out to us for a free consultation, regardless of whether you are certain you have a case. We would be happy to let you know about your legal rights and options at that time. Contact us today to get started at (844) 40-Lemon.