California lemon law lawsuit investigation

California lemon law: Who’s affected?

If you had to deal with persistent issues like a defective transmission, engine, electrical system, brakes, fuel pump, or other car problems while your car was under warranty, you may qualify for compensation under California lemon law. This could include getting your money back, damages of up to three times what you paid for the vehicle, a vehicle repurchase or buyback, and more. Fill out the form on this page to learn more.

A motor vehicle represents a substantial financial investment. Prior to finalizing the purchase, prudent buyers will dedicate time to contemplating their alternatives, reviewing third-party analyses and examining commonly reported owner satisfaction issues. Despite diligent evaluation, there is always a possibility that you may choose a vehicle containing latent defects that necessitate repeated repairs and trips to the mechanic.

Legal remedies do exist for consumers faced with such a situation. The California Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, more commonly known as the California lemon law, establishes rights for purchasers who, through no fault of their own, buy an automobile afflicted by mechanical or safety-related problems.

What is the lemon law? 

The California lemon law (California Civil Code Section 1793.2 et seq.) is designed to protect consumers and requires the manufacturer to repurchase or replace a defective vehicle if it cannot be repaired in a reasonable number of attempts. This law applies to the majority of new and some used vehicles purchased or leased in California. 

To qualify for reimbursement under the lemon law:

• Your vehicle must be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty (including used vehicles)
• The issue must substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value or safety
• The problems must have first occurred within 18 months or 18,000 miles of purchase
• The issues in question must not be the result of unauthorized modifications or unreasonable use after the sale 

As stipulated in the lemon law, automotive manufacturers have the right to attempt repair efforts, and the legislation delineates precise timelines and protocols for this process: 

• The owner is required to notify the manufacturer in many instances
• The vehicle must be repaired by the manufacturer or an approved agent
• The manufacturer has 4 attempts to repair the same problem
• If the issues pose a serious safety concern, the manufacturer has 2 attempts to resolve the issue

Your rights under California’s lemon law

Under the California lemon law, consumers may be eligible to receive significant compensation if they purchase a defective vehicle. Should your claim prove successful, you may receive a full refund of the purchase price of the vehicle in question. Additionally, reimbursable expenses can include licensing, registration, and repair costs incurred as a result of the defect. Attorney’s fees associated with pursuing a valid California lemon law claim are also recoverable under the statute.

Fill out the form on this page to see if you qualify for a free case evaluation.