If you’ve ever dealt with repeat repairs or frustrating defects in your vehicle, you may have wondered whether California’s Lemon Law can help. The good news: robust protection is available for consumers in our state, though not every vehicle is covered the same way.
Here’s what you need to know about which vehicles qualify—and how broad that coverage really is.
Coverage for New and Used Vehicles
California’s Lemon Law doesn’t just apply to brand new cars. It also protects certain used vehicles, assuming they’re still under the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. This means you’re not out of luck just because your car isn’t fresh off the lot.
What Vehicles Are Covered by California Lemon Law?
The law extends to a variety of vehicle types, provided they’re sold or leased with the original factory warranty:
- Passenger vehicles: This includes sedans, pickup trucks, vans, and SUVs.
- Motor homes: The Lemon Law covers the chassis, chassis cab, and drive train of most motor homes (though not the living quarters).
- Dealer-owned and demonstrator vehicles: Even if a vehicle was used as a demo model or was owned by the dealership, you may still be protected.
- Certain business vehicles: If your company purchased or leased a vehicle primarily for business purposes (and your business has five or fewer vehicles registered in California), the Lemon Law may apply.
What About Different Manufacturers?
No auto manufacturer is perfect. Defects can crop up in vehicles of any model or maker. While some manufacturers tend to have more frequent or widely reported issues, no company is immune to producing the occasional lemon.
Here at The Lemon Lawyer, we’ve worked with vehicles from a wide range of manufacturers, including:
Whether your vehicle has an infamous track record or remains a brand with a strong reputation, the Lemon Law can still offer you protection if your car meets the criteria.
When Is a Vehicle Not Covered?
Keep in mind, California Lemon Law does not cover:
- Vehicles purchased or leased outside California.
- Off-road vehicles (like ATVs).
- Vehicles sold “as is” without any warranty.
Also, for used vehicles, coverage only applies if the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty is still active.
What to Do If You Think You Have a Lemon
If you’re dealing with repeated repairs or safety issues and think your vehicle qualifies, it’s important to act quickly. Document all repairs, keep your service records, and reach out to a qualified lemon law attorney for a free case evaluation.
Don’t face the frustration alone. The Lemon Lawyer team is here to help guide you through the process and fight for your rights. Reach out to us today to learn more.