What Does the California Lemon Law Cover?
The California Lemon Law protects consumers when their vehicle is defective and cannot be fixed after a "reasonable" number of attempts. The law covers:
- Most new vehicles under a manufacturer's warranty.
- Used vehicles still under a manufacturer's warranty (any remaining warranty time protects the new owner.)
When Does Your Vehicle Qualify as a Lemon?
If a vehicle has a problem covered by the warranty, affecting its use, value, or safety, and it persists after a "reasonable" number of repair attempts, the manufacturer may need to buy back or replace the vehicle.
The definition of a "reasonable" number of attempts depends on factors, but there's a presumption that the vehicle is a lemon if certain conditions are met, such as repeated unsuccessful repairs within a specified time or mileage.
But don’t worry, we will assess all of this for you to ensure you have a strong case.
Your Rights and Options
If a vehicle qualifies as a lemon, the manufacturer must promptly repurchase or replace it.
- Consumers have the right to choose a refund instead of a replacement.
- Lemon vehicles bought back by dealers and resold must be labeled as a "lemon law buyback," and they should have a "lemon" sticker.
- If proper disclosure is not made when selling such vehicles "as is," buyers may still have rights under the Lemon Law.
- Please contact us for more details.
Special Protection for Armed Forces Members
Full-time active-duty members of the Armed Forces stationed or residing in California at the time of purchase or lease are protected by the Lemon Law even if their vehicles were purchased or registered outside of California.
Our Commitment: No Cost to You
Our services always come at no cost to the consumer, even the case evaluation. There are no hidden fees; all expenses are directly covered by the manufacturer.
California Lemon Law Action Plan
If you think you have a lemon in California, take these steps to protect yourself.
Cease Dealer or Manufacturer Communication
Pease contact me and discontinue all communication with the dealer or manufacturer.
Service Suspension
Refrain from scheduling any service for your vehicle, including routine maintenance such as an oil change.
Thorough Documentation
Gather all pertinent documents, including warranty details, repair orders, inspection reports, and repair attempts.
Demand Letter Initiation
Resolution Options
Refund Entitlement
If you qualify for a refund for your defective vehicle, your refund encompasses, but is not limited to:
For Leased Vehicles
If your vehicle is leased, you may receive a full refund for leasing fees, and any remaining lease payments will be settled in full. The California Lemon Law specifies that your lease agreement concludes upon returning the defective vehicle, and you cannot incur penalty fees for early lease termination.
Replacement Option
Under the lemon law, the manufacturer might propose to replace or "buy back" your vehicle. You have the choice to decline the offer and opt for a refund instead. If you opt for a replacement, it must: