Serving Those Who Serve
Lemon Law Protection for Military Personnel in California
At The Lemon Lawyer, we know military service comes with unique challenges. Dealing with a defective vehicle shouldn’t be one of them. If you’re an active-duty member of the Armed Forces living or stationed in California, you have special protections under California’s Lemon Law, even if your car, truck, or SUV was purchased or registered outside of the state.
Who Qualifies Under Military Lemon Law?
California recognizes the sacrifices made by service members and ensures that full-time, active-duty military personnel are covered by the state’s strong consumer protection laws. You may qualify for Lemon Law protection if you:
- Are a full-time, active-duty member of the United States Armed Forces (including Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force).
- Are stationed or residing in California at the time you purchased or leased your vehicle, or when you filed your claim, even if you bought or registered it in another state.
What Vehicles Are Covered?
Just like California residents, active-duty military personnel are protected when it comes to most types of vehicles, if they are still under the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty.
Covered vehicles include:
- Cars, pickup trucks, vans, and SUVs.
- The chassis, chassis cab, and drive train of most motor homes.
- Dealer-owned vehicles and demonstrators.
- Many vehicles acquired or leased primarily for business purposes (with some limitations).
Why Does This Matter?
Military life is unpredictable. You might be relocated at a moment’s notice, and your vehicle needs to be reliable, no matter where you bought it. California’s Military Lemon Law provision means you don’t have to worry about losing your consumer rights if your vehicle was purchased or registered outside the state, as long as you’re stationed or living in California.
Common Lemon Law Problems Covered
If your vehicle has ongoing issues that the dealer can’t seem to fix, you could be dealing with a lemon. Common problems include:
- Engine or transmission failures
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Safety feature defects (like airbags, seat belts, or brakes)
- Persistent warning lights
- Problems with steering or suspension
- Air conditioning or heating failures
How the Process Works for Military Members
- Identify a Defect: Your vehicle is experiencing a repeated issue or safety problem under warranty.
- Attempt Repairs: The dealer or manufacturer must be given a reasonable number of attempts to repair the issue.
- Gather Documentation: Keep all repair orders, receipts, and correspondence related to the defect.
- Contact The Lemon Lawyer: We’ll review your case, handle the legal process, and fight to get you a refund, replacement, or cash compensation.
Why Choose The Lemon Lawyer?
We have extensive experience with military clients and understand the unique situations military personnel face.
Additionally, we offer:
- No out-of-pocket costs: Manufacturers pay our fees if you win.
- Fast, free case review: Get answers quickly—so you can get back on the road and focus on your mission.
We work with clients from Bakersfield, Berkeley, Fresno, Long Beach, Los Angeles County, Oakland, Orange County, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego, San Jose, and the entire state of California.
Are You an Active-Duty Service Member Dealing with a Defective Vehicle?
Yes! If you’re an active-duty member of the military residing or stationed in California at the time of purchase or lease, you’re protected, even if your vehicle was purchased or registered outside of California.