Are you having trouble with your new car? Have you brought it back to the
dealership on several occasions, only for the problem not to be corrected?
If your answer is “yes,” then you may have legal recourse
thanks to California’s
“Lemon Law.” In order to familiarize yourself with the Lemon Law and how it may help
you, we encourage you to read our list of frequently asked questions provided below.
What vehicles does California’s Lemon Law apply to?
Under California’s Lemon Law, the following vehicles are covered:
cars, trucks (pickups), SUVs, and vans.
Does the Lemon Law only apply to purchased vehicles?
No, California’s Lemon Law also applies to vehicles that are leased
for personal or family purposes, as well as many vehicles that are leased
for business use. So, the Lemon Law generally
applies to purchased
and leased vehicles.
What will happen if my vehicle cannot be fixed?
Suppose you took your vehicle to the dealer on several occasions and no
matter what they did, the problem continued. If the dealer or manufacturer
are unable to fix a warranty defect after making a “reasonable number
of attempts,” then they manufacturer will be required to replace
your vehicle, or refund the purchase price – it’s up to you.
What counts as a reasonable number of attempts?
While there isn’t a set number of repair attempts, California’s
Lemon Law Presumption does have guidelines to determine a “reasonable”
number of attempts, which says the dealer or manufacturer have not been
able to fix the problem after
four or more attempts.
However, if the problem could cause
serious bodily injury or
death if the vehicle is driven, then it’s just
two attempts. Lastly, if your vehicle has been in the shop for 30 or more days (doesn’t
have to be in a row) to repair the warranty defect, then it would be covered
under California’s Lemon Law Presumption.
I bought a used vehicle without a warranty, am I protected by the Lemon Law?
Unfortunately, you would not be protected by California’s Lemon Law.
The Lemon Law only applies to new vehicles with a manufacturer’s warranty.
Why Norman Taylor & Associates?
At Norman Taylor & Associates, Attorney Taylor
wrote the book,
Lemon Law – The Standard Reference Guide. His book explains your rights under the California Song-Beverly Consumer
Warranty Act, and offers comprehensive advice on resolving problems with
defective vehicles. If you have a problematic vehicle, we are the firm
to trust with your Lemon Law case!
Looking for a California Lemon Law Attorney? Call today to schedule your free consultation.