Los Angeles is a city built for driving. Unlike compact, public transit-friendly cities where you can hop on a train or bus at every corner, L.A. is a sprawling metropolis where a car is not just a convenience but a necessity.
Your vehicle is your lifeline. It’s what gets you to work, to school, to the beach, and to every late-night taco stand you crave. Many people use a good chunk of their savings and rainy day funds to buy what they think is a great vehicle, or even a decent one, only to discover that they have been sold a lemon.
If this has happened to you, you don’t have to fret just yet. California lemon laws can help you out. However, you would need to hire the best lemon lawyers in Los Angeles to guide you.
What is Lemon Law in California?
California’s lemon law, also known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, is designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles. The law applies to both new and used cars, as long as the vehicle is still under warranty.
To qualify under California’s lemon law, your car must meet the following criteria:
- The defect must have started within 18 months or 18,000 miles of taking possession of the vehicle.
- The problem must be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
- The dealership must have been unable to fix the issue after a reasonable number of attempts.
- The issue must substantially impair the use, safety, or value of the vehicle.
California’s lemon law doesn’t just apply to traditional passenger vehicles. It also covers motorcycles, motor homes, and some types of commercial vehicles. If your car meets the criteria, you have legal grounds to file a claim.
Lemon Law Coverage and Warranties
Most new cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which provides some level of protection. Under California’s lemon law, if your vehicle is under warranty and experiences recurring issues, the manufacturer is required to fix it. But if the dealer can’t resolve the problem after a reasonable number of attempts, you have the right to seek compensation.
A “reasonable” number of attempts varies depending on the issue. If the defect is a major safety concern such as faulty brakes or an airbag that doesn’t deploy, then the dealer has only two chances to fix it. For less severe problems, they usually get four repair attempts before lemon law protections kick in.
Also, if your car has been in the shop for more than 30 cumulative days for the same defect, it may also qualify as a lemon.
Under the law, you may be entitled to one of the following remedies:
- A full refund of the purchase price (minus a small deduction for mileage used before the defect appeared)
- A replacement vehicle of the same make and model
- Compensation for out-of-pocket expenses, like rental cars and towing fees
How to Start a Lemon Law Claim
If you think your car is a lemon, here’s what you need to do:
Confirm That Your Car Qualifies
Gather every document related to your vehicle such as purchase agreements, warranty paperwork, and all repair invoices. The more documentation you have, the better your chances of proving your case.
Research California’s Lemon Laws
Every state has different lemon laws, so make sure you understand California’s specific requirements. The state’s lemon law is one of the most consumer-friendly in the country, but you still need to follow the proper procedures.
Notify the Manufacturer
Before filing a claim, you must formally notify the manufacturer in writing. This should include:
- Your contact information
- The vehicle’s make, model, and VIN number
- Purchase details (date, dealership, etc.)
- A description of the defect and repair attempts
- A list of all repair visits, including dates and service details
Consult a Lemon Law Attorney
Filing a claim can be complicated, and manufacturers may try to deny your request. Hiring a lemon law attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure you receive full compensation.