Lemon Law in California: How to Know if You Have a Lemon
At P&P Law in Los Angeles, we understand the frustration of purchasing a vehicle that doesn't live up to its promises. If your car is constantly in the shop for repairs, you may have a "lemon." Fortunately, California's Lemon Law is here to protect consumers like you. Here’s what you need to know about the Lemon Law and how to determine if your vehicle qualifies.
What is California’s Lemon Law?
California’s Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, is a consumer protection law that provides relief to buyers or lessees of vehicles with serious defects. This law requires manufacturers to either replace a defective vehicle or refund the purchase price if the vehicle cannot be repaired within a reasonable number of attempts.
Who is Protected?
The Lemon Law applies to:
What Are Your Options If You Have a Lemon?
If your vehicle meets the criteria for a lemon, you may be entitled to one of the following remedies:
- Replacement: The manufacturer may replace your vehicle with a new one that is substantially identical.
- Refund: The manufacturer may refund the purchase price, including taxes, registration fees, and other related costs, minus a deduction for the mileage you’ve driven.
How P&P Law Can Help
Navigating California’s Lemon Law can be complex, but the experienced attorneys at P&P Law in Los Angeles are here to help. We can assess your situation, guide you through the legal process, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact Us Today
If you believe you have a lemon, don’t wait. Contact P&P Law for a consultation and let us help you get back on the road with confidence.
Lemon Law FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 310-777-1801 today!
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Can I still file a Lemon Law claim if I bought my car from a private seller?
The California Lemon Law typically does not cover vehicles purchased from private sellers unless the original manufacturer’s warranty is still in effect. It’s important to check whether the warranty is transferable and still valid.
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Are leased vehicles covered under the California Lemon Law?
Yes, leased vehicles are covered as long as they are still under the manufacturer’s warranty and meet the other criteria of the Lemon Law.
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Does the California Lemon Law apply to used vehicles?
Yes, the California Lemon Law can apply to used vehicles, but the vehicle must still be under the manufacturer’s original warranty. If the used vehicle was sold “as is” or with a dealer’s limited warranty that has expired, it is not covered under the Lemon Law.
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What are my options if my vehicle is determined to be a lemon?
If your vehicle is determined to be a lemon, you are entitled to a replacement vehicle of the same make and model or a refund of your purchase price, including taxes, registration, and other associated fees. The manufacturer may deduct a usage fee based on the mileage driven before the first repair attempt.
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What should I do if I think my car is a lemon?
If you believe your vehicle is a lemon, you should first notify the manufacturer in writing and allow them an opportunity to make the necessary repairs. Keep detailed records of all repair attempts, including dates, descriptions of the problems, and any communications with the manufacturer or dealer. If the issue is not resolved after reasonable attempts, you may be eligible to file a claim under the Lemon Law.
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How many repair attempts are considered “reasonable”?
While the law does not specify an exact number, generally, if the vehicle has undergone at least two repair attempts for a serious safety defect (like brakes or steering) or at least four attempts for the same non-safety defect, it may qualify. Alternatively, if the vehicle has been out of service for repairs for 30 days or more (not necessarily consecutive), it may also be considered a lemon.
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What qualifies a vehicle as a “lemon” in California?
A vehicle is considered a lemon if it has a substantial defect that impairs its use, value, or safety and cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts by the manufacturer or authorized dealer. Typically, a vehicle must have undergone multiple repair attempts for the same issue or been out of service for an extended period (usually 30 days or more) due to repairs.
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Which vehicles are covered under the California Lemon Law?
The California Lemon Law covers new and used vehicles purchased or leased in California that are still under the manufacturer’s original warranty. This includes cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and certain motorcycles and motorhomes. The law also applies to leased vehicles and demonstrator or dealer-owned vehicles sold with a warranty.