Santa Cruz Lemon Law Attorney
- What is California’s Lemon Law?
- What types of vehicles are covered under California’s Lemon Law?
- Are used vehicles covered under California’s Lemon Law?
- What qualifies a vehicle as a “lemon” under California law?
- How many repair attempts are required before my vehicle is considered a lemon?
- What is the process for filing a Lemon Law claim in California?
- What remedies are available under California’s Lemon Law?
- Do I need an attorney to file a Lemon Law claim?
What is California’s Lemon Law?
California’s Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that are defective. If a vehicle has significant issues that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, the law requires the manufacturer to either replace the vehicle or provide a refund to the buyer. The vehicle must have been sold or leased with… [Read More]
What types of vehicles are covered under California’s Lemon Law?
California’s Lemon Law applies to new or leased vehicles, including dealer owned or demonstrator vehicles that are still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. This includes cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and in some cases, RVs.
Are used vehicles covered under California’s Lemon Law?
Used vehicles with a remaining balance on the manufacturer’s warranty are not considered “new motor vehicles” under the Lemon Law and do not qualify for the law’s “refund or replace” protections. However, used vehicles may still be protected by other legal frameworks, such as express warranties provided by the dealer under Civil Code Section 1795.5,… [Read More]
What qualifies a vehicle as a “lemon” under California law?
A vehicle is considered a “lemon” if it has a substantial defect that impairs its use, value, or safety and if the manufacturer or dealer cannot repair the defect after a reasonable number of attempts. The issue must have occurred within the warranty period, and typically, if the vehicle is in for repairs multiple times… [Read More]
How many repair attempts are required before my vehicle is considered a lemon?
Under California’s Lemon Law, the manufacturer must be given a reasonable number of attempts to repair the vehicle. Generally, this means: At least two attempts for safety-related defects that could cause injury or death. Four or more attempts for less serious defects. The vehicle is out of service for 30 or more cumulative days for… [Read More]
What is the process for filing a Lemon Law claim in California?
To file a Lemon Law claim, you should: Document everything: Keep detailed records of the vehicle’s purchase or lease, warranty, repair orders, and communication with the manufacturer or dealer. Provide the manufacturer with an opportunity to repair the defect. After April 1, 2025, consumers seeking civil penalties must provide written notice to the manufacturer, detailing… [Read More]
What remedies are available under California’s Lemon Law?
If your vehicle is determined to be a lemon, you are entitled to either a replacement vehicle or a refund of the purchase price. The refund will include the cost of the vehicle, taxes, registration fees, and any out-of-pocket expenses. The manufacturer may deduct a usage fee for the time you were able to use… [Read More]
Do I need an attorney to file a Lemon Law claim?
No, contact the manufacturer directly and request a buyback or that it replace your vehicle. If you choose to do this and the manufacturer refuses to buyback or replace your vehicle then contact us. We file lawsuits on a contingency fee basis so you don’t pay our fees and costs unless you win at trial… [Read More]