California Lemon Law Attorney
Quick Answers: California Lemon Law in Plain English
- What it covers: Vehicles with warranty-covered defects that substantially impact use, value, or safety.
- What you can recover: Buyback/refund, replacement, and often reimbursement for related costs (depending on the facts).
- What you need to prove: A substantial defect + reasonable repair opportunities + strong documentation.
- Best next step: Save all repair orders and contact an attorney before signing anything from the manufacturer.
What Is the California Lemon Law?
California’s Lemon Law—formally known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act—is designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that turn out to be defective.
If a manufacturer or its authorized dealership cannot repair a warranty-covered defect after a reasonable number of attempts, the law may require the manufacturer to provide a remedy—typically a repurchase (buyback/refund) or a replacement vehicle.
The law applies to many new and used vehicles, including cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans, as long as the defect arose during the manufacturer’s warranty period.
Do You Qualify for a California Lemon Law Claim?
Not every vehicle problem qualifies as a Lemon Law case. To be eligible, the defect must be serious, recurring, and well-documented.
You may have a valid claim if:
- You purchased or leased the vehicle in California.
- The defect was reported while the vehicle was under a manufacturer’s warranty.
- The issue substantially affects the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.
- The manufacturer or dealership was given a reasonable number of repair attempts.
Common Lemon Law Defects
- Engine stalling, misfires, or repeated check-engine lights
- Transmission slipping, jerking, or complete failure
- Electrical or software system malfunctions
- Brake or steering defects
- Airbag or safety system failures
- Overheating or coolant system issues
- Recurring warning lights with no permanent fix
What Compensation Is Available Under California Lemon Law?
The compensation available depends on the specific facts of your case, including the defect, repair history, and purchase or lease terms. Possible remedies include:
Vehicle Buyback (Refund)
A buyback typically requires the manufacturer to repurchase the vehicle and reimburse certain amounts paid, such as the purchase price or lease payments, down payment, and registration fees. In some cases, a mileage offset may apply.
Replacement Vehicle
Some consumers choose a replacement vehicle of comparable value and features instead of a refund. Whether this option makes sense depends on availability and your personal goals.
Out-of-Pocket and Incidental Costs
With proper documentation, certain expenses—such as towing, rental cars, or alternative transportation—may be recoverable.
Why Choose ANTN Law for Your Lemon Law Case?
Lemon Law cases are documentation-driven and heavily defended by manufacturers. Success often depends on how well the repair history, warranty coverage, and defect timeline are presented.
- Experience: We understand how manufacturers evaluate and defend Lemon Law claims.
- Expertise: We build cases around repair records, defect patterns, and legal standards.
- Authority: Our approach is structured, evidence-based, and aligned with California law.
- Trust: We provide clear communication, realistic expectations, and ethical representation.
How the Lemon Law Process Works
- Free consultation: Review of your vehicle, warranty, and repair history.
- Document analysis: Collection and review of repair orders and dealership records.
- Claim strategy: Development of the strongest legal approach.
- Negotiation: Many cases resolve through structured manufacturer negotiations.
- Litigation if necessary: We pursue further legal action when fair resolution is denied.
California Lemon Law FAQs
Does Lemon Law apply to used cars?
Yes, in many cases—especially when the vehicle is still covered by a manufacturer’s warranty at the time the defect is reported.
How many repair attempts are required?
There is no single number. The answer depends on the defect, its safety impact, and the repair history.
What if the dealer says “no problem found”?
This is common. Repeated visits and documented complaints can still support a Lemon Law claim.
How long does a Lemon Law case take?
Some cases resolve in a few months, while others take longer depending on complexity and manufacturer response.
Speak With a California Lemon Law Attorney
If your vehicle keeps returning to the dealership for the same unresolved problems, you may have rights under California Lemon Law. ANTN Law can review your situation and explain your legal options.
Request a free consultation today.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case.