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You drive off the lot with your new car, proud of its flawless finish. But weeks or months later, you notice the paint beginning to chip, bubble, or peel. What looked perfect under the dealership lights is now showing signs of premature failure. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you may have rights under California’s Lemon Law. Paint problems may seem cosmetic, but they can quickly turn into structural and financial headaches when left unresolved.
Common Vehicle Paint Defects
Automakers have long advertised durable, factory-applied paint designed to last for years. But more and more owners report issues within the first few years of ownership. These include:
- Chipping or peeling along door edges, hoods, and roofs
- Bubbling and blistering caused by poor adhesion or thin coatings
- Premature fading from defective clear coat or pigment
- Rust formation where protective paint layers fail
Even when covered by a new vehicle warranty, manufacturers and dealers don’t always resolve these problems after repeated attempts.
Recent Defect Reports and Settlements
Several high-profile recalls, lawsuits, and technical service bulletins (TSBs) have highlighted ongoing issues:
- Toyota Blizzard Pearl/Super White repaint program (through 2022): Toyota offered panel repainting and reimbursement to owners of affected vehicles, but only for expenses incurred before key cutoff dates
- Ford Bronco paint bubbling reports: Owners have shared bubbling and corrosion experiences, in areas like rocker panels and doors, often during the first months of ownership. Many owners report warranty repairs.
- Mazda Soul Red Crystal chipping complaints: Owners frequently point to fragile, thinly applied paint that chips easily, even days after delivery
- Nissan Rogue/Infiniti peeling class action (pre-2022): A class-action settlement dealt with peeling paint issues. Owners continue to report similar problems on newer models.
- Chrysler Pacifica & Town & Country bubbling/rust: Many owners report bubbling paint and rust, sometimes even after warranty repaints, and some vehicles required repeated repair or replacement of panels.
These updates show that paint problems aren’t limited to older models. They remain a problem on vehicles sold today.
Why Paint Defects Matter
Some drivers assume paint is a cosmetic issue. In reality, defects can:
- Reduce your car’s resale value
- Expose the body to rust and structural damage
- Lead to ongoing repair costs that the manufacturer should bear
California’s Lemon Law applies when a defect substantially impairs a vehicle’s use, value, or safety, and recurring paint defects can meet this standard.
What to Do if Your Car Has Paint Problems
If you’ve spotted paint failure, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s a simple checklist to follow:
- Photograph the defects from multiple angles and in good lighting.
- Keep all records of dealer visits, repair attempts, and paint inspections.
- Review your warranty to confirm coverage for paint or corrosion.
- Request repairs through your dealer or manufacturer service center.
- Follow up in writing if repairs fail and keep copies of all communications.
- Send a formal demand letter if the issue continues after multiple attempts.
- Consult a Lemon Law attorney to evaluate whether your claim qualifies.
The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.
How The Lemon Firm Can Help
We will guide you through every step of the process. From reviewing your repair history to handling all communication with the manufacturer, our goal is to resolve your case as efficiently as possible. That resolution may include a refund, a replacement vehicle, or cash compensation. And you won’t pay us unless we win your case.
Don’t Let Paint Defects Lower Your Car’s Value
Paint defects are more than an eyesore; they can be a sign that your vehicle is worth far less than what you paid. If repeated repair attempts have failed or your warranty isn’t providing relief, California’s Lemon Law may entitle you to compensation.
Contact The Lemon Firm today for a free consultation. We have the experience and resources to stand up to automakers and get you the resolution you deserve.
FAQs About Paint Problems and the Lemon Law
Does California’s Lemon Law cover paint defects?
Yes. If the paint problem affects your car’s value or safety, and the dealer cannot fix it after a reasonable number of attempts, it may qualify under California’s Lemon Law.
Are paint problems considered a warranty issue?
Yes. Most new car warranties cover paint and corrosion for several years. If your dealer refuses to honor that, you may have a claim.
Can I file a Lemon Law claim if repainting was offered?
It depends. If repainting doesn’t solve the problem or the defect returns, you may still qualify for Lemon Law relief.
What should I do if the paint on my car keeps peeling?
Document the defects with photos, keep all service records, and request repairs through your dealer. If the issue continues, consult a Lemon Law attorney to explore a claim for compensation, refund, or replacement.