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California’s lemon law protects consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles that turn out to be “lemons.” If you’ve purchased or leased a defective General Motors (GM) vehicle, GM may be required to buy back your vehicle or give you another similar vehicle of equal vehicle. Understanding the requirements of GM’s buyback program can help you protect your rights as a consumer.
What Is GM’s Buyback Program?
California’s lemon law allows consumers to pursue a buyback of a defective vehicle from manufacturers, including General Motors. When a vehicle has significant defects that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, the purchaser is entitled to a full refund of the purchase price of the vehicle. Successful claimants are also entitled to reimbursement of taxes and fees or a replacement vehicle of equal value.
GM’s buyback program ensures that consumers who buy defective “lemon” vehicles are not left with defective vehicles. The lemon law provides significant protection for consumers who’ve purchased lemons. The law applies to a range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles, ensuring that consumers are not stuck with a defective vehicle.
Do I Have a Valid Claim Under GM’s Vehicle Buyback Program?
To qualify for GM’s buyback program, the following criteria must typically be met:
- Defect Under Warranty: The defect must be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Problems that result from misuse, accidents, or unauthorized modifications generally do not qualify.
- Substantial Impairment: The defect must substantially impair the vehicle’s use, safety, or value. This can include issues affecting the engine, brakes, steering, or other crucial systems.
- Reasonable Repair Attempts: Consumers must allow the manufacturer or authorized dealer a reasonable number of attempts to repair the defect. Generally, making a reasonable repair attempt requires making two attempts for a serious safety defect and at least four attempts for other non-conformities. Additionally, a claim can be justified if the vehicle is out of service for more than 30 days due to repairs.
How to Start a Buyback Claim with GM
If you believe your GM vehicle qualifies for a buyback under California’s Lemon Law, here are the steps you’ll need to follow:
- Document the Problems: Keep a detailed record of all the defects, repair attempts, and communications with the dealership or manufacturer. This will serve as critical evidence if you pursue a buyback claim.
- Notify GM: Contact GM directly to report the ongoing issues. This can sometimes be done through their customer service hotline.
- Repair Attempts: Have the vehicle examined and repaired by an authorized GM dealer.
- Contact an Attorney: If the problem persists despite multiple repair attempts, it may be time to consult with a lemon law attorney.
What to Expect From the GM Buyback Process
If your vehicle qualifies for a buyback, the next steps involve working with GM to negotiate the terms. GM’s buyback process will include:
- Assessment of Your Vehicle’s Value: GM will determine the buyback amount based on the vehicle’s purchase price minus a reasonable depreciation for the time it was operable.
- Documentation Requirements: Be prepared to provide all documentation regarding the vehicle’s repairs, warranty status, and any other pertinent information.
- Resolution Timeline: The process can vary in length, but GM should aim to complete your claim as quickly as possible once all necessary documents are provided.
California law dictates that consumers have the right to receive a full refund of their purchase price, taxes, registration fees, and other related costs. You may also opt for a replacement vehicle of equal value instead of a cash refund. An attorney can help you pursue additional expenses related to the defect, including rental car fees and legal fees if they successfully win their case.
Contact a Skilled Lemon Law Attorney in California
If you own a GM vehicle that consistently experiences mechanical or safety-related problems, you may qualify for GM’s buyback program. Contact the skilled lemon law attorneys at California Consumer Attorneys, P.C. today. You can call 833-Lemon-Firm anytime to speak with a case analyst and learn more about your rights.