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When we purchase or lease a new vehicle from a car dealership, we expect the engine to work. Unfortunately, some vehicles are defective or “lemons” and may need an engine replacement.
Under California’s Lemon Law, car dealerships are required to make repairs within a reasonable timeframe, including engine replacements, as well as other necessary repairs. If a car dealership is taking an unreasonable amount of time to replace the engine of your lemon vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation.
How Long Should Engine Replacements Take in California?
The time it takes for a dealership to replace an engine can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, the availability of parts, and the service department’s workload. On average, the process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the specific issue and the necessary repairs.
The first step for the dealership will be to diagnose the issue. The diagnostic process can take a day or two, especially if multiple tests are needed to confirm that the engine is the leading cause of the problem. When an engine replacement is necessary, the dealership will need to order a new engine, a process that can take anywhere from a couple of days to several weeks.
Once the new engine arrives, the installation process typically takes an additional few days to complete. This can vary based on the complexity of the engine model and the technicians’ skill levels. In total, the entire process from diagnosis to engine replacement can take anywhere from one week to over a month.
Pursuing a Lemon Law Claim for Unreasonable Repair Times
California’s Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that turn out to be “lemons” with significant defects, which significantly impact their use, value, or safety. If a dealership fails to make necessary repairs promptly, especially after multiple attempts, you might be eligible to file a claim under the Lemon Law.
As a consumer, you are entitled to a timely resolution of any significant defects. If your vehicle requires an engine replacement and the dealership fails to complete an engine replacement within a reasonable time frame, you may have grounds to pursue a claim. Specifically, suppose your vehicle is under warranty and the repair process has taken over a month. In that case, you may be eligible for a buyback of your car from the dealership or a replacement vehicle.
Am I Eligible to File a Lemon Law Claim?
Winning your Lemon Law claim will require you to show that the repair time for the engine replacement has been unreasonably long. The key factor here is what constitutes “reasonable,” which depends on the nature of the repairs needed and the communication from the dealership regarding timelines. For example, if the dealership has kept your vehicle for over 30 days without providing adequate updates or making satisfactory progress, you likely have a valid claim.
It is essential to document all communication and interactions with the dealership. Doing so will help you win your Lemon Law claim. Keep records of repair invoices, communications, and write a detailed timeline of events. You’ll also benefit from contacting an attorney who can help you negotiate with the dealership and pursue a successful outcome. Taking proactive steps to assert your rights can help you increase the likelihood of success with your Lemon Law claim.
Contact a Lemon Law Attorney in California
If the car dealership is taking an unreasonably long time to replace the engine of a defective vehicle, you may have a valid legal claim for compensation. Don’t suffer in silence—if your vehicle is giving you a headache, act quickly to ensure your rights are protected.
Call 833-Lemon-Firm and speak with a case analyst today!