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When you buy a new car, you expect it to work, but what happens when it doesn’t? If your vehicle spends more time at the repair shop than on the road, California’s lemon law may offer a solution. This law gives you the right to a refund or replacement when a car has serious, ongoing problems.
But it didn’t appear overnight. Like many consumer protections, California’s lemon law was shaped over time by people who demanded fair treatment. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at how it all began, how it’s evolved, and why it still protects drivers across the state today.
Where It All Started: Protecting Car Buyers in the 1970s
California’s lemon law began in response to growing concerns in the 1970s. Across the country, consumers were pushing for better protection against faulty products, and defective vehicles were high on the list.
In 1970, California passed the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act. This law required manufacturers to stand behind their products and fix serious issues under warranty. It applied to all kinds of consumer goods—including cars—but didn’t yet have the clear guidelines we see today.
At first, it wasn’t always easy for people to get relief. Manufacturers often had the upper hand, and the process lacked clarity. Still, the Song-Beverly Act laid the foundation for what would become one of the strongest consumer auto laws in the country.
Strengthening the Law: Major Changes in the 1980s and 1990s
By the 1980s, it was clear the original law needed more teeth. That led to key changes in 1982, when lawmakers added clearer standards for what made a vehicle a “lemon.”
Under the new rules, if your car had a serious issue that couldn’t be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts, or if it spent too many days in the shop, you could demand a refund or a replacement. That shifted power away from auto companies and toward consumers.
Over the next decade, courts and lawmakers continued to refine the law:
- Time limits were clarified for bringing a lemon law claim.
- Leased vehicles were added to the list of covered products.
- The law began to include stronger language around manufacturer obligations.
These updates helped balance the scales and gave drivers a better shot at holding automakers accountable.
What the Law Looks Like Today: Key Protections for Drivers
California’s Lemon Law continues to offer robust protections for consumers, especially those purchasing new vehicles. However, recent developments have introduced notable changes:
- Assembly Bill 1755 (AB 1755), effective April 1, 2025, mandates that consumers engage in mandatory mediation with the vehicle manufacturer before initiating a lawsuit. This step aims to resolve disputes more efficiently and reduce court congestion. Additionally, consumers must provide a written notice to the manufacturer at least 30 days prior to filing a lawsuit seeking civil penalties.
- The Rodriguez v. FCA US, LLC decision clarified that used vehicles with an unexpired balance of the original manufacturer’s warranty do not qualify as “new motor vehicles” under the Lemon Law. Consequently, the “refund or replace” remedy does not apply to such used vehicles unless they are sold with a new car warranty, such as a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranty.
To qualify as a lemon under the current law:
- The vehicle must have a defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety.
- The issue persists after a reasonable number of repair attempts.
- Or, the vehicle is out of service for an extended period, typically 30 days or more.
If these conditions are met, the manufacturer is obligated to either replace the vehicle or refund the purchase price. Additionally, if you prevail in your case, the manufacturer may be required to cover your legal fees.
Why the History of the Law Matters for Your Case
Understanding the history of California’s lemon law shows us one thing: this law exists because people like you stood up for their rights. Recent changes, like mandatory mediation and limits on used car buyback claims, show that the law continues to evolve. Still, the foundation remains strong: if you buy a defective new vehicle, you have a legal path toward relief.
Over the years, lawmakers have strengthened protections in response to public demand. Automakers may have resources and legal teams, but California drivers have a long tradition of fighting back.
If you’re stuck with a defective car, you’re not alone, and you’re not powerless. The Lemon Firm can help you move forward without getting stuck with a lemon.
Contact Our Experienced California Lemon Law Attorneys
At The Lemon Firm, we’ve helped California drivers get the justice they deserve under the lemon law. We understand how frustrating it is to feel like no one’s listening, especially when your car is still under warranty. Our team works directly with consumers to hold manufacturers accountable. We know the law, and we’re ready to fight for you.
If you think you’ve bought a lemon, reach out to us today for a free consultation. We’ll help you get back on the road with confidence.