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When purchasing a new vehicle, consumers expect a smooth transaction that will end in them driving their new car off the lot. Unfortunately, some new vehicles are defective “lemons” due to defects or safety issues. When vehicles are stuck at the dealership for repairs, consumers can be seriously inconvenienced and may need to pay for rental vehicles or rideshare services. Understanding California’s lemon law can help you enforce your legal rights as a consumer.
In California, consumer protection laws, including our Lemon Law, are designed to ensure that buyers are treated fairly, particularly when it comes to purchasing vehicles. If you’re having issues with a car purchased from a dealership—whether it’s a mechanical problem, paperwork discrepancy, or other related issues—it’s crucial to know how long the dealership can legally hold your car during repairs or investigations.
The Timeline for a Vehicle Repair Must Be Reasonable
Dealerships are expected to perform repairs in a timely manner. If you bring your car in for service, the dealership should provide an estimate of how long the repairs will take. California’s laws do not specify a strict timeframe for a dealership to complete repairs. However, what’s considered a “reasonable time” can be subjective.
A common rule of thumb is that repairs should be completed within 30 days. In many cases, a car dealership can only hold your car for repairs for a maximum of 30 cumulative days across all repair attempts. If the dealership exceeds this timeframe without good reason, it may be in violation of California’s auto repair laws. Under the California Automotive Repair Act, if a repair takes longer than agreed upon, the consumer has legal rights, including obtaining a refund or seeking assistance from a consumer rights attorney.
How Long Can a Dealership Hold My Car for Repairs If It Is a Lemon?
If you purchased or leased a vehicle from a dealership, and the vehicle has ongoing issues that make it unreliable or unfit for use, California’s Lemon Law may come into play. Under this law, when a manufacturer or dealership fails to fix a substantial defect after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund.
Under California’s Lemon Law, you may have a legitimate claim if your car has been in the shop for repairs more than 30 days due to the same issue. The key here is documenting all repairs, including dates and the nature of the problems. If your dealership is holding your car due to ongoing issues, and it’s been more than 30 days, it’s advisable to consult with a consumer rights attorney who specializes in Lemon Law cases.
How to Pursue a Lemon Law Claim
Keeping thorough documentation is crucial whether you’re dealing with an ordinary repair or a Lemon Law situation. You’ll benefit from keeping receipts for any repairs or services performed, written estimates or agreements outlining repair timelines, and communication records with the dealership.
If you believe your car is being held longer than necessary, you should communicate with the dealership and take notes about their repair estimates. Write down the names of people you speak with and keep detailed records. If the dealership will not complete the repair in a reasonable time, you can send a formal letter outlining your concerns.
Contact a Lemon Law Attorney in California
If the dealership continues to hold your car without explanation or resolution, consider reaching out to a consumer rights attorney. An attorney can provide legal guidance, help you understand your rights in-depth, and assist you in resolving the issue through negotiation or legal action.
For more assistance with your automotive issues and to better understand your rights, don’t hesitate to contact California Consumer Attorneys, P.C. Call 833-Lemon-Firm and speak with a case analyst today!