Category: Lemon Law

Buying a new or certified pre-owned car should feel like a step forward. But when you’re constantly returning to the dealership for the same problem, frustration can quickly take over. If your vehicle is under warranty and keeps breaking down, you may have a lemon law claim. 

One of the first questions we often hear is, “How long will this take?” In this post, we’ll break down the typical lemon law timeline in California, what can affect the pace of your case, and how we work to resolve your claim as efficiently as possible.

Understanding the Basics Before the Clock Starts

The lemon law process doesn’t begin the moment your vehicle shows signs of trouble. California law gives the manufacturer or its dealership a fair opportunity to fix the issue before a claim can move forward.

Here’s what typically qualifies you to start a lemon law claim:

• You’ve taken the car in for repairs multiple times for the same problem, especially one that affects use, safety, or value
• The vehicle has been in the shop for more than 30 cumulative days for warranty repairs
• The problems happened while the vehicle was under the original manufacturer’s warranty

Generally, a “reasonable number” of repair attempts means:

• At least 2 attempts for serious safety issues like brakes or airbags
• At least 4 attempts for other recurring problems

Once this threshold is met, you may be eligible to pursue compensation under California’s lemon law.

What Affects the Lemon Law Timeline?

The time it takes to resolve a lemon law claim varies from case to case. While some claims are wrapped up in a few weeks, others take several months, especially if the manufacturer contests the claim.

Some factors that influence the length of the process include:

• How quickly you can provide all necessary documents, like repair invoices, warranty info, and your purchase or lease agreement
• Whether the manufacturer is cooperative or pushes back against your claim
• Whether your case can be settled quickly or requires arbitration or a lawsuit

Your case may move faster if you have clear documentation and the manufacturer agrees to resolve the issue without a fight. Still, our job is to keep things on track no matter how complicated your situation may be.

Step-by-Step: How the Process Usually Unfolds

1. Case Evaluation and Demand Letter (1–2 weeks)

Once you contact us, we’ll start by reviewing your repair history and warranty. If your vehicle meets the lemon law criteria, we’ll prepare a demand letter. This letter notifies the manufacturer of your claim and sets out what you’re asking for: a refund, a replacement vehicle, or a cash settlement.

2. Manufacturer’s Response (2–4 weeks)

After receiving the demand letter, the manufacturer may:

• Agree to a buyback or replacement
• Request more information or documentation
• Deny the claim and argue the problem isn’t significant enough

We handle this communication and keep you updated along the way.

3. Settlement Negotiations (2–8 weeks)

Many lemon law claims settle during this phase. We’ll go back and forth with the manufacturer to reach an agreement that works for you. The amount of time this takes depends on how willing the other side is to resolve things.

We aim to reach a fair resolution without dragging things out longer than necessary. Most cases do not require a court filing, but if they do, we’re fully prepared.

4. Arbitration or Court (if needed) (3–6+ months)

If a settlement isn’t possible, we may proceed to arbitration or file a lawsuit. This part of the process can add several months to the timeline, depending on court availability and how hard the manufacturer fights the claim. Even if your case ends up in court, it may still settle before trial.

Tips for Keeping Your Case Moving

There are a few simple ways you can help speed up your lemon law claim:

• Keep all repair records and receipts in one place
• Respond quickly to requests for documents or details
• Stop driving the car if it’s unsafe or worsening the issue

The sooner we have everything we need, the sooner we can get to work.

We Help You Get Results Without the Wait

You’ve already spent enough time dealing with a faulty vehicle. Our team at The Lemon Firm is here to help you move forward without unnecessary delays. We work hard to resolve lemon law claims as efficiently as possible while still making sure you get the outcome you deserve. 

If you think your car qualifies as a lemon, don’t wait. Contact us today to start the process. The sooner we begin, the closer you are to a solution.

If you’re stuck with a faulty vehicle, the last thing you want is to spend your free time in court. One of the most common questions we hear is, “Do I have to go to court for a lemon law case?” The short answer is: probably not. California’s lemon law is one of the strongest in the country, and in many situations, you can get a refund, replacement, or cash settlement without ever stepping into a courtroom.

What California’s Lemon Law Can Do for You

California’s lemon law, known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, protects drivers who buy or lease vehicles that don’t work the way they should. If your car has a warranty and keeps breaking down, even after multiple repair attempts, you might have a lemon law claim.

You may be entitled to:

• A refund of your down payment, monthly payments, and registration fees
• A replacement vehicle
• Reimbursement for repair costs, towing, or rental car expenses

These rights apply to both new and used vehicles that are still under warranty. The law puts the pressure on the manufacturer, not you.

When Court Isn’t Necessary

Most lemon law claims in California are resolved without ever going to trial. In fact, many never require filing a lawsuit at all. That’s because once we put the manufacturer on notice and provide the right documentation, they often agree to settle fairly.

Here’s how it often goes:

• We handle all communication with the manufacturer.
• We gather your repair records and confirm that your vehicle meets lemon law standards.
• We negotiate directly with the automaker for a refund, replacement, or fair cash offer.

Some manufacturers may offer arbitration, which is like a private version of court. Starting in 2025, California also added a new step for lemon law cases: mandatory mediation. If your claim hasn’t been resolved after you give the required 30-day notice, both sides must meet with a neutral third party to try to settle. Mediation usually takes place within a few months of filing and gives you a chance to resolve things without the time and stress of going to trial. Many cases are settled during this step.

When a Lawsuit Might Be the Best Option

There are times when the manufacturer refuses to take responsibility or lowballs their offer. When that happens, filing a lawsuit might be the best way to protect your rights. But even then, going to court doesn’t always mean a lengthy trial.

Here’s what often happens:

• We file the lawsuit in California civil court.
• The manufacturer takes the claim more seriously and returns to the table.
• Many lawsuits are resolved through settlement talks before a judge ever hears the case.

If your case does need to move forward, we’ll make sure you’re prepared. 

What to Expect if Your Case Does Go to Court

Lemon law cases that end up in court usually involve more time, but that doesn’t mean more stress for you. We’ll handle the legal side while keeping you informed at every step.

If your case reaches court:

• You may be asked to give a short statement or appear at a hearing.
• We will manage all filings and responses.
• We handle any conversations with the opposing side.
• You remain in control. We’ll never agree to a settlement without your approval.

Also, under California law, the manufacturer may be responsible for covering your attorney’s fees if you win. That means we don’t get paid unless you do.

How We Can Help You Avoid Court

The key to avoiding court is building a strong case right from the start. At The Lemon Firm, we know how to do that. Our team has helped hundreds of California drivers get their money back or get into a better vehicle, often without setting foot in a courtroom.

We approach each case with the goal of reaching a fair outcome as quickly as possible. We know what automakers are looking for, and we show them that we’re ready to take legal action if necessary. With years of experience standing up to major manufacturers, our team brings confidence and persistence to every claim.

Get Started on Your Lemon Law Claim

Worried about going to court? You’re not alone. But with the right legal team, most lemon law cases are resolved before a lawsuit is even filed. We’ll review your situation at no cost and walk you through your options. Contact The Lemon Firm today to get started.

You’ve taken your car to the dealership more times than you can count. It’s the same issue every time, and despite repeated visits to the service department, your vehicle still isn’t working the way it should. If this sounds familiar, you’re probably asking yourself a frustrating question: What now?

California’s lemon law gives you strong protection when your car can’t be fixed under warranty. If the problem continues, even after multiple repair attempts, you may be entitled to much more than just another appointment at the shop.

When Is a Vehicle Considered a Lemon in California?

Not every vehicle problem makes a car a “lemon,” but under the California lemon law, some clear conditions apply. Your vehicle may qualify if:

• It has a defect that affects its use, value, or safety
• The problem started while the vehicle was under the original warranty
• The dealer or manufacturer has tried to fix the issue multiple times without success
• It’s been in the shop for repairs for more than 30 total days

If these conditions apply, it may be time to look beyond the repair shop and start considering your legal rights.

What to Do If the Problem Isn’t Fixed

When the same issue keeps coming back, documentation is essential. If you’re still dealing with the problem after a few repair attempts, here’s what to do:

• Save all service invoices and repair orders
• Make sure each visit notes the specific complaint and work performed
• Get written statements if the technician says they “can’t duplicate” the issue
• Contact the manufacturer if the dealership doesn’t offer further help

Don’t wait too long or assume the dealer will keep trying to make it right. If your warranty is close to expiring, your window for legal relief may be closing.

Your Legal Options Under the California Lemon Law

If your vehicle meets the lemon law criteria, you may be entitled to more than just another repair. The law gives you the right to request:

• A refund, which includes your down payment, monthly payments, taxes, and registration fees, minus a small deduction for mileage
• A replacement vehicle of comparable value and model
• Reimbursement for related expenses, like rental cars, towing costs, and even out-of-pocket repairs

You don’t have to accept a vehicle that doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to. The law is designed to hold manufacturers accountable when they’ve had a fair chance to fix the problem and failed.

What If the Manufacturer Pushes Back?

Even when you qualify, some manufacturers don’t make the process easy. They might claim the defect isn’t that serious or try to blame you for the issue. Others may offer a low settlement or drag out the process to wear you down.

That’s when legal support becomes valuable. You’re not required to take a bad deal just because the other side says so. With the right legal team, you can push back and demand what you’re entitled to under the law.

How We Can Help You Take the Next Step

At The Lemon Firm, we know how frustrating it is to deal with a car that won’t cooperate and a company that won’t take responsibility. If you’ve had enough, we’re ready to step in.

We’ll review your paperwork, walk you through your options, and deal with the manufacturer so you don’t have to. In most cases, you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket because the law requires the manufacturer to cover your legal fees.

Our team has helped hundreds of California drivers stand up for their rights under the lemon law. If they can’t fix your vehicle, you shouldn’t be stuck with it.

Don’t Settle for a Broken Car

You bought your car to get you where you need to go, not to spend your time sitting at the service department. If the problem keeps coming back and the dealer can’t or won’t fix it, we can help you move forward. Reach out to The Lemon Firm to find out if your vehicle qualifies as a lemon. We’re here to help you get the refund or replacement you deserve.

When you buy a new car, you expect it to run safely and reliably. But what happens when the same problem keeps coming back, even after multiple trips to the dealership? If your vehicle spends more time in the shop than on the road, California’s lemon law may apply. One of the most common questions we hear is: How many repair attempts are “enough” before my car qualifies as a lemon?

Understanding the “Reasonable Number” Standard 

The California lemon law doesn’t give a strict number of repair attempts that automatically qualifies your car as a lemon. Instead, it uses the term “reasonable,” and that leaves some room for interpretation.

What counts as “reasonable” depends on several things:

• How dangerous the defect is
• How many times the dealership has tried to fix it
• How long your car has been out of service

For example, a serious brake problem might require fewer attempts than a malfunctioning radio. The law is designed to protect consumers from ongoing repair issues, but not every inconvenience will rise to the level of a lemon. That’s why documenting each repair visit matters—it shows the effort you’ve made to get the issue fixed.

General Guidelines from the California Lemon Law 

While there’s no hard number written into the law, California does offer a set of guidelines that help determine when a car may be presumed to be a lemon. These are laid out in the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act and typically include:

• 2 or more repair attempts for a serious safety issue that could cause injury or death
• 4 or more repair attempts for a non-safety issue that still affects the use, value, or safety of the vehicle
• 30 or more total days out of service for any warranty-covered repair issue, whether those days are consecutive or not

If your situation meets any of these guidelines during the first 18 months or 18,000 miles of ownership, the burden shifts to the manufacturer to prove the car is not a lemon. But even if you’re outside those limits, you may still have a case—it just takes a little more documentation and legal support.

Factors That May Influence What’s “Reasonable” 

The number of attempts is just one piece of the puzzle. When we evaluate a case, we also look at:

• The severity of the issue – A faulty airbag or brake failure may need only one or two attempts to qualify.
• Whether the issue puts you or your family at risk – Safety problems are taken more seriously.
• Whether the dealer truly attempted repairs – A visit with no work done doesn’t count the same as a full service.
• Total days the vehicle was unavailable – Even small problems become significant when they keep your car in the shop for weeks.

Manufacturers can push back, claiming that the problem is fixed or that it doesn’t affect the car enough to qualify. That’s why your service history, repair orders, and written complaints can make or break your claim.

What You Can Do if You Think You’ve Reached the Limit 

If you’ve had the same problem repaired multiple times, or your car has been in the shop for weeks, it’s time to take the next step. Here’s what we recommend:

• Keep all your repair orders and receipts
• Take photos or videos of the issue when possible
• Write down the names of the service advisors you spoke with
• Track the total days your car has been out of service

Once you gather this information, reach out to a lemon law attorney who can review your case. You may be entitled to a refund, a replacement vehicle, or a cash settlement, and the manufacturer usually has to cover your legal fees.

Contact Our Experienced California Lemon Law Attorneys

At The Lemon Firm, we deal with automakers every day on behalf of drivers like you. If you think your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, we’ll take the time to review your documents and explain your options. You won’t pay us anything unless we win your case.

Car problems are frustrating enough—you shouldn’t have to fight the manufacturer alone. Let us deal with the legal side while you focus on getting back on the road. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help.

If you’ve had car trouble in 2025, you’re not alone. Recalls have already impacted millions of vehicles across the country this year, and the list keeps growing. From engine issues to faulty cameras and airbag failures, these problems go far beyond simple inconvenience—they can put your safety at risk. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the most significant recalls so far in 2025 and explain what you can do if your car is affected. At The Lemon Firm, we help California drivers understand their rights and take action when a vehicle doesn’t perform as promised.

Ford: Leading in Recalls

Ford has had a rough year. As of April 2025, they’ve issued 45 separate recalls—the highest number of any automaker so far. While the problems vary, they include everything from powertrain failures to fire risks. If you own a Ford, it’s worth checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database to see if your model is on the list.

We’ve helped many clients deal with Ford-related defects, and we’re ready to help you if repeated issues have kept your car off the road.

General Motors: Engine Trouble in Full-Size Models

General Motors recently recalled nearly 600,000 vehicles due to engine failure risks. The recall affects full-size trucks and SUVs with 6.2-liter V8 engines. Manufacturing defects in the engine’s connecting rods and crankshafts could cause the engine to fail unexpectedly.

Drivers might hear strange knocking noises or notice performance problems. If you drive a Cadillac, Chevrolet, or GMC with this engine, don’t wait. Bring it in for inspection. If you’ve had multiple repairs for the same issue, we may be able to help you get a refund or replacement under California’s Lemon Law.

Tesla: Cybertruck Recall Hits Hard

Tesla made headlines again—this time for recalling nearly all Cybertrucks produced between late 2023 and early 2025. Over 46,000 vehicles are affected due to a trim panel that can detach while driving. Unlike most Tesla recalls, this one can’t be fixed with a software update. Owners need to bring their trucks in for physical repairs.

If your Cybertruck has had repeated issues and multiple repairs, you may have a Lemon Law claim. Electric vehicles are covered under California law, too.

Volvo and Polestar: Back-Up Camera Failures

Rearview camera failures have triggered major recalls for both Volvo and Polestar.

• Volvo recalled over 400,000 vehicles for camera issues.
• Polestar recalled more than 27,000 Polestar 2 models.

The issue is that the image sometimes doesn’t display when the vehicle is put in reverse, which increases the risk of a collision. Software updates may fix the issue, but if yours keeps coming back, you don’t have to just live with it.

Honda: Tailgate Lighting Issues in the Acura MDX

Honda has issued a recall for more than 152,000 Acura MDX vehicles built between 2014 and 2020. Moisture can seep into the tailgate light assembly, causing the lights to fail.

That’s a serious problem, especially at night or during bad weather. Reduced visibility increases the chances of a crash. Repairs are free, but if your Acura has been repaired multiple times without success, you may be eligible for Lemon Law protection.

Volkswagen: Too Few Seatbelts in the ID. Buzz

Volkswagen’s electric van, the ID. Buzz, is facing a recall over its third-row bench seat. U.S. rules require a third seatbelt for the size of that row, but VW didn’t include one. Instead of adding a seatbelt, the company is trimming the seat’s usable width to comply with regulations.

If you’re concerned about how this fix affects your van’s function or comfort, we’re happy to review your situation and offer guidance.

Kia: Airbag and Seatbelt Wiring Defect

Kia is recalling more than 80,000 vehicles from its Niro line (EV, Hybrid, and Plug-In Hybrid models from 2023–2025). A wiring problem can prevent airbags and seatbelt pretensioners from working properly during a crash. That’s a significant safety risk. If your Niro has already been in the shop for this or related electrical issues, and they keep coming back, your car may be a lemon under California law.

Contact Our Experienced California Lemon Law Attorneys

Vehicle recalls are a reminder of how quickly things can go wrong. If your car is on this year’s recall list or if it’s been in and out of the shop for the same problem, we’re here to help. At The Lemon Firm, we’ve helped countless California drivers hold automakers accountable. You don’t have to deal with this alone. Call us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you get back on the road.

When you buy or lease a new car, you expect it to be reliable. Unfortunately, some vehicles turn out to have recurring problems that the dealer can’t seem to fix. California’s Lemon Law offers protection, but making a successful claim isn’t always straightforward. We’ve worked with many frustrated drivers, and we understand the common roadblocks that come up. This blog covers the most frequent challenges you might face and how we can help you through them.

Proving the Vehicle Is a “Lemon”

Not every defective car automatically qualifies as a lemon under California law. One of the biggest challenges is showing that your vehicle meets the legal definition. That usually means you’ve given the manufacturer or dealer a reasonable number of attempts to fix the issue, or the car has been out of service for a significant number of days.

The catch? The law doesn’t give a hard number in every situation. For serious safety defects, even two failed repair attempts may be enough. For other problems, it may take more. What matters most is strong documentation:

• Service records showing each visit
• Descriptions of the problem as reported to the dealership
• Dates the car was out of use

If the dealer doesn’t document things correctly or doesn’t acknowledge the issue, it can hurt your claim. That’s why we encourage clients to keep their own records from day one.

Incomplete or Missing Paperwork

A lemon law claim is only as strong as the paperwork behind it. In many cases, clients come to us after realizing that their repair records are incomplete, or worse, never issued at all.

It’s common for service centers to give vague descriptions like “could not duplicate issue” or “no problem found.” These notes might not reflect the actual complaint or may omit critical details. Other times, repair invoices are never provided or are missing information.

To help build a solid case, we recommend:

• Asking for a detailed invoice every time your car is serviced
• Taking photos or videos of recurring problems
• Keeping a timeline of when issues happened

Even if you didn’t keep everything from the start, we can help track down what’s needed.

Dealing with the Manufacturer

Once it’s clear your vehicle qualifies, the next hurdle is often the manufacturer. Some car companies cooperate quickly, but many do not. It’s common to face:

• Delays in communication
• Offers that are far below what you’re owed
• Requirements to repeat repairs or send the car to another dealer

Manufacturers have legal teams and claims departments whose job is to save money. We’ve seen them offer low refunds or deny claims entirely, even when the facts are clear. We can handle the back-and-forth and advocate for fair treatment.

Disputes Over Warranty Coverage

Another challenge is whether your car’s problems are covered under warranty. For new cars, this is usually more straightforward. However, things get more complicated for used vehicles or Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) models.

Recent court decisions have also changed how used cars are treated under the law. For example, the Rodriguez v. FCA case clarified that unless the car came with a new car warranty (like CPO coverage), buyers may not be entitled to a refund or replacement, even if a manufacturer’s warranty is still active. Repairs may still be covered, but buyback claims may be limited.

We review your warranty terms carefully and explain your rights clearly, so there are no surprises.

Recent Legal Changes and Mediation Requirements

In 2024, California passed Assembly Bill 1755, which added a new step to the lemon law process: mandatory mediation. Before you can file a lawsuit, you now have to give the manufacturer a chance to resolve the issue through mediation.

While this new process aims to speed up resolutions, it can add confusion or delay if you’re not prepared. We come to every mediation fully organized, with documents, timelines, and legal arguments ready to go. We make sure manufacturers don’t use mediation as an excuse to stall.

How We Help You Overcome These Obstacles

Lemon law claims can quickly get overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to deal with car trouble, missed work, and a manufacturer that keeps giving you the runaround. The Lemon Firm helps clients gather records, prepare claims, and deal directly with manufacturers and their lawyers. Whether your case goes through mediation or ends up in court, we’re ready to push for a resolution that reflects what you’ve been through.

You deserve a car that works—and a legal team that works for you.

Contact Our Experienced California Lemon Law Attorneys

If you’re tired of dealing with a car that keeps breaking down and a company that won’t do the right thing, contact The Lemon Firm. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next step. Consultations are free, and you don’t pay unless we win your case.

Purchasing a new vehicle that turns out to be a lemon—one that doesn’t meet quality and performance standards—can be a frustrating experience. If you’ve purchased a lemon in California, but can’t afford an attorney, there is still hope. The good news is that several options are available to help you enforce your rights and obtain a buyback or refund for your lemon vehicle. 

Understanding Your Rights under California’s Lemon Law

The California Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that are defective or malfunctioning. If your car has persistent flaws that haven’t been sufficiently repaired after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement or even a full refund. 

Attempting to file a claim against the manufacturer can be challenging, especially for individuals who an attorney does not represent. While having an attorney can certainly give you an edge, it’s essential to know that you can also fight for your rights on your own, even if you’re on a budget.

Empower Yourself with Knowledge

Understanding your legal rights is the first step toward taking action against a vehicle manufacturer. In California, consumers have the legal right to pursue a refund or a replacement vehicle if the vehicle has a substantial defect covered under warranty, the defect emerged within the warranty period, and the manufacturer has made a reasonable number of attempts to fix the issue.

Stay Organized and Keep Comprehensive Records

When you’re facing a lemon, every detail counts. Meticulously document everything related to your vehicle’s repairs, including dates, descriptions of the issues, and outcomes. Keep receipts and any communication with the dealership or manufacturer. This solid documentation will serve as robust evidence if you decide to pursue your claim independently.

Tap Into Free Legal Resources

California has several non-profit organizations and legal aid clinics dedicated to helping consumers like you. Resources such as the Consumer Law Project and local legal aid societies can offer assistance with Lemon Law claims, often at no cost.

Additionally, consider contacting local law schools for further guidance. Many offer free legal assistance, where students, guided by experienced faculty, can help you understand your case and your options without incurring additional costs.

Discuss Payment Options with an Attorney 

Many attorneys offer free initial consultations. During an initial consultation, you can discuss your case and learn about your legal options without any financial commitment. You can typically call the law firm directly or fill out a contact form on their website to schedule a consultation. 

If you are concerned about the cost of hiring an attorney, consider that many Lemon Law firms offer flexible payment plans, including contingency fee arrangements. With a contingency fee plan, you won’t pay any upfront fees. Instead, the attorney will take a percentage of the settlement or award if you win your case. Be sure to discuss these options during your consultation to find a payment structure that works for you. 

Contact an Experienced Lemon Law Attorney in California

Your rights as a consumer are there to protect you, and you don’t need to face this battle alone or in silence. Before you decide to represent yourself, we recommend contacting California Consumer Attorneys, P.C. to schedule a case evaluation with one of our experienced attorneys. We offer flexible payment options that can ease your financial burdens. 

Call 833-Lemon-Firm and speak with a case analyst today!