Category: Lemon Law

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!

If you’ve successfully won your lemon law case, you might be wondering what comes next. Understanding what happens after winning in a lemon law case, including what form of compensation you can expect to receive for your defective vehicle, can help you ensure that your legal rights are fully upheld. 

Understanding California Lemon Laws

The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, often called California’s Lemon Law, protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards. You may have a winnable lemon law case if your car has a substantial defect that can’t be fixed after several reasonable attempts. If you can prove the vehicle meets the requirements of a “lemon” under California law, the manufacturer will be compelled to take action.

The Lemon Law Victory: What Happens Next?

The vehicle manufacturer will need to take action after you win your lemon law case. Typically, they will have a specific timeframe to comply with the judgment or settlement agreement. The vehicle’s manufacturer may be required to repurchase your vehicle, replace it, or provide you with the substantial repairs necessary to bring the car up to the standards expected under warranty.

The compensation you receive can vary widely based on the specifics of your case. Generally, if you win a lemon law case, you may be entitled to one or more of the following types of compensation:

• Refund of Purchase Price: This includes the amount you paid for the car and any associated fees (like taxes, registration, etc.).
• Replacement Vehicle: In some cases, you might be able to choose a different vehicle of similar value.
• Damages for Inconvenience: If you’ve encountered significant hardships due to the lemon vehicle, you may be entitled to additional damages for your inconvenience and any related issues, such as the cost of rental car fees or lost wages.

One unique benefit of winning under California’s lemon law is that the manufacturer is usually responsible for covering your attorney’s fees. This ensures that consumers can protect their rights without worrying about the financial burden of paying for legal representation.

The Vehicle Repurchase or Replacement Process

If your case involves the repurchase of your defective vehicle by the manufacturer, the process typically begins shortly after a ruling in your favor. The manufacturer will likely inspect the vehicle and assess any damage before finalizing the buyback. 

The buyback amount will depend on the vehicle’s condition and mileage. Normal wear and tear should not significantly impact your refund, but the manufacturer may try to decrease the buyback amount if the vehicle has significant damage. 

After you win, the buyback process will take several weeks to complete while the manufacturer processes the necessary paperwork and payments. If you’re replacing your vehicle, the manufacturer will offer you a new car or a comparable model. Be sure to clarify which vehicle you’ll receive to make sure you’re satisfied with the replacement.

Protecting Your Legal Rights After Your Victory

After your legal victory, you should keep all documents associated with your case, including the judgment or settlement agreement. It’s important to have a record of what was agreed upon and any correspondence with the manufacturer. If the manufacturer fails to comply, you may need to consult your attorney to take further action.

Contact a Lemon Law Attorney in California 

If you’ve won a lemon law case in California, you likely feel a sense of relief and closure. Should any complications arise after your victory, remember that you have legal rights protected under California law. If you need personalized assistance or have questions about your lemon law case, don’t hesitate to contact the skilled lemon law attorneys at California Consumer Attorneys, P.C. 

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

Commercial vehicles are essential for deliveries, transporting clients, or providing services for many California businesses. Having reliable vehicles is a crucial aspect of commercial success. When a commercial vehicle turns out to be a defective lemon, it can disrupt a business’s productivity and cause financial strain. Business owners who purchase a lemon can pursue a replacement vehicle or a refund under California’s lemon law. 

Does the Lemon Law Apply to Commercial Vehicles? 

The stakes are high for businesses relying on commercial vehicles, including trucks, vans, or other specialized vehicles. A defect in a commercial vehicle can lead to delayed deliveries, lost customers, increased operational costs, and damaged reputations. Knowing your rights and the process for making a lemon law claim is crucial for protecting your investments.

Lemon laws protect consumers from vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards. In California, the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (“Lemon Law”) provides legal protection for individual consumers and businesses that purchase or lease commercial vehicles. Suppose a commercial vehicle is defective and cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts or has been out of service for a significant amount of time. In that case, the owner may be entitled to a replacement vehicle of a similar value or a refund.

Criteria for Filing a Lemon Law Claim in California

A commercial vehicle must meet specific criteria to qualify for lemon law protection in California.

The vehicle must have a defect that substantially impairs its use, safety, or value. This can include serious mechanical failures, persistent electrical issues, or significant safety concerns. The vehicle must be covered under a manufacturer’s or dealer’s warranty when the defect is discovered. The vehicle owner must also allow the manufacturer or dealer a reasonable opportunity to fix the defect. No specific amount of repair time is mentioned in the Lemon law. Still, generally, this involves at least two unsuccessful repair attempts for the same issue or being out of service for more than 30 days due to repairs. 

Additional Requirements for Commercial Vehicles 

Commercial vehicles need to meet additional requirements under California’s lemon law. They must primarily be used for business purposes, which can include commercial trucks, vans, or any necessary vehicle for operations. The vehicle must have been purchased in California. The business that owns the vehicle can’t have more than five vehicles registered in its name. 

The vehicle’s “gross vehicle weight” cannot exceed 10,000 pounds. Gross weight refers to the vehicle’s actual weight, not the capacity the vehicle is designed to carry when fully loaded. The 10,000-pound weight limit covers smaller sedans and trucks used by some businesses. 

How CA’s Lemon Law Protects Businesses

When a commercial vehicle qualifies as a lemon, business owners have several options for compensation. Depending on the specific type of defect, the business may be entitled to a replacement vehicle that meets the original specifications or a refund of the purchase price minus a reasonable usage fee for the time the vehicle was operational.

Suppose you suspect your commercial vehicle might be a lemon. In that case, you’ll benefit from keeping detailed records of all repairs, including dates, services performed, and any communication with the dealership or manufacturer. Document the impact of the vehicle’s defects on your business operations, such as lost contracts or delayed services. You’ll need to notify the manufacturer or dealer about the defect and give them a reasonable amount of time to repair it.

If the defects persist after reasonable repair attempts, you’ll benefit from hiring an attorney who can help you file a lemon law claim. The claims process may involve arbitration or formal legal action depending on the circumstances.

Contact a Lemon Law Attorney in California 

If you have purchased or leased a defective commercial vehicle, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. The Lemon Firm is dedicated to helping business owners navigate the complexities of California’s lemon law. Fill out our contact form or call 833-Lemon-Firm for a free consultation, and let our experienced team work with you to resolve your vehicle issues effectively.

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!

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.

When you invest in a new vehicle, you expect it to perform reliably and safely. Unfortunately, not all cars live up to these expectations. Some vehicles experience repeated defects or safety issues that leave drivers frustrated and financially burdened. California’s lemon law protects you in these situations, ensuring that manufacturers are held accountable for selling defective cars. By understanding the patterns among vehicle manufacturers, you can make more informed decisions and take action when something goes wrong. 

What Makes a Vehicle a Lemon?

Under California law, a vehicle qualifies as a lemon if it has significant defects that affect its use, safety, or value, and the manufacturer cannot fix them after a reasonable number of attempts. Typically, these issues must arise within the warranty period and persist despite repairs. Common defects include transmission failures, engine problems, electrical malfunctions, or faulty brakes.  

California’s Lemon Law protects consumers by requiring manufacturers to replace or repurchase defective vehicles if they fail to resolve problems. The law applies to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even leased vehicles.  

What counts as a “reasonable number of attempts” depends on the defect’s severity. For example, if the problem impacts safety, fewer repair attempts may qualify. If you suspect your vehicle is a lemon, it’s important to act quickly. We can evaluate your case and guide you toward the compensation you deserve. 

Top Manufacturers with Lemon Cars in 2024

Certain manufacturers stood out in 2024 for having a higher number of reported lemon cars. While not all models from these companies are problematic, some have seen repeated issues that left drivers frustrated. These are some of the top manufacturers with the most lemon cases in 2024 and the common issues tied to their vehicles:

• Ford:
  • Transmission failures in popular models like the Explorer and F-150.
  • Persistent electrical issues affecting navigation and infotainment systems.
• Chevrolet:
  • Engine problems in SUVs, including oil consumption and overheating.
  • Faulty brakes reported in trucks like the Silverado.
• Tesla:
  • Software glitches causing sudden system reboots.
  • Quality control concerns such as misaligned panels and paint defects.
• Jeep:
  • Issues with transmission shifting in models like the Cherokee.
  • Recurring electrical malfunctions in the Wrangler.

These trends highlight the importance of thorough research when purchasing a vehicle. While some manufacturers have addressed these concerns through recalls and updates, others continue to face criticism for unresolved defects.

If your vehicle has experienced repeated issues, it may qualify as a lemon under California law. We can help you determine if you’re eligible for compensation or a vehicle replacement.

Our Predictions for 2025

As we look ahead to 2025, we anticipate a continuation of certain trends while expecting new developments in vehicle manufacturing and recalls. Automakers will likely remain under scrutiny for unresolved defects from prior years. Tesla, for example, may continue to address software and quality control issues, as these concerns have persisted despite efforts to improve. Similarly, brands like Ford and Jeep may face challenges with mechanical defects in popular models.  

We also predict an increase in recalls related to advanced technology in vehicles. As features like automated driving systems and over-the-air updates become more common, software reliability will play a significant role in determining a car’s overall quality.  

Manufacturers are likely to ramp up efforts to prevent defects, but vigilance will remain key for consumers. Staying informed and proactive is the best way to avoid being stuck with a lemon. If problems arise, we’re here to help. 

How We Can Help You

At The Lemon Firm, we’re committed to helping California consumers hold vehicle manufacturers accountable for selling defective cars. If your vehicle has persistent issues that remain unresolved after multiple repair attempts, you may qualify for relief under the state’s lemon law. We work closely with you to build a strong case, whether you’re seeking a refund, replacement, or cash settlement. Our team ensures the process is as straightforward as possible, handling the legal complexities while you focus on what matters.

Contact Our Experienced California Lemon Law Attorneys

Dealing with a lemon car can be frustrating, but you don’t have to face it alone. At The Lemon Firm, we’re dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward resolving your case.

Nothing is as frustrating as a car that keeps breaking down. Whether it’s a safety issue or a defect that makes driving unreliable, repeated trips to the repair shop can leave you feeling stuck. You deserve a vehicle that works as promised, and California Lemon Law gives you the power to hold manufacturers accountable. If the same problem keeps returning despite multiple repair attempts, you don’t have to settle for frustration. There’s a path forward, and it starts with knowing your rights.

What Is California Lemon Law?

California Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease vehicles with persistent defects that the manufacturer fails to fix after a reasonable number of repair attempts. This law applies to vehicles covered by the manufacturer’s original warranty and ensures you are not stuck with a car that doesn’t perform as promised.

To qualify, the defect must significantly impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. For example, issues with brakes, steering, or the engine often meet this standard. The law also applies if your vehicle spends 30 days or more cumulatively in the repair shop during the warranty period, even for multiple issues.

If the manufacturer cannot resolve the defect, California Lemon Law may entitle you to a replacement vehicle, a refund, or compensation. The law aims to ensure fairness for consumers and holds manufacturers accountable for delivering safe and reliable vehicles.

How Many Chances Does the Manufacturer Get?

California Lemon Law doesn’t allow manufacturers endless opportunities to repair a defective vehicle. Instead, the law sets clear standards for how many attempts are considered “reasonable” before you can take action. Generally, this depends on the nature of the defect and its impact on safety and usability.  

For serious safety issues—like brake failure or steering problems—the manufacturer usually gets two attempts to fix the defect. These are defects that pose an immediate danger to you and others on the road. If the problem isn’t resolved after two repair attempts, the vehicle may qualify as a lemon.  

For less critical but still significant defects, the manufacturer typically gets up to four repair attempts. These might include issues that reduce the car’s value or make it unreliable, such as persistent electrical problems or air conditioning malfunctions.  

Additionally, the law includes a 30-day rule: if your car spends a cumulative 30 days or more in the shop for repairs during the warranty period, regardless of the type of defect, it may qualify for a claim.  

It’s important to keep thorough records of all repair attempts, including dates and the nature of the defect. These details can strengthen your claim and ensure a smoother resolution under California Lemon Law.

What Happens If the Manufacturer Doesn’t Fix the Problem?

If the manufacturer can’t fix the defect after a reasonable number of attempts, you have the right to take further action under California Lemon Law. This law ensures that you’re not stuck with a vehicle that fails to meet basic standards of safety, reliability, or value.  

Once it’s clear the issue isn’t resolved, you may file a Lemon Law claim to seek remedies. These remedies often include a replacement vehicle, a refund of your purchase price (minus a usage fee), or monetary compensation. The law also requires manufacturers to cover your legal fees if you prevail, making it easier to hold them accountable.  

It’s important to document every step of the repair process, including repair orders, invoices, and correspondence with the manufacturer. These records can provide critical evidence to support your claim and ensure you receive the resolution you deserve.

How We Can Help You File a Lemon Law Claim

At The Lemon Firm, we’re dedicated to helping you get the resolution you deserve under California Lemon Law. If your vehicle has a persistent defect that the manufacturer can’t or won’t fix, we’ll guide you through the claims process. Our team has extensive experience handling Lemon Law cases, and we know how to hold manufacturers accountable. We’ll review your repair records, assess your situation, and work to secure a replacement, refund, or compensation on your behalf. 

Contact Our Experienced Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorneys

Don’t let a defective vehicle disrupt your life—contact The Lemon Firm today for a free consultation and take the first step toward resolving your case.