Category: Lemon Law

When you’re dealing with a vehicle that keeps breaking down, figuring out the best way to start your lemon law case shouldn’t add to your stress. At The Lemon Firm, we want to make the process as straightforward as possible. You have options to meet with us however is easiest for you—whether that’s over the phone, through a virtual meeting, or in person. Our goal is to provide you with the same dedication, guidance, and support, no matter which approach fits your needs best.

Understanding Your Options: Meeting in Person, By Phone, or Virtually

At The Lemon Firm, we understand that accessibility matters, which is why we offer several ways to connect with our team. You can choose an in-person consultation at our office, where you’ll receive direct, face-to-face guidance on your lemon law case. If an office visit doesn’t fit your schedule, a phone call or virtual meeting can be just as effective. Each option delivers the same thorough, attentive service, so you can feel confident you’re in good hands regardless of how you meet with us.

Getting the Same Service, Wherever You Are

No matter how you choose to meet with us, our commitment to your case remains the same. Whether you’re in our office, on a call, or connected through a virtual meeting, you’ll receive the same level of care and attention to detail. We know that your time and convenience matter, so we make it easy for clients across California to access our services. Phone and virtual meetings allow us to serve you wherever you are, bringing our knowledge and guidance directly to you without added travel or wait times. Each consultation is focused on understanding your concerns and addressing your needs so that you receive consistent, reliable support, no matter where you’re located.

How to Prepare for Your Lemon Law Consultation

Preparing for your lemon law consultation helps us understand your case clearly and makes our discussion more productive. Here are a few steps to get ready:

• Gather Documents: Bring purchase agreements, repair records, warranties, and any correspondence with the manufacturer or dealer.
• Make a List of Questions: Note any specific questions or concerns you have about your vehicle or the lemon law process.
• Prepare Key Details: Jot down dates of repairs, the problems you’ve encountered, and any steps you’ve taken to address them.

Following these steps helps us provide a thorough, personalized assessment to support your lemon law claim.

Contact Our Experienced Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorneys

No matter where or how you connect with us, we’re here to support you in your lemon law case. Contact The Lemon Firm today to schedule your consultation—by phone, virtually, or in person—and take the first step toward resolution.

California’s Lemon Law offers valuable protection for consumers facing serious vehicle defects. However, not every issue qualifies under this law. Some problems, though inconvenient or frustrating, may not meet the legal standards for coverage. Knowing the difference can prevent misunderstandings and help you make informed choices about repairs and claims. If you’ve noticed issues with your car and aren’t sure what falls under Lemon Law protection, understanding these exclusions can be a helpful first step in deciding your next move.

Cosmetic Defects

Cosmetic issues, such as minor paint chips, upholstery wear, or small scratches, generally aren’t covered by California’s Lemon Law. These defects, while disappointing, don’t impact a vehicle’s performance, safety, or functionality, which is the focus of the law. For example, a small dent or slight fading in the paint might affect the look of your car but won’t influence its ability to operate safely on the road. If you’re experiencing cosmetic problems, consulting your warranty provider or dealership may be a better route for potential repair options.

Damage from Improper Use or Maintenance

The California Lemon Law doesn’t cover issues resulting from improper use or lack of maintenance. If a defect arises because the vehicle wasn’t serviced according to the manufacturer’s guidelines or was used in ways outside its intended purpose, Lemon Law protections generally won’t apply. For instance, if a truck designed for standard road use develops issues after being driven off-road or if a car experiences engine trouble due to skipped oil changes, these problems are unlikely to be covered. Regular maintenance and responsible use are key to ensuring coverage eligibility. 

Minor Noises, Vibrations, or Sensory Issues

Minor noises, vibrations, or sensory issues can be annoying, but California’s Lemon Law generally doesn’t cover them unless they significantly affect the vehicle’s safety or performance. For example, a faint rattle or slight vibration in the dashboard might be bothersome but doesn’t necessarily indicate a defect that impacts the car’s operation. Lemon Law protections focus on substantial issues that prevent a vehicle from functioning as intended, so smaller quirks that don’t pose a safety risk or interfere with driving may not qualify. If you’re unsure whether a particular noise or vibration indicates a larger problem, a trusted mechanic can help determine if it’s a standard quirk or something more serious.

Issues Not Reported Within Warranty Period

Under California’s Lemon Law, issues generally need to be reported within the vehicle’s warranty period to be eligible for coverage. If a defect isn’t brought to the dealership or manufacturer’s attention before the warranty expires, it may no longer qualify for repair or replacement under Lemon Law protections. This is because the law is designed to cover defects that arise and are documented during the warranty’s active period, ensuring manufacturers address problems while they’re still responsible for the vehicle’s quality. If you notice an issue, report it as soon as possible to avoid complications with coverage. Keeping a record of reported defects and repair attempts can also help if a dispute arises later.

Know Your Lemon Law Rights and Limitations

Understanding what the California Lemon Law covers—and doesn’t—can make all the difference when dealing with vehicle defects. While certain issues may fall outside Lemon Law protections, knowing these exclusions helps you take the right steps for repairs or claims. If you’re dealing with a defect and are uncertain about your options, we’re here to help you review your case and determine your rights under the law. Reach out to The Lemon Firm today for guidance and support in ensuring you get the treatment you deserve.

Choosing the right legal team for your lemon law case can make all the difference. At CCA-The Lemon Firm, we’re dedicated to supporting California consumers. When you’re facing vehicle issues and feeling the frustration of repeated repairs, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. That’s where we come in. We make the process straightforward and stress-free, ensuring you feel supported and informed. Our commitment is to deliver real results so you can get back on the road with confidence.

Our Approach: Client-focused and Transparent

At CCA-The Lemon Firm, our approach centers around you. We believe every client deserves a clear, straightforward path when dealing with a lemon law case. From the moment you reach out, we focus on understanding your concerns, vehicle issues, and goals. We provide you with a transparent roadmap, keeping you informed about every step and update so you always know where your case stands. By prioritizing your satisfaction and peace of mind, we build trust and long-lasting client relationships. 

Our Experience and Proven Record of Success

Because California’s lemon law can be complex, it’s important to have a dedicated and tenacious legal team on your side. At CCA-The Lemon Firm, we’ve successfully handled hundreds of lemon law cases, securing compensation and favorable outcomes for clients across the state. Automotive manufacturers often have the resources and legal power to intimidate consumers, but our team is prepared to fight back. Unlike other firms, we ensure that every claim is managed by California’s top consumer advocacy attorneys who know the ins and outs of lemon law. 

Our track record speaks for itself—we’ve achieved millions in settlements and buybacks for our clients, giving them the justice they deserve. When you work with CCA, you’re choosing a team committed to leveling the playing field and winning the results you need.

Personalized Solutions Tailored to Your Case

We know that no two lemon law cases are the same, so we tailor our approach to fit your specific needs and circumstances. We take the time to listen and understand the details of your vehicle’s issues, your repair history, and your concerns. Doing so allows us to develop a personalized legal strategy that gives you the best chance for a successful outcome. Unlike larger firms, we provide individualized attention and dedicated support throughout the entire process. Our goal is to make sure you feel heard, understood, and confident that your case is in capable hands.

No Upfront Costs: We Only Get Paid If You Win

At CCA, we believe everyone should have access to legal representation without the stress of upfront costs. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay anything unless we secure a win for you. This means we’re fully invested in your case from start to finish, and our success depends on achieving a positive outcome for you. You can pursue your lemon law claim without any financial burden, knowing that we’re committed to delivering results. It’s a risk-free way to get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Experienced Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorneys

Choosing CCA-The Lemon Firm means choosing dedicated support, proven results, and personalized solutions—all with no upfront costs. Don’t settle for repeated repairs and frustration. Let us fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and start your lemon law claim.

The California Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that turn out to have significant defects. It requires the manufacturer to repurchase or replace the vehicle if it can’t be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts. The law applies to vehicles still under warranty and covers cars, trucks, motorcycles, and certain recreational vehicles. However, recent updates, including Assembly Bill 1755, aim to streamline the lemon law process.

AB 1755 revises numerous critical parts of the lemon law through revisions to the California Code of Civil Procedure. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill, which introduces several key changes that impact consumers and manufacturers alike.  

To understand these changes and how they impact your Lemon Law claim, it is crucial that you consult with skilled lemon law counsel, like CCA.  

Key Changes Introduced by AB 1755

1. Mandatory Mediation Process: One of the most significant updates is the introduction of a mandatory mediation process for lemon law claims. Before consumers can proceed with a lawsuit, they must first attempt to resolve the issue through mediation with the vehicle manufacturer. 
2. Mandatory Discovery Process: AB 1755 now mandates that the automaker and consumer engage in the immediate and voluntary exchange of information, once the lemon law lawsuit is filed.  Consumers no longer need to wait for automakers to produce documents and a witness for deposition.  AB 1755 now mandates that automakers provide certain discovery at the outset of a lemon law lawsuit.  
3. Discovery Stay During Mediation: The bill also stays any additional discovery —such as depositions or document requests—until the mediation process is complete. This is designed to lower litigation costs and reduce the burden on the courts, as well as the involved parties.  Once mediation is complete, the Parties resume normal discovery.  
4. Increased Consumer Protections: AB 1755 emphasizes the protection of consumer rights during the mediation process. Consumers will still retain the right to take legal action if the mediation fails to deliver a satisfactory outcome. The bill also ensures that any settlement or resolution during mediation must align with the protections provided under the original lemon law.
5. Clarification of Civil Penalties: The law introduces clearer guidelines around civil penalties. For instance, manufacturers that knowingly violate lemon law provisions could face stiffer fines. These financial penalties are intended to deter manufacturers from avoiding their legal obligations under the law.

Impact on Consumers and Courts

Proponents of the bill argue that AB 1755 will make it easier for consumers to resolve lemon law disputes without needing to navigate a lengthy and costly legal battle. By encouraging mediation, the law aims to reduce court backlogs and offer quicker relief for consumers.

On the other hand, some critics express concerns that mandatory mediation could favor manufacturers, who might use the process to delay full compensation. However, consumer advocates argue that the penalties for non-compliance will keep automakers accountable.

The bill’s supporters also highlight General Motors’ involvement in the reforms. GM faces a significant portion of lemon law claims in California, and the auto giant’s backing of the bill indicates that some automakers see the benefits of the new system.

Contact an Experienced Lemon Law Attorney at CCA Today 

If you are unsure if you have a lemon on your hands or are confused about these recent changes, contact our experienced California lemon law attorneys today! Our legal team has extensive experience handling lemon law claims and a proven history of helping our clients obtain the maximum possible compensation. 

Did you recently buy a car that’s been giving you more trouble than it’s worth? You might have a lemon on your hands, and California’s Lemon Law could be your ticket to compensation for your headache. However, there are strict timelines for taking advantage of the law’s protections, and if you miss the deadline, you could be out of luck.

CCA – The Lemon Firm stands with Los Angeles consumers and can provide the guidance you need to win a Lemon Law claim. In this blog, we’ll unpack the Lemon Law timelines, offering clear, actionable steps you can take to demand fair compensation. Understanding these timelines is the first step toward turning your frustrating situation into a victory.

Statute of Limitations for a California Lemon Law Lawsuit

Under the California Commercial Code, the absolute deadline to file a lawsuit related to a Lemon Law claim is four years. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to demand compensation from the defective vehicle’s manufacturer or the dealer who sold you the car.

The tricky part of this deadline is when the four-year countdown starts. California courts have said that the deadline applies from when a consumer discovered or reasonably should have discovered that a car is a lemon. Given the ambiguities of this rule, your best bet is to speak to an attorney right away if you suspect your car has a significant defect.

The Lemon Law Only Applies to Cars Under the Original Manufacturer’s Warranty

There’s one final time consideration in California Lemon Law claims: the law only applies to vehicles under the manufacturer’s original warranty. Because of this requirement, many used cars do not qualify for a Lemon Law claim. It’s also worth noting that the Lemon Law only applies to original manufacturer parts, not aftermarket parts or any modifications you make.

How We Can Help with a California Lemon Law Claim

At CCA – The Lemon Firm, we’re dedicated to handling your Lemon Law claim with precision and care. Our team can file and prepare your claim on your behalf, so you know all the necessary paperwork and evidence are in order. Moreover, we can insist that you not only receive a refund or replacement vehicle but also pursue additional compensation through a civil penalty. While such penalties are not guaranteed, our proactive approach aims to maximize your chance of getting the financial relief and justice you deserve.

You have a limited time to act if you bought a defective vehicle, so don’t wait to start your claim. Call CCA – The Lemon Firm today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.

Does your small business rely on commercial vehicles to operate? If so, you know all too well that your profits depend on the reliability of these critical assets – and you could be in serious financial trouble if you discover you’ve been sold a lemon. Fortunately, California’s Lemon Law could protect you in these circumstances.

At CCA – TheLemonFirm, we’re here to defend your rights and guide you through a Lemon Law claim for your commercial vehicle. The Lemon Law’s ins and outs are complicated, especially for commercial vehicles, which is why we want to shed some light on how it applies to your commercial fleet and how you can secure fair compensation if your vehicle is a dud. Let’s dive in.

Does the California Lemon Law Apply to Commercial Vehicles?

The California Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, primarily protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles for personal, family, or household purposes. However, the law also extends coverage to certain commercial vehicles. If a business owns or leases no more than five vehicles, including trucks and vans, the California Lemon Law may apply to those vehicles. This means that if a covered commercial vehicle has a recurring defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety, and the manufacturer fails to repair it after a reasonable number of attempts, the business may be entitled to a refund or replacement of the vehicle.

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) vs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

Because your ability to bring a Lemon Law claim for a commercial vehicle is dependent on the vehicle’s weight, it’s important that you understand the distinction between two similar but distinct terms: Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). GVW refers to the vehicle’s actual weight, while GVWR refers to what a vehicle weighs with people and cargo inside. The Lemon Law covers commercial vehicles with a GVW of less than 10,000 pounds, which is what the vehicle weighs by itself, not when it’s carrying anything.

What Commercial Vehicle Defects Apply in a California Lemon Law Claim?

Not all vehicle defects qualify you for a Lemon Law claim in California. First and foremost, the Lemon Law only applies to parts covered under the vehicle’s manufacturer warranty. If you made any modifications to your vehicle or used aftermarket parts, those parts do not qualify for Lemon Law protections.

Second, the law says you must give the manufacturer a “reasonable” number of attempts to fix the defect. What qualifies as “reasonable” depends on the nature of the problem; as a general rule, one or two attempts is usually reasonable for safety defects that could cause injuries or death, while three is understood as reasonable for general  defects. You might also qualify for a Lemon Law claim if you have not been able to use your vehicle for more than 30 days since you bought it.

It should be noted, however, that if your business has more than 5 vehicles actively registered to the corporation or LLC, you cannot prevail from filing a lawsuit under the Song Beverly act.

CCA – TheLemonFirm has extensive experience with Lemon Law claims and can help you pursue fair compensation for a defective commercial vehicle. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.

The California lemon law clearly outlines automakers’ and dealers’ responsibilities to their customers. Unfortunately, these companies routinely refuse to honor these obligations and fight lemon law claims tooth and nail. If you’re going to pursue a claim against an automaker or dealer for a defective vehicle, be prepared for a long fight and take proper steps in advance. Here are a few tips from our seasoned California lemon law attorneys for a successful claim.

Know Your Rights

The California lemon law, formally called the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, says all consumer goods sold in the state (including cars) have certain implied warranties. These include implied warranties that cars will perform as promised and for their designed purpose, and that cars are of comparable quality to similar vehicles.

If your vehicle has repeated defects that you have repeatedly but unsuccessfully tried to have repaired, the lemon law says you can demand a refund or a replacement vehicle. However, there are some vital caveats to understand.

First, the most robust protections of the California lemon law apply to vehicles within the first 18 months of purchase or that have fewer than 18,000 miles driven, whichever comes first. That does not necessarily mean that older cars don’t have legal protections, only that you might have a more challenging time proving your case.

Second, the lemon law protections only apply to defects covered by the vehicle’s factory warranty. In other words, you don’t have legal protections for aftermarket parts or modifications. Finally, you must give the manufacturer or dealer a “reasonable” number of attempts to fix the defect. However, courts have ruled that the “reasonable” number of attempts may be as low as two in certain cases, so bear that in mind.

Document Everything

There’s one golden rule in California lemon law cases: Document everything, no matter how seemingly insignificant. Why is this so crucial, you ask? Well, in the lemon law arena, your paperwork is your best ally. Every time you take your car in for repairs, you’re collecting evidence. This evidence paints a clear picture of the problems you’re facing with your vehicle. But it’s not just about dates and repair shop visits. The severity and nature of the issues matter, too. Is your car making that strange noise again? Does it refuse to start on cold mornings? Write it down. These details matter because they show patterns.

Remember: In the legal world, it’s not just about what you know; it’s about what you can prove. And your meticulous records are the proof you need to win your case.

Understand the Repair Process

Familiarize yourself with the dealership’s repair process and your vehicle’s warranty terms. Knowing what repairs have been attempted, which parts were replaced, and the details of the dealership’s diagnostic findings can provide critical evidence for your claim.

Communicate Clearly with Dealerships

When you take your car in for repairs, be precise about the problems. Vague descriptions can lead to unresolved issues. Clear communication ensures that the technicians know exactly what to look for and fix.

Don’t Settle Too Quickly

Sometimes, manufacturers might offer a quick settlement that may not fully compensate you for your troubles. Be patient and consult an attorney to make sure any settlement offer you receive is fair and just.

Maintain a Positive Relationship with Your Dealer or Manufacturer

While it’s important to stand firm on your rights, maintaining a cordial relationship can facilitate smoother communication and potentially expedite your claim process.

Seek Professional Guidance

California lemon law claims can be complex. Consulting a law firm that routinely handles lemon law cases can provide you with the guidance and representation you need to navigate the process effectively.

Need Help with a California Lemon Law Case? Contact Us Today

The best step you can take to protect your rights in a California lemon law claim is to hire an attorney who understands these cases. The seasoned lemon law attorneys at The Lemon Firm know the ins and outs of these complex cases and can guide you toward a successful resolution. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.

Lemon law cases in California cover a wide range of vehicles and defects. Even among that wide range, however, certain cases stick out when you’ve spent your career as a California lemon law attorney. The team at The Lemon Firm wanted to shine a spotlight on some of the unusual cases we’ve handled and the successful outcomes we’ve achieved for our clients. You’ll find more information on these cases below.

Case #1: The Jeep Grand Cherokee That Caught Fire

Our client in this case was a retired contractor living in El Dorado Hills. In November 2011, he purchased a 2011 model year Jeep Grand Cherokee. Despite paying $40,000 for a new vehicle, the Grand Cherokee had multiple pervasive problems. Many of these issues stemmed from problems with the Grand Cherokee’s electrical system. In fact, the Jeep even caught fire at one point because of a problem with the wiring in the vanity mirror. This vanity mirror wiring issue was so pervasive among 2011 Grand Cherokees that the company issued a recall. When we took the case, we won a settlement worth over three times the vehicle’s Lemon Law buyback price. The courts also ordered the manufacturer to cover the client’s legal fees.

Case #2: Defective F-350 Leaves Woman and Her Horses Stranded Multiple Times

In this case, our client was a Santa Barbara woman who bought a 2013 Ford F-350 pickup truck to tow her horses in a trailer and travel throughout the county. Unfortunately, the truck repeatedly broke down during operation, leaving the owner and her horses stranded on the side of the road multiple times. Our client took the truck in for multiple repair services, but Ford couldn’t fix the underlying issue and would not repurchase the vehicle from her. We took her case and eventually won her a settlement worth more than 2.5 times what she initially paid for the truck. Ford also had to pay her legal expenses.

Case #3: Hyundai Insists Oil Consumption Problem Does Not Exist

Many California lemon law cases involve automakers refusing to repurchase a customer’s vehicle while acknowledging the underlying defect. In this case, however, the manufacturer refused to acknowledge the vehicle’s obvious defect. Our client had leased a Hyundai Genesis that developed constant oil consumption problems, leading to severe performance issues. We took the case and eventually won a jury verdict in his favor. Our client received a settlement worth more than what he initially paid for the vehicle, and Hyundai had to cover his legal fees.

Case #4: Dodge Grand Caravan Still Defective After Over 13 Repairs

The California lemon law says you must give manufacturers a “reasonable” number of attempts to fix a defect before asking them to refund your purchase or give you a new vehicle. While the “reasonable” number of attempts varies depending on the defect, 13 tries are clearly too many. Unfortunately for our client, the manufacturer could not address the engine oil leaks and transmission issues in her 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan after over 13 tries. Worse still, the manufacturer refused to honor their legal obligations and repurchase the vehicle after all these failed repair attempts. When we got involved, we eventually won her a settlement worth nearly three times what she paid for the vehicle.

Case #5: BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” Is a Lemon

For many years, BMW used the “Ultimate Driving Machine” slogan to describe its supposedly dependable, reliable vehicles. Not so in the case of this 2013 X6 crossover. Our client’s vehicle had a constant series of problems, including suspension problems, frequent engine oil and temperature gauge warnings, and other engine issues. BMW stubbornly refused to repurchase the defective vehicle, at which point our client contacted us. We took the case to trial, and a jury eventually ordered the manufacturer to pay all her repair bills, an additional civil penalty worth approximately 1.5 times what she paid for the car, and to cover all her legal bills.

Is an Automaker Refusing to Honor Your Lemon Law Claim? We Can Help

Automakers and dealerships have specific obligations under the California lemon law, and we can help if they refuse to repurchase your defective vehicle or provide you with a replacement. Call The Lemon Firm today or complete our contact form for a free consultation.