California's lemon law gives drivers remedies when a vehicle has a significant defect covered by the warranty that is not fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts. A car that keeps going back to the shop can cost you time, money and peace of mind. An independent attorney can tell you whether your situation may qualify.
What this covers
- Defects in new vehicles that keep coming back after repairs
- Vehicles that spend long stretches in the shop for the same problem
- Safety problems with brakes, steering, airbags and similar systems
- Some leased vehicles, and some used vehicles that are still under warranty
What to have ready
- Your purchase or lease contract
- Every repair order, even if the shop said it found nothing
- Your warranty booklet and the dates the problems started
- Emails or letters with the dealer or manufacturer, and your current mileage
Common questions
How many repair attempts count? There is no single number that fits every case. What counts as reasonable depends on the problem, the warranty and the facts, so keep every repair order and note each visit.
Does the lemon law cover used cars? Sometimes, for example a used vehicle that is still covered by the manufacturer's warranty. The details matter, and an attorney can review yours.