If you’ve recently purchased or leased a vehicle and found it to be riddled with defects, you may be asking yourself, "What is the Lemon Law in California?" Understanding your rights under this law is critical, especially when it comes to protecting yourself from faulty vehicles that simply don't live up to expectations. The Lemon Law in California provides an essential safety net for consumers, ensuring that they aren’t stuck with defective cars that undermine their investment and safety.

At Law Lemon Pros, we are here to guide you through the process and provide you with the legal support you need to hold car manufacturers accountable for the products they sell. In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about the Lemon Law in California, from how it applies to Lemon Law vehicles to how you can take action if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation.

What is the Lemon Law in California?
The California Lemon Law, formally known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, is a consumer protection law designed to help people who purchase or lease vehicles that develop significant defects. Under this law, if your car has substantial issues that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a refund or a replacement vehicle.

The law applies to both new and used vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even certain RVs. The defects must significantly impair the use, value, or safety of the vehicle. In simple terms, if your car is a "lemon," the Lemon Law is here to help you take action and receive compensation.

When Does a Vehicle Qualify as a Lemon Under California Law?
For a vehicle to qualify as a Lemon Law vehicle in California, it must meet certain criteria. These include:
The Vehicle Must Have a Substantial Defect: A defect is considered "substantial" if it impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle. For example, engine failures, transmission problems, or brake malfunctions can qualify as substantial defects.

Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: The manufacturer or dealership must have had a reasonable number of chances to fix the defect. Typically, this means that the car has been in the shop for repairs multiple times for the same issue, or the issue has been present for an extended period.

Timeframe: The defects must be reported and addressed within a reasonable timeframe after purchase or lease. In California, you have 18 months or 18,000 miles (whichever comes first) to bring a claim under the Lemon Law.

Manufacturer’s Warranty: The vehicle must be covered under the manufacturer's warranty when the defect occurs. If the warranty has expired, the Lemon Law protections may not apply.

Types of Defects Covered by the Lemon Law
The California Lemon Law covers a wide range of defects that affect the performance and safety of a vehicle. Some of the most common defects that may qualify for a Lemon Law claim include:
Engine Problems: If your car’s engine stalls or has persistent issues that prevent it from starting or running efficiently.


Transmission Issues: These are often difficult to fix and can affect how your car shifts gears, making it unsafe to drive.
Electrical Problems: Faulty wiring or malfunctions in the electrical system can lead to unexpected breakdowns or dangerous situations.
Brake Failures: If your vehicle’s brakes fail to function properly, this is not only a safety concern but also a critical issue under the Lemon Law.
Airbag Defects: If your airbags are defective and won’t deploy in an accident, this is a serious safety concern that can qualify for Lemon Law protection.
Suspension and Steering Issues: Problems with steering, suspension, or alignment can affect the handling of your vehicle, making it unsafe to drive.

The Lemon Law Claim Process: How Law Lemon Pros Can Help
If you believe you’ve purchased a Lemon Law vehicle in California, the next step is to pursue a claim under the state’s Lemon Law. Here's a breakdown of the process:
Document the Defect: Start by keeping detailed records of the defect, including repair invoices, communication with the dealership or manufacturer, and any relevant documents that show the defect and repair attempts. This will serve as the foundation of your case.

Allow the Dealer or Manufacturer to Repair the Vehicle: The law requires you to give the dealership or manufacturer a reasonable number of chances to fix the defect. This typically means that the car should be brought in for repair multiple times for the same issue.

Consult with an Attorney: If the manufacturer or dealership fails to fix the problem after a reasonable number of attempts, it’s time to consult with a Lemon Law attorney. Law Lemon Pros specializes in helping clients navigate this process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Filing a Lemon Law Claim: Once the necessary documentation has been gathered, your attorney can file a claim on your behalf. If the manufacturer or dealership is found liable, you may be entitled to a refund or a replacement vehicle, depending on the circumstances.

Settlement or Court Judgment: Most Lemon Law cases are settled outside of court, but in some instances, a court trial may be necessary. Either way, our expert attorneys at Law Lemon Pros are here to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome.

Why You Need a Lemon Law Attorney
Dealing with a defective vehicle can be stressful, especially when the dealership or manufacturer is reluctant to take responsibility for their faulty product. Law Lemon Pros can help you navigate the legal complexities of the Lemon Law and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Here’s why you need an attorney:

Experience with the Legal Process: Lemon Law claims can be tricky, and the process often involves dealing with large corporations and their legal teams. Having an experienced attorney on your side will help ensure that your claim is handled properly.

No Upfront Fees: At Law Lemon Pros, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This removes any financial stress and allows you to focus on resolving the issue.

Maximized Compensation: Our team is dedicated to getting you the best outcome, whether that means a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation.

Peace of Mind: Navigating the Lemon Law on your own can be overwhelming, but with an experienced attorney guiding you through the process, you can rest easy knowing that your claim is in good hands.


Protect Your Rights and Get the Justice You Deserve
If you’ve encountered a Lemon Law vehicle, don’t wait to take action. The sooner you address the issue, the better your chances of getting a favorable outcome. At Law Lemon Pros, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you get the justice you deserve.

If you suspect your vehicle is a lemon, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation. Our team is ready to assist you every step of the way, ensuring that your claim is handled efficiently and professionally.

Conclusion: Don’t Settle for a Defective Car
If you’re dealing with a defective car that’s causing you frustration and financial strain, the California Lemon Law is here to protect you. By understanding the law and working with an experienced Lemon Law attorney, you can ensure that your rights are upheld and that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
Law Lemon Pros is here to help you with your Lemon Law claim. Whether you're dealing with Lemon Law vehicles or any other type of car defect, we are your trusted partner in ensuring justice is served.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights!