A new car purchase, or even a used car purchase, should be an exciting one. But when your dream car ends up becoming a nightmare through ongoing defects, it can become a real problem. Thankfully, California’s Lemon Law comes in to protect car buyers, holding car manufacturers responsible for delivering cars with defects.
If your new car is plagued with recurring mechanical issues, it is useful to know your Lemon Law rights. In this article, we will review what is under protection in Lemon Law, what actions to take when your car seems to qualify, and new information, such as the Chrysler 300C recalls, that can impact owners in your position.
What Is California’s Lemon Law?
The state of California’s Lemon Law, in its Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, protects buyers from a car with a flaw that cannot be repaired by its manufacturer. In case a car has a significant flaw that lessens its value, use, and safety, and its manufacturer cannot remedy it through a fair sequence of attempts, its owner can demand a full refund or a new car.
The act covers both new and previously-owned cars bought or leased in California, but only when under a manufacturer’s warranty. What that practically means is that even a certified pre-owned vehicle with persistent defects can fall under protection under Lemon Law.
Does Your Vehicle Have a Claim Under Lemon Law?
Not all cars with defects constitute a lemon, but in case your car carries any of the following, then your case is strong under Lemon Law:
The Vehicle Carries a Flaw
- The flaw must impair the use, value, or safety of the vehicle.
- Examples include failure of transmission, failure of engine, or failure of electrical system.
The Producer Could Not Repair It
- The producer or seller must have tried two to four times for one and the same issue, in proportion to its severity.
- If the problem poses a serious safety risk (e.g., brake failure, steering issues, or airbag malfunctions), fewer repair attempts may be necessary.
The Vehicle Has Been Out of Use for a Long Duration
- The car can become a lemon if it has been in a shop for 30+ days (but not necessarily in a continuous manner) for its repairs.
The Vehicle Is Under Warranty
- Lemon Law applies to cars under the first manufacturer’s warranty alone.
- Most extended warranties and third-party service contracts don’t apply.
Steps to Take If Your Car Is a Lemon
If you believe your car qualifies for Lemon Law protection, here’s what you should do next:
1. Document All
- Keep complete service histories, invoices, and orders for repairs.
- Document dates and odometer readings at each service stop and any specific complaints filed with the dealership.
2. Request a Reparation Under Warranty
- Make all your car repairs at an approved dealership when your car is under its manufacturer’s warranty.
3. Consult a Lemon Law Lawyer
- If your car continues to have problems following several attempts at fixing it, seek a lawyer for lemon vehicles who handles cases under California Lemon Law.
- An attorney can represent and bargain with the manufacturer and file a claim for a refund or a new vehicle for your sake.
4. Don’t Trade In or Sell Privately
- Selling a car with a flaw can disqualify your protection under the Lemon Law.
- Instead, first try a settlement through legal channels, and then seek alternatives afterward.
Current Chrysler 300C Recalls & Other Manufacturing Defects
Not even renowned brands go unscathed with significant defects in production that lead to recalls. The Chrysler 300C recall is one such case in point, and it is stirring eyebrows over suspected safety concerns in affected cars.
Recalls often address issues that could qualify under Lemon Law if they continue to persist despite multiple repair attempts. If you own a recalled vehicle that has not been properly repaired, you may be eligible for Lemon Law protection.
Why You Should Work with a Lemon Law Attorney
Facing a car manufacturer single-handedly can become intimidating. Manufacturers may deny and even procrastinate in processing Lemon Law claims, and buyers often end up frustrated. That is why having a seasoned car lemon lawyer can become a deciding factor in your case.
How a Lawyer Can Help:
- Case Analysis – Verify your car is qualified under California’s Lemon Law.
- Lawyer Representation – Negotiate with producers on your behalf.
- Max Out Reimbursement – Get a car substitution, cash payment, or a refund.
Final Thoughts
If your new car or used car continues to have persistent mechanical faults that cannot be repaired, then your case can fall under the Lemon Law. Familiarity with your legal options and acting with urgency can allow you to obtain a full refund or a new car.
If your car is suspected to be a lemon, don’t procrastinate—seek a car lemon lawyer today. And, in case your car happens to be a Chrysler 300C, make a point to scan current recall notices to see if your car is included.
By being proactive and staying in the loop, you can protect your investment and enjoy a safer, less stressful drive.
William Gall is a seasoned attorney specializing in civil litigation and family law. With a legal career spanning over two decades, William has built a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to justice. In addition to practicing law, he is a prolific writer, contributing regularly to various legal blogs where he shares his insights on current legal trends, case law, and best practices. His articles are well-regarded in the legal community for their thorough research and practical advice, making complex legal concepts accessible to both legal professionals and the general public.