If you’ve ever found yourself with a car that spends more time in the shop than on the road, you might have wondered if there’s any legal protection for your situation. That’s where the California Lemon Law comes in—a lifeline for consumers stuck with defective vehicles. Let’s break it down easily so you know your rights and how to take action.
What Does the California Lemon Law Cover?
The California Lemon Law, also known as Civil Code Section 1793.22, protects buyers of new vehicles primarily used for personal, family, or household purposes. The law even covers the chassis portion of motorhomes!
To qualify, your vehicle must:
- Be under the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Have a defect or issue that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety.
The 30-Day Rule: How Long Is Too Long?
Here’s the nitty-gritty of the law:
- If your vehicle has been out of service for repairs for 30 calendar days (not necessarily consecutive) within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles, it might qualify as a lemon.
- Alternatively, if the same issue has required:
- Two repair attempts for a defect that could cause serious injury or death.
- Four or more repair attempts for less severe issues.
When these thresholds are met, the manufacturer may be obligated to refund your money, replace your car, or offer compensation.
What If My Vehicle Doesn’t Qualify?
Even if your vehicle doesn’t meet the strict Lemon Law criteria, all hope isn’t lost. Other laws, like the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or the Truth in Lending Act, might provide alternative paths to compensation.
These laws could help you recover diminished value, pay for repairs, or even trade out your vehicle. A skilled attorney can guide you through the options.
How Can Lemon Fixers Help Me?
Navigating lemon law claims can be tricky, but that’s where Lemon Fixers comes in! We handle the heavy lifting:
- Evaluating your case for free.
- Connecting you with experienced California lemon law attorneys.
- Ensuring you don’t pay any upfront costs—most cases are handled on a contingency basis.
Ready to say goodbye to your lemon? Let Lemon Fixers help you hit the road in a car you can count on. Connect with us today for a free, no-obligation case review, and let’s turn your lemonade
