How Long Does a Lemon Law Case Take in California?

Typical Timeline: What to Expect

• Fast-track settlement: 30–60 days
• Standard negotiation: 2–6 months
• Litigation or arbitration: 6–18+ months

How long your case takes depends on several factors—such as how clear the defect is, how many repair attempts were made, and whether the manufacturer pushes back or cooperates.

Step-by-Step Timeline Overview

1. Free Legal Consultation (1–3 Days): A lawyer evaluates whether your vehicle qualifies under the California Lemon Law (Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, Cal. Civ. Code §1793.2).
2. Document Gathering (3–14 Days): Collect repair orders, warranties, purchase contracts, and a written timeline of events.
3. Demand Letter to Manufacturer (1–2 Weeks): Your attorney sends a formal demand seeking replacement or refund.
4. Manufacturer Response (2–12 Weeks): Most settle in this stage. If not, the case moves forward.
5. Filing Lawsuit (If Needed): If negotiation fails, your attorney may file suit. The case may take 6–18 months to resolve through court or arbitration.

Real Example: Fast Lemon Law Win

In 2023, a client purchased a hybrid SUV with repeated battery failure. Despite three repairs, the issue persisted. We filed a demand, and the manufacturer settled in 7 weeks. The client received a $4,300 refund plus registration reimbursement—all without going to court.

What Slows Things Down?

• Missing or incomplete repair records
• Unclear proof that defect affects vehicle use/safety/value
• Delays in manufacturer response or refusal to negotiate
• Cases that require expert inspections or litigation

How to Avoid Delays

Speed up your Lemon Law case by:

• Saving all repair orders and warranty info
• Requesting a “final repair attempt” and documenting it
• Acting quickly—California’s statute of limitations is 4 years from the first warranty breach
• Contacting a Lemon Law attorney as early as possible

FAQ: Lemon Law Timelines

What’s the fastest a Lemon Law case can resolve?

Some settle in as little as 30 days with proper documentation and a cooperative manufacturer.

Do I need to go to court?

Most cases settle without court. However, some require arbitration or litigation if the manufacturer denies your claim.

How long do I have to file?

Four years from the first breach of warranty. Don’t wait—timing matters.

What damages can I recover?

Refund of your down payment and monthly payments, plus taxes, registration fees, and sometimes civil penalties and attorney fees.

Feeling Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone.

Waiting on a Lemon Law claim can be frustrating. Take a moment to breathe with us:

Next Step: Let’s Talk

You don’t need to handle this alone. We’ll fight for your refund, replacement, or compensation—with no upfront cost. Reach out today for a free, no-pressure consultation.