When your Cadillac qualifies under California Lemon Law, it means you are eligible for protections if your vehicle encounters ongoing defects that affect its value along with the ability to be used and driven safely. Pursuing a lemon law claim may be challenging, especially due to the strict deadlines, manufacturer negotiations, and documentation of repairs and service history.
At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our knowledgeable lemon law attorneys will help evaluate whether your Cadillac is considered a defective vehicle and if it meets the criteria to prepare and file a lemon law case. With legal representation, you can pursue remedies, ensuring you recover costs pertaining to your vehicle and the problems it presents.
For a FREE consultation, you can connect with us by calling (213) 927-3700 or filling out our easy online contact form.
Understanding Cadillac Lemon Law Protections
Cadillac vehicles are known for luxury and advanced technology, but just like other gas-powered or electric cars, they can encounter ongoing defects. California Lemon Law protects owners and lessees when a vehicle comes across a persistent issue that cannot be fixed within a reasonable number of attempts. Eligible individuals may be entitled to a replacement vehicle, cash settlement, or a buyback.
What Vehicles Are Covered Under Cadillac Lemon Law
Cadillac lemon law applies to a wide variety of vehicles, not just the new ones. This will be effective towards new cars, used vehicles that are still under the manufacturer’s warranty at the time of purchase, and leased vehicles with warranty coverage. Such protections may also apply to the demonstrator and dealer-owned vehicles that are sold with a warranty. Certain business-use vehicles may also be eligible if they meet weight and fleet-size requirements. As long as the Cadillac has a valid manufacturer’s warranty when the issue initially appeared, consumers will be covered whether they purchased or leased the vehicle.
How to Tell if Your Cadillac Is a Lemon
A Cadillac can be classified as a lemon if it has notable issues that impact the overall safety and use of the vehicle, and it diminishes its value. Warning signs to look out for include the following:
- Ongoing engine issues
- Transmission failures
- Electrical errors
- Recurring brake and steering problems
Under the Tanner Consumer Protection Act, a manufacturer has a reasonable opportunity to resolve a defect in a new motor vehicle if conditions take place within 18 months of delivery or 18,000, whichever comes first. The amount of repair attempts that are considered reasonable will vary depending on the nature of the situation.
For cases where the same defect can cause death or serious injury, there must have been at least two tries, whereas issues that are not necessarily dangerous may involve four instances in which an authorized manufacturer or its agents have tried to fix the triggering factor. In addition, if your case has been left in the shop for 30 or more days and the defect has yet to be resolved, you may be entitled to pursue a claim (CIV § 1793.22).
Common Defects in Cadillac Vehicles That May Qualify
Not every complication with a Cadillac will fall under Lemon Law protections. However, recurring problems that tamper with safety, use, or lead to a diminished value may qualify. Owners have reported mechanical, electrical, and performance-related defects that have yet to be fixed even after numerous repair attempts. When such issues continue despite ongoing services, the law may step in to make sure drivers are not left with an unreliable vehicle. Below are a few popular models that have come across some notable errors or defects.
Cadillac SRX
The Cadillac SRX has received various complaints, with most users encountering lighting problems. Water leaking into the headlights (contributing to reduced visibility), electrical malfunctions, and pricey repairs are other factors that have been mentioned. The 2010 SRX model, in particular, was given the largest number of dissatisfaction for high-priced maintenance costs, issues arising at low mileage, and for water in lights. These issues alone can contribute to a variety of accidents while on the road.
Cadillac CTS
The Cadillac CTS has encountered several reports by owners, primarily with engine problems. While the 2003 CRS has the highest number of complaints, the 2009 edition is seen as more problematic due to costly repair fees and issues arising at lower mileage. One of the most notable problems users have experienced with this model is the rear bezel cover falling off, affecting the vehicle’s appearance and functionality.
Cadillac DeVille
The Cadillac DeVille has presented a range of issues, with engine problems being the most common. The 2001 DeVille, specifically, stands out from the rest as it has the highest number of complaints and also due to pricey maintenance and, once again, problems appearing at relatively low mileage. A common issue that has been shared is the engine burning oil, which can impact performance and contributes to potential long-term engine damage.
How to File a Cadillac Lemon Law Claim
If you purchased or leased a Cadillac that has ongoing defects covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, you may receive protection under California Lemon Law. You will first need to document the situation. Take note of when it initially started and the number of repair attempts made by the dealership. Be sure to maintain all service records, invoices, and correspondence.
You will then have to reach out to the dealer in writing, explaining the recurring defect your vehicle is experiencing. You should allow them to have a reasonable opportunity to fix it. If complications persist despite repeated services, you can connect with a lemon law attorney for guidance and support. They will help negotiate a suitable remedy to ensure you are given satisfactory results.
How Long Do You Have to File a Cadillac Lemon Law Claim?
Under AB 1755, you will need to file your claim within one year after your vehicle’s express warranty expires, and no later than six years from the vehicle’s original delivery date. Prior to seeking civil penalties, you must provide written notice demanding restitution or replacement. Mediation will also be required prior to full discovery. Courts may issue sanctions on parties who do not comply. Try to have this process completed in a timely manner and maintain significant records as these factors can help improve your chances of securing a successful outcome.
Does Lemon Law Apply to Used Cars?
Lemon Law can apply to certain used cars. In late 2024, the California Supreme Court ruled that most of them, even those that were sold with an active manufacturer’s warranty, would not be eligible for protections. But, there are a few exceptions:
- Certified Pre-Owned vehicles: A used vehicle that has been inspected and refurbished, being resold with a new warranty effective at the date of sale.
- Demonstrator models: A car used for customer test drives or by dealership staff, sold as “new” with a manufacturer warranty coverage included.
- Dealer-owned cars: A vehicle owned and used by the dealership that is later sold with a manufacturer warranty at the time of sale.
What Compensation Can Cadillac Lemon Law Provide?
Cadillac owners who have a lemon car may be entitled to several types of compensation:
- Buyback (repurchase): Cadillac will refund your purchase price (taxes, registration, and official fees with a deduction for mileage before the defect initially appeared).
- Replacement vehicle: Cadillac offers a similar new vehicle at no extra cost with full warranty coverage included.
- Cash settlement: You can keep your car and negotiate cash payment for the reduced value, repair history, and other related expenses.
- Incidental expenses: Reimbursement for costs associated with the defect (out-of-pocket repairs and towing).
- Civil Penalties: If Cadillac fails to comply with the law, you may receive up to twice your actual damages in additional penalties.
- Attorney’s fees and costs: Cadillac must cover your legal fees, meaning you do not have to pay out-of-pocket to pursue legal action (CIV § 1794(d)).
Why Work With a Cadillac Lemon Law Attorney
Working with a Cadillac lemon law attorney can make a big difference with the outcome of your case. Such claims may involve complex regulations, strict deadlines, and potential pushbacks from auto manufacturers who are attempting to minimize your payout.
Seeking legal representation from the wrong lemon lawyer, however, can lead to mistakes. Deadlines could be surpassed or documents may not be maintained properly, the list goes on. But, with the help of an experienced attorney, they will gather evidence, submit important files within a reasonable timeframe, communicate with the manufacturer on your behalf, and push to get you the best possible outcome, whether that is a buyback, replacement, cash settlement, or civil penalties.
In addition, California Lemon Law requires the manufacturer to cover attorney’s fees if you win, meaning legal services will come at no direct cost. Having an experienced attorney on your side will not only help you build a stronger case against the opposing party, but will also help ensure your rights are protected all throughout your lemon law case.
Do You Believe You Have a Defective Cadillac? Contact West Coast Trial Lawyers Today for Legal Assistance
If your Cadillac model continues to deal with the same problem, it is time to take legal action. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our specialized team of lemon law attorneys will fight on your behalf to help you secure a fair buyback, replacement vehicle, or cash settlement. With our guidance and support, you can move forward and put this situation all behind you while you get back on the road with confidence.
To schedule a FREE consultation, you can reach out to us by calling (213) 927-3700 or completing our convenient online contact form.
