California Lemon Law: Your Complete Guide to Protecting Your Rights

If you’ve ever driven off the lot in a brand-new vehicle only to discover it’s cursed with problems, you’re not alone. Mechanical defects, safety issues, and endless trips to the dealership can turn excitement into frustration fast. Fortunately, California’s Lemon Law gives you powerful rights when your new (or even used) vehicle isn’t living up to the promises made.

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we believe every car buyer deserves a reliable vehicle — and if yours doesn’t deliver, you shouldn’t have to pay the price. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Lemon Laws in California, how it protects you, and what you can do if you’ve been sold a lemon.

What Is California’s Lemon Law?

California’s Lemon Law, officially part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (California Civil Code § 1793.2) and bolstered by the Tanner Consumer Protection Act, gives consumers the right to a refund, replacement, or cash settlement when a manufacturer fails to fix a defective vehicle after a reasonable number of attempts.

In short: if your vehicle can’t be repaired under warranty after multiple tries, California law says you shouldn’t be stuck with it. These laws don’t just apply to cars — motorcycles, trucks, RVs, and sometimes even boats can be covered, depending on the circumstances.

Who and What Does California’s Lemon Law Cover?

Vehicles Covered

• New cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans
  
• Used vehicles still under a manufacturer’s warranty
  
• Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles with a warranty
  
• Leased vehicles
  

Note: Cars purchased “as-is” without any warranty typically aren’t covered — but other protections may apply in cases of fraud.

Consumers Protected

• Individual buyers
  
• Certain small businesses (with fewer than five vehicles registered)
  
• Lessees under warranty
  

If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, reach out to our team at West Coast Trial Lawyers — a quick conversation could save you months of stress.

Consumer Rights Under the Lemon Law

 

California’s Lemon Law grants clear and enforceable rights to consumers affected by defective vehicles.

The Right to Repair

Manufacturers must be given a reasonable opportunity to repair the defect. This requirement ensures fairness but also protects the consumer by not forcing endless repair attempts without resolution.

The Right to Replacement or Refund

If repairs are unsuccessful, consumers have the right to demand:

• A replacement vehicle that is substantially identical to the original, or
  
• A refund of the purchase price, including incidental costs like registration, taxes, towing, and rental expenses.
  

Additionally, any outstanding auto loan or lease balance must be addressed as part of the refund. Knowing these rights enables consumers to assert their legal entitlements confidently when dealing with defective vehicles.

What Qualifies a Vehicle as a Lemon?

Not every car problem is going to be defined as a lemon. In order for a vehicle to qualify under California’s Lemon Law the defect must showcase the following:

• The defect must substantially impair the car’s use, value, or safety.
  
• The defect must persist after a reasonable number of repair attempts.
  
• The vehicle must still be under the manufacturer’s express warranty.
  

Examples of common qualifying defects:

• Brake failure
  
• Transmission problems
  
• Steering malfunctions
  
• Persistent engine issues
  
• Electrical failures
  
• Safety system malfunctions (like airbags)
  

And remember — if your vehicle has been in the shop for more than 30 cumulative days for repairs, it may qualify automatically under certain circumstances. Should lemon law victims wish to find the exact guidelines, they will be listed under California Civil Code § 1793.22.

Important Note on Statute of Limitations

According to the recently enacted California Assembly Bill 1755, the statute of limitations for filing Lemon Law claims is one year after the warranty expires, or up to six years from the original purchase or lease date—whichever occurs first. However, vehicles with extended warranties do not qualify due to the amount of time consumers are given. This recent change underscores the importance of acting quickly and documenting thoroughly.

How the California Lemon Law Process Works

If you think you have a lemon, timing and documentation are everything.

Step 1: Document Everything

• Save all repair invoices.
  
• Keep a log of each visit, including the dates, problems reported, and repairs attempted.
  
• Communicate in writing when possible.

Step 2: Notify the Manufacturer

Give the manufacturer a reasonable chance to fix the issue. Some cases even require a formal written notice. If they fail to resolve the defect, you’re entitled to remedies.

Step 3: Demand a Remedy

You can request either:

• A replacement vehicle (similar model and features)
  
• A full refund (including taxes, registration, and incidentals)
  

California law even requires the manufacturer to pay your attorney’s fees if you win— meaning you can fight back without worrying about huge legal bills. Curious about your first steps? Visit the California Department of Consumer Affairs’ guide for official state information.

Key Benefits of Pursuing a Lemon Law Claim

• Cost Recovery: Get back what you paid — including interest, registration fees, and repair costs.
  
• No Risk: In most cases, manufacturers are required to pay your legal fees if you win.
  
• Peace of Mind: Move on from a defective vehicle without financial hardship.
  

Many consumers don’t realize how strong their rights are. That’s why having knowledgeable attorneys makes all the difference.

Why Choose West Coast Trial Lawyers for Your Lemon Law Claim?

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we are committed to providing the highest level of legal representation to consumers facing car defects. 

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Best-in-Class Representation:
  Our team includes Harvard Law graduates and former federal prosecutors who bring unmatched skill and insight to every case. We have successfully taken on — and beaten — some of the world’s largest corporations on behalf of our clients.
  
• White Glove Service:
  When you work with us, you’ll have direct access to your attorney — not just a case manager. Plus, our in-house trial team gives us a major advantage when it comes to preparing your case for maximum recovery.
  
• Trusted and Respected:
  National news organizations regularly turn to West Coast Trial Lawyers for expert legal analysis, a testament to the reputation and respect we’ve earned in the legal community.
  
• No Fees Unless We Win:
  We believe everyone deserves top-tier legal representation without worrying about cost. That’s why we offer free consultations and never charge upfront fees. Our payment is a pre-agreed percentage of any recovery we obtain for you — meaning you pay nothing out-of-pocket.
  
• A Proven Track Record:
  Our attorneys have recovered millions for clients across California, fighting tirelessly to protect their rights and secure the compensation they deserve.
  

Don’t waste another day driving a car that doesn’t deliver.  Call us for a FREE case review at (213) 927-3700 or reach out via this quick online contact form and let’s make it right.