What Is California’s Lemon Law?
The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (California Civil Code §§ 1792.1–1793.22) protects consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles. If your new or used car (under warranty) cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may be eligible for compensation—including a refund or replacement vehicle.
Does Your Car Qualify?
- Vehicle is primarily for personal, family, or household use
- Purchased or leased in California
- Covered by a manufacturer’s warranty
- Defect impairs use, value, or safety
- Manufacturer failed to fix the problem after a reasonable number of attempts
Common Examples of Lemon Law Cases
- Repeated brake failure
- Transmission defects
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Steering issues
- Engine stalling or overheating
Step-by-Step: How to File a Lemon Law Claim
- Document the Problem: Keep detailed repair invoices and notes from every visit to the dealership or mechanic.
- Final Repair Attempt: Give the manufacturer one last chance to fix the issue (written request recommended).
- Request a Buyback or Replacement: Contact the manufacturer to request Lemon Law relief—refund or vehicle replacement.
- File a Complaint: You may pursue arbitration (voluntary) or file a civil lawsuit.
- Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney: Legal representation strengthens your case and increases your chance of maximum recovery.
Lemon Law Document Checklist
- Purchase or lease agreement
- Repair orders and receipts
- Manufacturer’s warranty documents
- Correspondence with the dealership or manufacturer
- Odometer readings at each repair
California Lemon Law Deadlines
You must file your claim within four years of the date you knew (or should have known) your vehicle was a lemon. Don’t wait—missing the deadline can cost you your rights.
What Can You Recover?
- Refund of purchase price (minus a mileage offset)
- Replacement vehicle of equal value
- Incidental costs (registration, taxes, towing)
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
FAQ
- Do I have to go through arbitration?
- No. Arbitration is voluntary under California’s Lemon Law.
- Can I file a claim for a used car?
- Yes, if it’s still under the manufacturer’s warranty and meets Lemon Law criteria.
- How many repair attempts qualify?
- Typically two or more for a serious safety defect, or four or more for less serious issues.
- Will I owe money if I lose?
- No. WCTL works on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win.
- What if my warranty expired?
- You may still qualify if the issues occurred while the warranty was active. Speak to a lawyer.
Need Help? We’re Here for You
If your car feels like a ticking time bomb, don’t wait for another breakdown. Contact West Coast Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation. We’ve helped clients recover thousands in Lemon Law claims—and we’re ready to help you too.
