The 5 Most Common Vehicle Defects in California Lemon Law Claims

Buying a new car should be a celebration—not a disaster waiting to happen. Unfortunately, thousands of new car owners each year are stuck with defective vehicles that spend more time in the shop than on the road. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we’ve helped countless clients enforce their rights under California’s strong Lemon Law protections. Based on real cases we’ve handled, five types of vehicle defects appear over and over.

Let’s break down the most common issues that lead to Lemon Law claims—and what you can do if you’re dealing with one.

1. Engine Problems

Nothing kills the new car excitement faster than engine trouble. Whether it’s stalling at red lights, struggling to start, or burning oil like crazy, engine defects are serious—and common.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), engine-related complaints account for about 25% of major auto recalls annually. In fact some of the most common engine defects that are seen include:

• Engine misfires
• Oil leaks and excessive oil consumption
• Overheating
• Sudden loss of power

If repeated trips to the dealership haven’t solved your engine problems, you may have a strong Lemon Law case.

2. Transmission Failures

Transmission problems are another heavy hitter when it comes to Lemon Law claims. When your car jerks, struggles to shift gears, or won’t move at all, it’s more than frustrating—it’s dangerous.

In California, a transmission replacement can easily run between $4,000 and $8,000. Many clients tell us the dealer keeps making updates and repairs without solving the real problem.

Red flags include:

• Hard or delayed shifting
• Gear slipping
• Strange clunking noises
• Warning lights that won’t clear

Multiple repair attempts without success? It’s time to consider your legal rights.

3. Electrical System Glitches

Modern vehicles are packed with tech—from backup cameras to blind spot monitors—but these high-tech features come with new headaches. Electrical system failures are now among the top complaints in J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study. Some of the most common problems that are seen are things like:

• Flickering or dead dashboard displays
• Malfunctioning infotainment and navigation systems
• Battery drains and charging issues
• Power window, lock, and light malfunctions

Intermittent electrical issues can be tough to diagnose but dangerous if left unresolved. If your dealership keeps brushing it off, Lemon Law may step in to help.

4. Brake System Defects

Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. As such, brake defects aren’t just inconvenient—they’re a major safety hazard that could cause a serious accident such as a traumatic brain injury or a spinal cord injury. According to NHTSA data, brake failures contribute to about 22% of vehicle defect-related crashes.

If your vehicle is exhibiting any of the following malfunctions, it could potentially lead to a severe traffic accident. In addition, should your braking issues remain unresolved after multiple repair attempts, you could have a valid Lemon Law claim under California law.

• Premature brake pad or rotor wear
• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) malfunctions
• Brake fluid leaks
• Soft or spongy brake pedals

5. Steering and Suspension Failures

If your car pulls to one side, clunks over bumps, or feels unstable at high speeds, you could be dealing with steering or suspension problems—both critical for safe handling.

Look out for:

• Loose steering wheels
• Strange noises when turning
• Excessive bouncing after bumps
• Uneven tire wear

Handling issues can quickly turn dangerous, especially on winding highways and busy freeways.

California’s Lemon Law—and New Changes You Need to Know

California’s Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, gives consumers powerful protections when they buy or lease a defective vehicle. If a substantial defect impacts your vehicle’s use, value, or safety—and the dealership or manufacturer can’t fix it after a reasonable number of tries—you may be entitled to:

• A full refund
• A replacement vehicle
• Reimbursement for rental cars, towing, and other expenses
• Payment of your attorney’s fees

Important Update: New Time Limits Under Assembly Bill 1755

A new California law (Assembly Bill 1755) has changed the statute of limitations for filing Lemon Law claims with regards to certain manufacturers, and it’s critical for consumers to understand:

• You must file your Lemon Law claim within one year after your warranty expires.
• Regardless, no claim can be filed more than six years after you first took delivery of the vehicle.

This is a big shift from past rules. Under the old system, consumers had more time to file based on general breach-of-warranty statutes. Now, the clock is ticking faster. It is advisable to consult with an attorney immediately to see which set of rules applies to your claim.

What this means for you:
If you suspect you have a lemon, it’s more important than ever to act quickly. Waiting too long could cost you your right to recover.

Bonus Tip:
Starting in 2025, for certain manufacturers, AB 1755 will also require sending a written notice to the manufacturer before filing for civil penalties and participating in mandatory mediation—another reason to seek legal advice early.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Car is a Lemon?

1. Document Every Problem
   Keep detailed records of every service visit, what was done, and what you reported.
2. Don’t Settle for “It’s Normal”
   Push back if the dealership tells you chronic issues are “normal”—they often aren’t.
3. Consult a Lemon Law Expert
   Navigating Lemon Law claims without professional help can be risky. Our Lemon Law attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers handle everything from start to finish—and the manufacturer pays our fees if we win.

Why West Coast Trial Lawyers?

Our firm has successfully recovered millions for clients dealing with lemons. We know California’s Lemon Law inside and out, and we don’t get paid unless you win. Whether it’s your engine, transmission, brakes, or electronics that are failing, you have rights—and we’re ready to fight for you.

Think You’ve Got a Lemon?

Contact West Coast Trial Lawyers today (213) 927-3700 or reach out via this quick online contact form for a free consultation and let’s get you back on the road—with a car you can trust.