Is It a Lemon? – Common Issues Found in Ford Models

When drivers purchase a new vehicle, they expect reliability, safety, and value. Unfortunately, not every car meets those expectations. Ford has faced persistent concerns from consumers who report repeated mechanical failures and defects across various models. These defects not only cause frustration but may also qualify the vehicle as a lemon under California law.

If you are struggling with ongoing Ford issues, it is critical to know your legal rights and options. At The Barry Law Firm, we focus on helping California drivers who are stuck with defective vehicles. We can determine whether your Ford’s defect makes it a lemon and explain how an experienced Lemon Law attorney from our firm can help.

Common Issues Found in Ford Vehicles

For years, consumers have raised complaints about problems with Ford vehicles ranging from minor annoyances to significant safety hazards. Some of the most frequently reported issues include:

Transmission Problems

Perhaps the most widely discussed defect in Ford vehicles involves faulty transmissions. Ford’s dual-clutch “PowerShift” transmission, used in models like the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus, has been the subject of lawsuits and thousands of consumer complaints. Drivers often report shuddering, slipping, hesitation, or sudden loss of power.

Power Steering Failures

Loss of power steering assistance has been reported in models such as the Ford Fusion and Ford Edge. These failures can lead to hazardous driving conditions, making it challenging to control the vehicle at low speeds or during turns.

Engine and Stalling Concerns

Many Ford owners have experienced problems with engines that overheat, stall unexpectedly, or suffer from coolant leaks. For example, certain EcoBoost engines in models ranging from the Ford Fusion to the Ford Mustang have been linked to recurring engine failures.

Electrical System Defects

Some Ford models experience electrical issues, ranging from faulty sensors to malfunctioning infotainment systems. Defects in wiring or control modules may lead to erratic performance, warning lights, or sudden system shutdowns.

Brake System Complaints

Several Ford vehicles, including SUVs and trucks, have been reported to experience premature brake wear or failures in their electronic brake booster systems. These defects can increase stopping distances and put drivers at risk.

When Is a Ford Considered a Lemon?

While some of these common Ford quality problems can be easily fixed, others are more persistent. Luckily, California’s Lemon Law is one of the country’s strongest consumer protection laws. If your Ford vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you can file a Lemon Law claim to demand that Ford buy the defective vehicle back and compensate you for what you spent on it.

A Ford may be considered a lemon if it meets the following conditions:

• The vehicle has a substantial defect that affects its use, value, or safety,
• The problem is covered under the original manufacturer’s warranty and starts while the warranty is still active, and:
• The manufacturer or an authorized dealership has made a reasonable number of repair attempts without resolving the issue.

What counts as a “reasonable number” depends on the circumstances. Generally, if your Ford has been in the shop multiple times for the same defect or has been out of service for an excessive amount of time, it may qualify.

If a defect creates a serious safety risk, California Lemon Law generally considers two or more repair attempts to be reasonable. For less critical problems, however, the manufacturer may be allowed additional opportunities to correct the issue.

What If I Think My Ford Is a Lemon?

If you suspect that your Ford is a lemon, documentation is key. Keeping detailed records of every repair visit, invoice, and communication with the authorized dealership can strengthen your claim. Here are some critical steps to take:

• Report the issue early. Always notify the authorized dealership as soon as a problem occurs. This ensures the defect is recorded while the vehicle is under its original warranty.
• Keep copies of repair orders. Each time you bring the vehicle in, request and save written documentation. These records show the number of attempts and the nature of the defect.
• Track days out of service. If your Ford spends several days or weeks at the authorized dealership waiting for parts or repeated repairs, note those dates. Time lost can be an essential factor in proving your claim.
• Save all receipts and invoices. You can seek compensation for your losses related to your defective Ford in a Lemon Law claim, including towing, repair, and alternative transportation costs. Keep any records of these expenses to support your claim.
• Consult a Lemon Law attorney. Even if you have doubts about whether your case qualifies, an attorney can evaluate your situation and guide you through the next steps.

How Can a California Lemon Law Attorney Help My Case?

Dealing with a manufacturer can be intimidating. Automakers often have legal teams dedicated to limiting their liability and discouraging claims. Working with a skilled Lemon Law attorney levels the playing field and ensures your rights are protected.

Your Lemon Law attorney can:

• Evaluate whether your recurring Ford issues qualify under the Lemon Law
• Assemble evidence of your repair history and the defect’s impact on your vehicle’s safety, use, or value
• File your Lemon Law claim and handle the entire process from start to finish
• Negotiate directly with Ford on your behalf
• Take your case to court if the manufacturer refuses to provide fair compensation

California’s Lemon Law requires Ford to cover your attorney’s fees if your case is successful. And at The Barry Law Firm, we won’t charge you anything for our services, no matter the outcome of your case. That means you can pursue your rights without the financial burden of legal costs.

The Barry Law Firm Is Ready to Help!

Since 2010, The Barry Law Firm has focused exclusively on California’s Lemon Law, building a proven record of success against major auto manufacturers. Our attorneys have helped thousands of California consumers who were ignored or mistreated by automakers and dealers, securing the compensation and relief they deserved.

If you are dealing with ongoing warranty-covered problems with your Ford vehicle, whether it is a defective transmission, recurring engine failure, repeated electrical issues, or any other serious issue, you do not have to face the manufacturer alone. At The Barry Law Firm, we protect California consumers against automakers who fail to honor their obligations.

Our Lemon Law lawyers understand how frustrating it can be to spend thousands of dollars on a new car only to have it spend more time in the shop than on the road. Our team is experienced in handling cases involving Ford models and other lemon cars, and we fight aggressively to help our clients demand the justice they deserve.

Do not wait. The longer you delay, the more difficult it can become to prove your case. If you suspect your Ford is a lemon or are having recurrent Ford issues while under warranty, call us now or reach out online for a FAST & FREE case evaluation to determine whether you have a Lemon Law claim.