That new car of yours sure is a beauty, but the amount of time it spends in the shop has gotten out of hand. It seems like every other day brings a new problem with this vehicle, and the dealership’s repairs haven’t resolved them.
It may be time to consider whether your new car is a lemon.
California’s Lemon Law says motor vehicle manufacturers must buy back or replace a vehicle if the owner has been unable to repair significant problems under warranty in a reasonable number of attempts. At The Barry Law Firm, we’ve helped thousands of California consumers recover the funds they’ve put into faulty motor vehicles. We urge you to contact us for a free case evaluation with a Lemon Law attorney if you’ve spent too much time dealing with unresolved problems covered by your car’s original warranty.
Let an experienced attorney determine whether you have a valid Lemon Law claim. Keep reading to learn about five frequently encountered car issues that might qualify for a Lemon Law case in California.
What Does California’s Lemon Law Cover?
California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act says a motor vehicle is a lemon if a defect that significantly impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety and is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty proves to be unrepairable after a reasonable number of attempts.
A consumer may require the manufacturer to buy back a lemon or replace it with a similar vehicle.
A lemon law claim typically requires a lawsuit. Before filing a suit, the consumer must notify the manufacturer and give them one more try to resolve their vehicle’s problems.
At The Barry Law Firm, our Lemon Law attorneys help California consumers hold car manufacturers accountable and get their money back or their vehicle replaced when they have been sold a defective vehicle. Our Lemon Law attorneys can help you navigate the requirements of California’s Lemon Law and present an effective claim.
Top 5 Frequent Lemon Law Car Issues in California
Here are the types of car problems we see most frequently when we handle Lemon Law cases in California:
- Engine and Transmission Problems. Frequent engine breakdowns, stalling, jerking transmissions, or excessive oil consumption can significantly impact your vehicle’s use and safety. When you encounter odd smells or hissing, popping, or whirring sounds, these are likely signs of engine and transmission problems. A faulty transmission or an overheated engine can trigger the vehicle’s check engine light.
- Electrical System Malfunctions. Recurring electrical problems, such as flickering lights, faulty power windows, or inoperable infotainment systems, can qualify as lemon law defects. Dim headlights, interior lights, or dashboard lights may indicate a failing alternator or battery. Flickering lights could indicate loose wiring. An electrical short can cause a loss of power brakes or steering, which can be dangerous.
- Braking and Suspension Issues. Proper braking and steering, as well as a stable suspension system, are crucial to a car’s drivability and safety. Problems like brake failure, excessive vibration, or steering problems are often at the heart of a California Lemon Law claim.
- Air Conditioning and Heating System Defects. While the loss of AC or heating does not impact the safety of your vehicle, persistent problems with air conditioning or heating systems can substantially impair the use and value of a vehicle, especially in California’s climate.
- Recurring Paint or Body Issues. Extensive paint defects or body panel misalignments not only reduce a vehicle’s value. They can indicate deeper manufacturing issues. Doors that don’t close tightly, squeaky hinges, and other flaws that affect the appearance of the interior or exterior of the car qualify for a Lemon Law claim.
Additional Car Defects That Could be Covered by California Lemon Law
The Barry Law Firm would also like to speak with you about your eligibility to pursue a Lemon Law claim if your dealership has been unable to correct such issues as:
- Fuel system problems
- Water leaks
- Inoperable safety features (airbags, seatbelts)
- Navigation system problems
- Windshield wiper failure.
Which Defects Aren’t Covered Under California Lemon Law?
Some problems with your vehicle may not impact the safety, use, or value of your car and therefore may not be covered by California’s Lemon Law. This might include:
- Loose door handles or radio knobs
- Minor rattles or noises
- Minor cosmetic defects, such as paint blemishes, interior trim problems, minor scratches, and dents
- Issues caused by lack of maintenance or owner’s neglect, misuse or abuse
- Defects caused by unauthorized repair, after-market parts, or vehicle alterations.
A Lawyer Can Help Identify Whether You Have a Lemon
If you are experiencing recurring problems with a recently purchased or leased vehicle under warranty, you should keep all work orders and correspondence related to your repair attempts. Documenting your problems with the vehicle will be crucial to a successful claim.
We also suggest that you consult an experienced Lemon Law attorney with The Barry Law Firm who can:
- Evaluate what you have gone through with your vehicle and determine your eligibility for relief under California’s Lemon Law.
- Contact your vehicle’s manufacturer and demand the relief you are entitled to
- Serve as your advocate and legal counsel as you navigate the process of filing a formal Lemon Law lawsuit, if necessary.
Call Today For a Free Consultation!
Contact The Barry Law Firm today if you have had enough of dealing with a vehicle defect under warranty that your car manufacturer’s dealership cannot correct. During a free initial consultation, a Lemon Law lawyer can review your car’s repair history and warranty and discuss your options. We can help you pursue a Lemon Law claim at no charge if you are eligible because California’s law requires the manufacturer to pay your legal fees after a successful claim!
Contact The Barry Law Firm at 424-688-9516 in Los Angeles, CA, or online for experienced help with your Lemon Law claim.