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Experienced California Lemon Law Lawyers

Introduction to California Lemon Law

California’s Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, protects consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles. If you’ve bought a car that has persistent issues, you might be entitled to a refund, replacement, or cash compensation. In cases where the manufacturer has willfully violated the law, they may even be required to pay civil penalties.

What Vehicles Are Covered Under California Lemon Law?

California Lemon Law applies to:

  • New and used vehicles purchased or leased in California.
  • Vehicles under 10,000 pounds.
  • Vehicles covered by the manufacturer’s written warranty.

Exceptions:

  • Vehicles owned by businesses or individuals with more than five vehicles registered in California are excluded.

When Does California Lemon Law Apply?

To qualify under California Lemon Law, your vehicle must have a defect that significantly impairs its use, value, or safety. The defect must continue after a reasonable number of repair attempts by the manufacturer.

Required Repair Attempts:

A reasonable number of repair attempts is generally considered to be between two and four, although this can vary based on the vehicle and the severity of the issues. Additionally, a presumption of a “lemon” arises if the vehicle is out of service for 30 days or more within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles of a new vehicle.

Repair Timeline:

These repair attempts must take place within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles of the new vehicle, whichever comes first, or during the manufacturer’s warranty period.

If your vehicle doesn’t meet these requirements, you may still have options under the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.

Compensation Under California Lemon Law

If your vehicle is deemed a Lemon, you could receive:

  • Refund (Buyback): Includes the purchase price, sales tax, registration costs, and more. A mileage offset may be deducted based on how much you drove the vehicle before the first repair attempt.
  • Replacement Vehicle: A similar vehicle, with the manufacturer covering all related taxes and fees. However, availability can vary due to factors like model discontinuation or supply chain issues.

Civil Penalties: If the manufacturer willfully violates the law, they could be required to pay up to twice the amount of your refund in civil penalties.

Attorney’s Fees: In California Lemon Law cases, the manufacturer pays your attorney’s fees if you win, so you don’t pay out-of-pocket for legal representation.

Act Quickly for the Best Results

The sooner you act, the better your chances of a successful outcome. If you suspect your vehicle is a Lemon, contact a qualified California Lemon Law attorney for a free case review.

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