If your vehicle keeps going back to the shop for the same problem, you’re probably asking the right question: how many repair attempts are “enough” under California’s Lemon Law? You may also have seen AB 1755 mentioned in the news and wondered whether it changes the answer. This article explains, in plain language, how California measures “enough” repair attempts, why safety issues can lower that number, and what you can do right now to protect your rights.
AB 1755: How many repair attempts are enough in California?
California’s Lemon Law (part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) uses a “reasonable number of repair attempts” standard. There isn’t a single magic number that applies to every situation. However, the law includes a helpful guide called the Tanner Consumer Protection Act presumption: within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles (whichever comes first), a vehicle is presumed to be a lemon if either (1) the same defect has been subject to repair four or more times, (2) a defect likely to cause death or serious bodily injury has been subject to repair two or more times, or (3) the vehicle has been out of service for repairs for a total of more than 30 days. Even if you fall outside that 18-month/18,000-mile window, you may still qualify based on the overall evidence of ongoing defects and repair history.
AB 1755 has drawn attention to how “reasonable number of attempts” is applied, but the core framework remains: reasonableness depends on the facts. The presumption numbers (4 repairs, 2 for serious safety, or 30 days out of service) are guideposts that help consumers and courts decide when the manufacturer has had enough opportunities to fix the problem. In real life, what’s “reasonable” varies—some intermittent issues may require more time to diagnose, while severe safety risks can lower the number of attempts needed. Because bills and regulations can change, it’s wise to check the current state of the law and speak with a lawyer about how any updates might apply to your situation.
What counts as a “repair attempt”? Typically, a documented visit to an authorized dealer for the same issue under the manufacturer’s warranty. “No problem found” and software updates can still count if they were efforts to address your complaint. Days your car sits at the dealership waiting for parts can count toward the 30-day out-of-service total. Practical tip: save every repair order, note dates and mileage, describe your symptoms the same way each time, take photos or videos when possible, and consider opening a case with the manufacturer. If you’re unsure whether your history meets the standard, ZapLemon can review your records and explain your options.
Safety defects and when fewer attempts may qualify
California treats safety-related defects differently because the stakes are higher. The presumption recognizes that two or more repair attempts may be “enough” when the defect is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury. Examples include brake failures, steering problems, airbag or seatbelt malfunctions, fuel or EV battery fire risks, loss of power while driving, or advanced driver-assistance features that behave unpredictably (such as phantom braking). A dealer telling you not to drive the vehicle—or tow instead of drive in—can be a strong signal of a serious safety concern.
Fewer attempts may be reasonable when the risk is immediate or severe. Suppose your brakes lose pressure twice, your steering intermittently locks, or your vehicle repeatedly stalls at highway speeds. Even if the dealer makes repairs each time, the recurrence of a life-threatening problem can meet the Lemon Law standard faster than a minor comfort issue. Keep in mind that the 30-day out-of-service rule applies to safety defects too—if the car is parked at the dealership for lengthy diagnostics or parts delays, those days generally count toward the total.
If you suspect a safety defect, prioritize safety first: stop driving the vehicle if it feels unsafe, tow it to the dealer, and describe the symptoms clearly and consistently. Ask the service department to document your concerns in writing, and request copies of all repair orders. Check for open recalls and technical service bulletins that match your symptoms, and escalate your concern to the manufacturer’s customer care line so there’s a record. Then consider talking with a lawyer who handles California Lemon Law claims. ZapLemon can review your timeline and records and discuss the next steps in a confidential consultation.
Bottom line: California looks at whether the manufacturer had a reasonable number of chances to fix your car. The presumption numbers—four attempts for non-safety issues, two for serious safety defects, or over 30 days out of service within 18 months/18,000 miles—are powerful guideposts, but they’re not the only way to prove your case. Because facts and laws (including any updates discussed in bills like AB 1755) can evolve, it helps to talk through your specific repair history with a professional.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, is not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Results depend on the facts of each case. Attorney advertising.
If you believe your vehicle may qualify as a lemon, contact ZapLemon for a consultation at zaplemon.com. We’ll review your repair records and help you understand your options.