California Lemon Law and Faulty Steering Systems

Steering problems can turn every drive into a white-knuckle experience. If your vehicle wanders, pulls, loses power steering assist, or lights up the dash with steering warnings—and the dealership can’t seem to fix it—you may be wondering whether California Lemon Law can help. Below, ZapLemon explains how the law applies to faulty steering systems and what to document if the problems keep coming back.

How California Lemon Law Applies to Steering Defects

California’s Lemon Law (part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) protects consumers when a manufacturer or its authorized dealer cannot repair a vehicle’s defect after a reasonable number of attempts while the vehicle is under warranty. Steering issues are often considered safety-related because they affect a driver’s ability to control the car. Problems like repeated loss of power steering assist, electronic power steering (EPS) faults, steering wheel vibration or shimmy, vehicle drift or wander, or a persistent “steering assist reduced” message can trigger Lemon Law analysis when they substantially impair use, value, or safety.

Whether a steering issue qualifies depends on the facts. The law generally requires that the manufacturer be given a reasonable number of opportunities to fix the same issue. There’s also a legal “presumption” that can apply during the first 18 months or 18,000 miles if certain conditions are met—such as multiple repair attempts for the same problem or the vehicle being out of service for a total of 30 or more days for warranty repairs. Safety defects, like intermittent loss of steering assist at highway speeds, may require fewer attempts because of the increased risk. Normal wear or damage due to misuse typically won’t qualify.

If your vehicle meets the legal standards, potential remedies can include a buyback (repurchase), a replacement vehicle, or other relief under the statute, often with a mileage offset for use before the first repair attempt. Incidental expenses related to the defect—like towing or rental cars—may also be considered. Every case is different; outcomes depend on documentation, timing, and the specific facts. Consulting with a Lemon Law attorney can help you understand your options and next steps.

What to Document if Steering Problems Persist

Start by saving every repair order and invoice from the dealership. The paperwork should list your steering complaint in your own words, the technician’s diagnosis, the parts replaced or software updated, and the dates the vehicle was in and out of service. If the shop road tests the vehicle, the mileage and test conditions should be noted. Keep copies of any diagnostic codes pulled, EPS module resets, steering rack replacements, alignment specifications, or reprogramming bulletins used.

Create a simple log to capture what happens between appointments. Note the date, mileage, speed, and driving conditions when the issue appears (for example, “60 mph on I‑5, slight curve, steering assist warning illuminated, wheel momentarily stiff”). Record weather, road surface, and tire status. If safe, take short videos or photos that show warning lights, messages, or the steering wheel shimmy; modern vehicle issues are often intermittent, and visuals can help a technician (and later, a reviewer) understand the pattern.

Round out your file with warranty and manufacturer information. Keep your purchase or lease agreement, warranty booklet, and any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) you receive. Check your VIN for recalls through NHTSA and the manufacturer’s site. Save emails or messages with the dealer or manufacturer regarding the steering concern, and document any towing or rental expenses. Maintain your tires and alignment according to the manual so the manufacturer can’t attribute the problem to neglect. When the issue recurs, describe it consistently and ask the advisor to include your exact description on the repair order.