If your vehicle still has an open airbag recall and the dealer can’t get parts or complete the repair, you’re not stuck without options. California’s Lemon Law may offer relief when a serious safety defect isn’t fixed within a reasonable time. Below, we explain how airbag recalls intersect with California law and how ZapLemon can help you understand your next steps.
Airbag Recall Still Unresolved? Know Your CA Rights
When an airbag recall is announced, manufacturers are obligated to provide a free remedy. But parts shortages or limited repair capacity can leave drivers waiting—sometimes for months—while living with a serious safety concern. An “open recall” means the issue is acknowledged but not yet fixed. If you’re in this situation, start by checking your VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls, confirming whether your vehicle has an active recall and any “do not drive” guidance from the manufacturer.
California’s Lemon Law (the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) may apply when a manufacturer can’t repair a defect covered by the warranty after a reasonable number of attempts, or when the vehicle is out of service for repairs for an extended period. Airbag problems are safety-related, and under California’s “presumption” rules, fewer repair attempts may be deemed reasonable for major safety defects, especially within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles. Even if you’re outside that window, you may still have rights under the Lemon Law based on the full repair history, not just the presumption.
While every situation is unique, there are practical steps you can take now. Keep copies of all repair orders, notes about parts backorders, and any emails or messages from the dealer or manufacturer. Track the total days your vehicle is out of service and document any warnings such as “do not drive” or “park outside.” Ask the dealer for written confirmation of expected repair timelines and availability of loaners. These records can help an attorney evaluate whether the delay and safety risk rise to the level contemplated by California’s Lemon Law.
How ZapLemon Helps With Lemon Law and Airbag Defects
ZapLemon focuses on California Lemon Law issues, including unresolved airbag recalls and other safety-related defects. Our team reviews your warranty coverage, repair orders, recall notices, and timeline to assess whether your situation may fit California’s Lemon Law criteria. We explain the process in plain language so you can make informed choices about potential next steps, such as pursuing a repurchase, replacement, or other remedies where appropriate and available under the law.
If you choose to move forward, ZapLemon can help organize your documentation, communicate with the manufacturer, and pursue your claim through the appropriate channels. Many cases center on whether the manufacturer had a reasonable opportunity to fix the defect and how long the vehicle was unavailable due to repair attempts or parts delays. Our role is to help you present a clear, well-documented claim based on the facts and California law—no pressure, no jargon.
We encourage consumers to act promptly. In California, legal deadlines may apply, and delays can make it harder to gather records. Whether your airbag light keeps coming on, you’ve been told to stop driving your car, or your vehicle has been at the dealer for weeks waiting on parts, a consultation can help you understand your options. Keep in mind, this information is not legal advice; a consultation is necessary to obtain advice about your specific situation.
Airbag recalls involve serious safety issues, and unresolved repairs can be stressful and disruptive. California’s Lemon Law may offer relief when a manufacturer can’t complete a warranty repair within a reasonable time, but outcomes depend on the facts of each case. If you believe your vehicle may qualify as a lemon, contact ZapLemon at (310) 489-3017 or visit https://zaplemon.com for a consultation.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee similar outcomes. For advice about your specific situation, please contact ZapLemon directly.