When the same car problem keeps coming back, it’s more than frustrating—it can be unsafe, expensive, and disruptive. If you’re in California and your vehicle is still under the manufacturer’s warranty, the California Lemon Law may offer relief. Below, ZapLemon explains the basics and outlines practical steps you can take if you’re dealing with a recurring defect, all in plain language.
Recurring Car Defects? California Lemon Law Basics
California’s Lemon Law—part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act—protects buyers and lessees of vehicles that have defects the manufacturer can’t fix within a reasonable number of attempts. It generally covers new cars and many used or certified pre-owned vehicles that are still under the manufacturer’s warranty. If the defect “substantially impairs” the use, value, or safety of the vehicle, the law may provide remedies.
What counts as a “reasonable number of repair attempts” depends on the facts. California’s Lemon Law includes a helpful presumption: during the first 18 months or 18,000 miles, the law may assume your car is a lemon if, for example, the same issue was repaired four or more times, or a serious safety defect was repaired two or more times, or the vehicle spent 30 or more cumulative days in the shop. Even if you’re outside those milestones, you can still have a claim—the presumption is just one path among several.
If your vehicle qualifies, potential remedies may include a repurchase (buyback) or a replacement vehicle, plus certain incidental costs like towing or rental cars in some situations. Manufacturers may be allowed a mileage offset for the time you drove the car before the defect first appeared. Every case turns on its own facts, warranty terms, and documentation—one reason many consumers speak with a California lemon law firm when the same problem keeps coming back.
What to Do When the Same Problem Keeps Coming Back
Start by documenting everything. Each time you visit the dealership, ask for a detailed repair order that lists your complaint in your own words, the technician’s findings, parts replaced, and the dates and mileage in and out. Save receipts for towing, rental cars, and rideshare costs. If the issue resurfaces—like a transmission that shudders, an EV that loses range suddenly, a check-engine light tied to the same code, or an infotainment system that reboots—return to an authorized dealer and ensure the work is handled under warranty.
Be clear and consistent when describing symptoms. Tell the service writer when the problem happens (e.g., cold starts, highway speeds, after charging), and ask them to note it. Consider asking for a test drive with a technician so they can experience the issue. Check for recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs), and open a case with the manufacturer’s customer care line to create a paper trail. Keep a simple log of dates, mileage, who you spoke with, and what was said.
If the same defect keeps coming back despite multiple dealer visits, consider a consultation with a California lemon law firm like ZapLemon. A consultation can help you understand time limits, repair-attempt thresholds, and what evidence may matter in your situation. While no outcome can be promised, getting guidance early can prevent missteps—such as doing non-warranty repairs at an independent shop—so you can make informed decisions about next steps.
If you’re dealing with a recurring defect, you don’t have to navigate it alone. California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers when manufacturers can’t fix substantial issues within a reasonable number of attempts. Strong records, consistent reporting, and timely action can make a real difference.
Attorney Advertising. This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship with ZapLemon. Legal outcomes depend on specific facts and applicable law. For advice about your situation, please contact a lawyer.
If you believe your vehicle may qualify as a lemon, contact ZapLemon at (310) 489-3017 or visit https://zaplemon.com to request a consultation.