If the same safety-related problem keeps coming back in your car—brake warnings, stalling, loss of power steering, or an airbag light that won’t stay off—you’re not imagining it. California’s Lemon Law exists to protect consumers when serious defects persist despite repair attempts. This article explains how recurring safety defects are treated under California law and when it may make sense to contact a California lemon law firm like ZapLemon for help.
Recurring Safety Defects Under California Lemon Law
A “recurring safety defect” is a problem that affects the safe use of your vehicle and continues to reappear after repair attempts. Think of issues like an engine that stalls at highway speeds, brakes that feel spongy or trigger repeated warning lights, power steering that intermittently fails, or airbags and seatbelt systems that show persistent faults. These are different from cosmetic or minor annoyances—safety defects can put you and others at risk.
California’s Lemon Law (the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) generally requires that a manufacturer be given a reasonable number of opportunities to fix a defect that substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. The law includes a “presumption” in certain situations, such as when a serious safety defect has been subject to multiple repair attempts, or the car has been out of service for an extended time, typically within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles. Every case is fact-specific, and the exact thresholds can be nuanced, so consider this general information—not legal advice.
Warranty coverage matters. Lemon Law claims usually arise when the defect occurs and repair attempts happen during the manufacturer’s warranty period (new vehicles and certain used vehicles sold with a manufacturer’s warranty). Use an authorized dealership for repairs, ask for detailed repair orders, and confirm that each visit is documented under warranty. Also, check for recalls or Technical Service Bulletins—these don’t automatically make a vehicle a “lemon,” but they can be relevant to understanding the issue.
When to Call a California Lemon Law Firm for Help
If a safety defect keeps returning after repairs—especially for issues like brakes, steering, stalling, or airbags—it’s a good time to speak with a California lemon law firm. Many consumers reach out after the second visit for a serious safety problem, after long repair delays, or when a dealer says “cannot duplicate” even though the defect reappears. Getting guidance early can help you avoid missteps and make sure you’re preserving the records you may need later.
A lemon law firm can evaluate your situation, review your repair history and warranty, and explain potential options such as repurchase, replacement, or a cash settlement to keep the vehicle. California law allows for recovery of reasonable attorney’s fees from the manufacturer if you prevail, which is why many firms offer consultations at no upfront cost. No attorney can promise a specific outcome, but a focused team like ZapLemon can help you understand your rights and next steps.
In the meantime, keep every repair order, tow receipt, and email with the dealer or manufacturer. Note dates the car is out of service and take photos or videos when defects occur. Avoid clearing dashboard codes or resetting phone apps before service, and ask the dealer to list all diagnostic trouble codes on the repair order. You can also check NHTSA’s website for recalls and consider filing a safety complaint. If you’re concerned about driving the car, follow the manufacturer’s guidance and consider safe towing options.
This post is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every situation is different, and you should consult a lawyer about your specific facts. If you believe your vehicle may qualify as a lemon due to a recurring safety defect, contact ZapLemon for a consultation at (310) 489-3017 or visit https://zaplemon.com. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.