Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is designed to prevent or lessen crashes by warning the driver and, if necessary, applying the brakes automatically. When AEB glitches, false-brakes, or fails to engage, it can put you and your passengers at risk—and it can create frustrating, repeated trips to the dealership. If you’re dealing with ongoing AEB problems in California, understanding how the lemon law applies and how to document your repair history can help you protect your rights. The information below is educational and general in nature; for guidance on your specific situation, consider contacting ZapLemon for a consultation.
What AEB Failures Mean Under California Lemon Law
AEB issues typically show up in two ways: false positives (unexpected hard braking when nothing is in the lane) and false negatives (no braking when a collision is imminent). Both can be serious. Sudden, unwarranted braking can lead to rear-end collisions, while failure to brake can increase crash risk. Under California’s lemon law (the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act), a defect that substantially impairs the use, value, or safety of a vehicle—and that persists despite reasonable repair attempts—may qualify for relief.
Coverage generally hinges on the manufacturer’s warranty. If your AEB problems arise during the warranty period and the dealer can’t fix them after a reasonable number of attempts, or your vehicle is out of service for repair for an extended time, you may have lemon law rights. California has a “presumption” that can apply within certain early ownership periods (for example, within 18 months or 18,000 miles), but claims can still be valid outside that window; every case turns on its facts. Safety-related defects sometimes require fewer repair visits to be considered “reasonable,” but there is no one-size-fits-all rule.
AEB systems blend sensors, cameras, radar, and software. Causes of failure can include misaligned sensors, faulty modules, software bugs, poor calibration after windshield or bumper work, and even environmental conditions like heavy rain or glare. Automakers may issue technical service bulletins (TSBs), recalls, or over-the-air updates addressing known AEB behaviors. If updates don’t resolve the problem—or if the issue repeatedly returns—keep documenting it. The pattern can matter as much as any single event.
Steps to Document Repairs and Protect Your Claim
Start with clear, consistent documentation. Each time you visit the dealer, describe the AEB problem in simple, observable terms: what happened, at what speed, on what road, and whether any dash lights or messages appeared. Ask the service advisor to write your complaint exactly as you reported it and to include the mileage, date, and any stored diagnostic codes. Always leave with a printed or emailed repair order and final invoice, even if “no problem found” appears.
Capture evidence when it’s safe to do so. Photos or brief videos of warning lights, messages, or sudden braking events can help a technician recreate the concern. If your vehicle has a dashcam, save relevant clips. Keep screenshots of over-the-air update notes that reference AEB, forward collision warning, or ADAS calibration. Track days your vehicle is in the shop and whether you received a loaner; out-of-service time can be important. If the issue is widespread, consider filing a complaint with NHTSA and save your confirmation.
Be proactive with follow-up. If the AEB problem persists, ask for a test drive with a technician so they can witness the behavior. Request that the dealer check for TSBs, recalls, and calibration procedures, especially after windshield or body repairs. Keep communications professional and in writing when possible, and consider opening a case with the manufacturer’s customer care to obtain a case number. Avoid modifying sensors or installing aftermarket accessories near the windshield or bumpers while the issue is being diagnosed, as this can complicate warranty coverage. When you’re ready to explore your options, a consultation with ZapLemon can help you understand the process and timelines.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship with ZapLemon, and past results (if any are discussed) do not guarantee similar outcomes. California lemon law rights depend on specific facts, warranties, and repair histories. If you believe your vehicle may qualify as a lemon due to AEB failures or other defects, contact ZapLemon at [phone number] or visit [website] to request a consultation and learn about your options. Attorney advertising.