Can Lemon Law Apply to My Lease?

If you leased a car in California and it keeps going back to the shop for the same problem, you’re probably wondering: can lemon law apply to my lease? In many cases, yes. California’s lemon law doesn’t just protect buyers—it can also protect lessees when a manufacturer can’t fix a significant defect within a reasonable number of attempts. Below, we explain how the law treats leased vehicles and what steps you can take if your lease is acting like a lemon.

How California’s Lemon Law Treats Leased Cars

California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (commonly called the “lemon law”) generally covers new vehicles that come with a manufacturer’s warranty, whether the car is purchased or leased for personal, family, or household use. If your leased vehicle has a defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety—and the manufacturer or its authorized dealer can’t fix it after a reasonable number of attempts—the law may provide remedies. Think of issues like a transmission that shudders, brakes that squeal and vibrate, or an electrical system that repeatedly shuts down infotainment and safety features.

If a leased car qualifies as a lemon, the typical remedies are a replacement vehicle or a repurchase (often called a “buyback”). For leases, a repurchase usually means the manufacturer pays off the remaining lease balance to the lessor, refunds what you’ve paid (such as your down payment, monthly payments, taxes and certain fees), and may cover incidental costs like towing or rental vehicles—minus a mileage offset for the use you had before the first substantial repair attempt. The exact calculation depends on the facts and your paperwork, which is why keeping complete records is so important.

Coverage can extend to some used or certified pre-owned leases if the vehicle is still under the original manufacturer’s warranty or a qualifying warranty when problems arise. California also has a legal “presumption” that helps consumers within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles if certain repair-attempt or days-out-of-service thresholds are met, but you may still have rights even outside that window. Deadlines can apply, and the details matter, so many consumers choose to have a consultation to understand how the lemon law might apply to their lease.

Steps to Take if Your Leased Vehicle Has Defects

Document everything. Each time you visit an authorized dealership, make sure your complaint is clearly written on the repair order before you sign. Keep copies of all repair orders, invoices, and work summaries; note dates in and out of service; and save texts or emails with the service department. Photos or short videos showing the problem (for example, a dashboard full of warning lights or a screen that freezes) can also help establish what’s happening.

Give the manufacturer and its authorized dealer a reasonable opportunity to fix the issue. Follow your warranty booklet, use authorized repair facilities, and promptly report recurring problems. If the vehicle is unsafe to drive, say so at the service counter and request a loaner. Continue making your lease payments while you pursue fixes—missing payments can complicate matters. Avoid aftermarket modifications that could be blamed for the defect.

When problems persist, you can elevate the issue. Consider contacting the manufacturer’s customer care line listed in your warranty materials, asking for a case number, and requesting a review. Some manufacturers offer arbitration programs; whether arbitration is right for you depends on your situation. Many consumers find it helpful to talk with a lemon law attorney about options, remedies, and what documentation is needed. A quick consultation can clarify whether your leased vehicle might qualify and what next steps make sense for you.

If your leased vehicle keeps returning to the shop for the same issue, you’re not stuck—California’s lemon law may apply to leases. The key is understanding your warranty, documenting repair attempts, and getting timely guidance on your options. For information only: this post is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every situation is unique. If you believe your vehicle may qualify as a lemon, contact ZapLemon for a consultation at zaplemon.com or call (877) 492-8282. We’re here to answer questions and help you understand your rights.