Start with the records. Repair orders, warranty documents, mileage, and days out of service are more useful than general assumptions about whether a vehicle qualifies.
If your car spends more time in the repair shop than in your driveway, you might be wondering if you have options under the California Lemon Law. Officially part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, this law is designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease vehicles with serious defects.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Every case is different, and you should speak with a qualified professional about your specific situation.
What the California Lemon Law Covers
The California Lemon Law generally applies when:
- The vehicle is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
- A defect substantially impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle.
- The manufacturer or its authorized dealer has made a reasonable number of repair attempts to fix the issue.
This law can apply to both new and certain used vehicles that are still under the original manufacturer’s warranty.
When Is a Car Considered a Lemon in California?
California law provides some guidelines for when a vehicle might qualify:
- Two or more repair attempts for the same dangerous defect that could cause serious injury or death.
- Four or more repair attempts for the same non-dangerous defect.
- 30 or more total days out of service for warranty repairs (not necessarily consecutive).
Vehicles That May Be Covered
The law may apply to:
- New cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans purchased or leased in California.
- Certain used vehicles still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Dealer-owned vehicles and demonstrators.
- Some motorcycles, motor homes, and commercial vehicles (subject to specific limitations).
What Remedies Could Be Available?
If your car qualifies as a lemon under California law, the manufacturer may be required to:
- Replace the vehicle with a similar one, or
- Refund the purchase or lease price (minus a mileage deduction for use before the first repair attempt).
Tips for California Car Owners
If you think your vehicle might be a lemon:
- Document Everything – Keep copies of repair orders, invoices, and all communications with the dealer or manufacturer.
- Track Downtime – Record each day your vehicle is out of service for repairs.
- Know the Warranty Terms – Your rights depend in part on warranty coverage.
- Act Quickly – Waiting too long can affect your eligibility.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. For guidance about your specific situation, consult a licensed California attorney.
Think You May Have a Lemon?
If your car is always in the shop and you think it might qualify under California Lemon Law, ZapLemon is here to help. Call us at [Insert Phone Number] or visit [Insert Website] to share your situation and see if we can assist you.
Need a case-specific review?
Use the case-review form to share the warranty, repair orders, dates, mileage, and supporting facts an attorney would need to evaluate, or call (844) 927-5366.
Attorney advertising. General information is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. No result is promised or guaranteed.