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.
When your new or used car keeps going back to the shop for the same issue, California’s lemon law—also called the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act—may offer relief. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to check whether your vehicle might qualify and how to start a claim. It’s written in plain English to help you understand the big picture so you can make informed decisions about your next move.
Check If Your Car Qualifies Under CA Lemon Law
California’s lemon law generally covers new and used vehicles purchased or leased in California that come with a manufacturer’s warranty. That includes many certified pre-owned vehicles and certain business vehicles (if your business owns or leases no more than five vehicles). The defect must be covered by the warranty and must substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. Think repeated engine stalling, transmission slipping, brake failures, power steering loss, electrical system shutdowns, or infotainment issues that knock out backup cameras or safety features.
A key part of qualifying is whether the manufacturer had a “reasonable number of repair attempts.” California has a legal presumption that can help consumers: within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles (whichever comes first), your vehicle may be presumed a lemon if the dealer tried to fix the same problem at least four times, or two or more times for a defect likely to cause serious injury or death, or if the vehicle was out of service for repairs for a total of 30 or more days. These are guidelines, not hard limits—cases outside these numbers can still qualify depending on the facts. Repairs should be performed by an authorized dealer, and the problem must arise during the warranty period.
Documentation is critical. Keep every repair order with the date, mileage, problem description, and the dealer’s findings and fixes. Save emails and texts with the dealer or manufacturer, tow receipts, rental or loaner records, and photos or videos showing the issue. Review your warranty booklet to confirm coverage and any manufacturer dispute-resolution program. Be mindful of timing: different deadlines may apply, and the general statute of limitations for lemon law claims in California can be up to four years from when you discovered the warranty breach—specifics can vary, so it’s wise to consult a professional about your timeline.
File Your Claim: Forms, Timelines, and Next Steps
Start by notifying the manufacturer in writing. A clear, organized letter or email can function like your “form.” Include your name and contact information, VIN, year/make/model, purchase or lease date, current mileage, a concise timeline of each repair attempt (dates, mileage, dealer, symptoms), and what you’re requesting under California lemon law (for example, repurchase, replacement, or another appropriate remedy). Send it by certified mail or another trackable method and keep copies of everything. Your warranty booklet may list a specific address or online portal for warranty disputes.
Many automakers participate in informal dispute programs such as BBB AUTO LINE or other manufacturer-sponsored arbitration. You may find the application form online or in your warranty booklet. Arbitration can be faster and free for consumers, and decisions are often nonbinding—meaning you can still pursue a lawsuit if you disagree with the result. During this phase, the manufacturer may request an inspection or one more repair attempt. Keep using authorized dealers and continue documenting any new issues. Remedies under the law can include repurchase, replacement, or cash compensation, depending on the circumstances; outcomes vary by case.
If the dispute doesn’t resolve, the next step is often filing a civil claim in court. Preparation matters: organize your repair orders, sales or lease contract, registration, communications, photos, and a log of all symptoms and time out of service. Do not stop making your loan or lease payments unless you receive written instructions—missed payments can affect your credit and leverage. If a buyback is offered, review the terms carefully: California law may require a mileage offset for your use before the first repair attempt, and any “lemon law buyback” must be branded on the title by the DMV. Consider consulting an attorney before signing a release so you understand what rights you may be waiving.
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.