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 keeps breaking down and the dealer or manufacturer isn’t getting it fixed, you may be wondering how long they have to respond under California’s Lemon Law. California’s rules focus on “reasonable time” to repair and “prompt” action when a vehicle can’t be fixed after multiple attempts. Understanding these timelines—and how to document them—can help you protect your rights and decide when to escalate.
How Long Manufacturers Have to Respond in California
California’s Lemon Law (the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) requires manufacturers to repair warranty-covered defects within a reasonable time. As a practical benchmark, the law expects repairs to be completed within 30 days, unless delays are caused by conditions beyond the manufacturer’s or dealer’s control (for example, natural disasters or parts shortages outside their supply chain). If your vehicle spends more than 30 total days in the shop for warranty repairs, that downtime can support a lemon claim—even if those days aren’t consecutive.
When a defect isn’t fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts, the law requires the manufacturer to “promptly” offer a repurchase or replacement. California does not set a hard-and-fast number of days for a buyback decision. Instead, “promptly” depends on the circumstances—how complex the issue is, how quickly the manufacturer can review records, and what your warranty says. Many manufacturers also use third-party dispute programs (like BBB Auto Line or NCDS), which have their own timelines—often around 30–40 days from filing to decision—but those programs are separate from the state law itself.
The “Tanner presumption” can help consumers during the first 18 months or 18,000 miles: it presumes your car is a lemon if it meets certain repair-attempt or downtime thresholds and the manufacturer received direct notice when required by the warranty. While the presumption isn’t required to win a case, it can shift the burden in your favor. Regardless of where you are in the process, keep every repair order, parts invoice, and communication so you can show exactly when the manufacturer was notified and how long they took.
What to Do if the Manufacturer Misses the Deadline
If repairs are dragging past 30 days or you’ve asked for a buyback and aren’t hearing back, start by following up in writing. Reference your vehicle’s VIN, list the dates and mileage of each repair visit, and state clearly whether you’re seeking further repair, repurchase, or replacement. Send your letter or email to the manufacturer’s customer care and the dealer’s service manager, and consider using certified mail so there’s a record of delivery.
Next, review your warranty booklet to see if the manufacturer requires or offers an informal dispute program. Filing with the designated program can create a structured timeline and produce a written decision. Meanwhile, keep meticulous records: a log of all calls and emails, photos or videos of the defect, copies of rental or towing receipts, and every repair order that describes the concern and the work performed. These items can be critical if you later pursue legal remedies.
If the manufacturer still doesn’t respond or the defect continues, consider consulting a California lemon law attorney to evaluate your options. Time limits may apply, and getting advice early can help you avoid missteps and preserve your claim. An attorney can also help with a formal demand, negotiate with the manufacturer, or file a lawsuit if appropriate—without promising or guaranteeing an outcome. ZapLemon can review your documentation and explain next steps tailored to your situation.
This article is for informational purposes only, is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every case is different, and you should consult an attorney about your specific facts. If you believe your vehicle may qualify as a lemon or you have questions about manufacturer response times, contact ZapLemon for a consultation at www.zaplemon.com. We’re here to help you understand your rights and options under California law.
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Attorney advertising. General information is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. No result is promised or guaranteed.