California Lemon Law Frequently Asked Questions

There isn't one simple rule that applies to every vehicle. Factors can include the nature of the defect, whether the vehicle is covered by a manufacturer's warranty, the number and nature of repair attempts, and how the problem affects the vehicle's use, value, or safety.

No. A vehicle does not necessarily have to stop running completely. Recurring defects that substantially affect the vehicle can potentially be relevant to a Lemon Law or warranty claim.

California Lemon Law generally provides protections for qualifying consumers whose covered vehicles have warranty problems that the manufacturer cannot repair after a reasonable opportunity to do so. Whether a particular vehicle qualifies depends on the facts and circumstances of the case.

Not necessarily. California law includes circumstances under which a statutory presumption may apply, but there is no single repair-attempt number that automatically determines every Lemon Law case.

A qualifying new vehicle covered by the applicable manufacturer's warranty may be protected under California Lemon Law when warranty problems cannot be repaired after a reasonable opportunity to do so.

Used-vehicle cases can be more complicated. Whether California Lemon Law protections apply depends on factors such as the vehicle's history, warranty coverage, and circumstances surrounding the purchase. Not every used vehicle is automatically covered in the same way as a new vehicle.

A CPO vehicle may involve specific warranty and purchase circumstances that need to be evaluated. If you're experiencing recurring problems with a CPO vehicle, our firm can review the available documentation and explain your potential options.

If the same problem continues or returns, keep your repair orders and documentation. The complete repair history can be important when evaluating your situation.

A recall does not automatically make a vehicle a lemon. However, a recurring problem connected to a recall may be relevant depending on the circumstances, warranty coverage, and repair history.

Yes. Keep dealership repair orders, maintenance records, warranty documents, and other records related to your vehicle. These documents can help establish what problems were reported and what repairs were attempted.

Yes. California Lemon Lawyers, APC, is based in Sherman Oaks, CA, and represents vehicle owners and lessees throughout the state.

Initial case evaluations are free. The firm works on a contingency basis, with no attorney fees unless you win.

Helpful documents include your purchase or lease agreement, current vehicle registration, dealership repair orders, maintenance records, and manufacturer warranty information.