Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common California Lemon Law questions: costs, timelines, qualifications, vehicle types, and more. Free case evaluation available.

Browse All FAQ Articles

Browse all 57 California lemon law FAQ articles below, organized by topic. Click any question to read the full answer.

Basics

8 articles

Defects & Repairs

8 articles

Buybacks & Remedies

8 articles

Filing & Process

9 articles

Evidence & Documentation

5 articles

Special Situations

8 articles

Manufacturer-Specific

11 articles

Lemon Law Basics

What is California’s Lemon Law?

California’s Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that have substantial defects covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. If the manufacturer or its authorized dealer cannot repair the vehicle after a reasonable number of attempts, the consumer may be entitled to a refund or replacement vehicle.

What makes a car a ‘lemon’?

A car is considered a lemon when it has a substantial defect that impairs its use, value, or safety, and the manufacturer or dealer has been unable to repair the defect after a reasonable number of repair attempts during the warranty period.

How many repair attempts are needed?

While there’s no exact number required by law, generally two or more repair attempts for the same issue, or one attempt for a serious safety defect, may qualify your vehicle. A reasonable number of attempts depends on the nature of the defect.

What does ‘substantially impairs’ mean?

A defect ‘substantially impairs’ a vehicle when it significantly affects the vehicle’s use (you can’t drive it reliably), value (it’s worth less because of the defect), or safety (it poses a danger to you or others).

Are leased vehicles protected?

Yes! Leased vehicles are fully protected under California’s Lemon Law. Whether you bought or leased your vehicle, if it has a substantial defect that can’t be repaired, you have the same rights to a refund or replacement.

Are used vehicles covered?

Used vehicles may be covered if they were sold with a manufacturer’s warranty still in effect, or with a dealer warranty. The Song-Beverly Act primarily covers new vehicles, but used vehicles with active warranties can qualify.

What if my warranty has expired?

You may still have a claim if the defect was first reported or occurred during the warranty period. Even if the warranty has since expired, the law protects consumers who experienced issues while the vehicle was still under warranty.

Are motorcycles and RVs covered?

Yes, California’s Lemon Law covers all new motor vehicles sold with a manufacturer’s warranty, including motorcycles, RVs, trucks, and SUVs.

What is the Tanner Consumer Protection Act?

The Tanner Consumer Protection Act is a companion to the Song-Beverly Act that creates a presumption that a vehicle is a lemon if, within 18 months or 18,000 miles, the manufacturer has made 4+ repair attempts for the same problem, or 2+ attempts for a safety defect, or the vehicle has been out of service for 30+ days.

Do I need a lawyer?

While you can pursue a lemon law claim on your own, having an experienced attorney significantly increases your chances of success and the amount of your settlement. Under California law, the manufacturer pays your attorney fees if you win — so there’s no cost to you.

Costs & Legal Representation

How much does it cost to hire a lemon law attorney?

Nothing upfront. Under California’s Lemon Law, the manufacturer is required to pay your attorney’s fees and costs if you win your case. This means you get free legal representation with no out-of-pocket costs.

How long does a lemon law case take?

Most lemon law cases are resolved within 30 to 90 days. Some straightforward cases settle even faster, while more complex cases involving litigation may take longer. Our team works to resolve your case as quickly as possible.

What can I recover in a lemon law case?

You may be entitled to a full refund of the purchase price (including down payment, monthly payments, registration fees, and taxes), a replacement vehicle of equal value, or a cash settlement. You may also recover incidental damages like towing and rental car costs.

Should I continue going to the dealer for repairs?

Yes, it’s important to continue taking your vehicle to an authorized dealer for repairs and to document every visit. These repair records are essential evidence in your lemon law case.

What if the dealer says the problem is ‘normal’?

Dealers sometimes dismiss legitimate defects as ‘normal characteristics.’ If you believe the issue affects your vehicle’s safety, reliability, or value, you should consult with a lemon law attorney. What the dealer calls ‘normal’ may actually be a substantial defect under the law.

Do lemon law cases go to court?

The vast majority of lemon law cases settle without going to court. However, if the manufacturer refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our team includes experienced trial attorneys ready to fight for you.

What should I do if the manufacturer offers a buyback?

Before accepting any buyback offer, consult with a lemon law attorney. Manufacturers often make lowball offers that don’t fully compensate you. An attorney can evaluate whether the offer is fair and negotiate a better settlement on your behalf.

Can I keep driving my vehicle during the case?

Yes, you can continue driving your vehicle while your case is pending, unless it’s unsafe to do so. Document any issues that arise during this time, as they may strengthen your case.

What documents do I need?

Gather your purchase/lease agreement, all repair orders and receipts, warranty documentation, correspondence with the dealer or manufacturer, and any photos or videos of the defect. Don’t worry if you’re missing some documents — we can help obtain them.

What if the manufacturer denies my claim?

A denial from the manufacturer doesn’t mean your case is over. Many successful lemon law cases initially faced manufacturer denials. An experienced attorney can challenge the denial and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Still Have Questions?

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