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California Lemon Law Overview
California's lemon law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, provides some of the strongest consumer protections in the United States for buyers of defective vehicles.
Key Features
- Covers both new and used vehicles under warranty
- Includes leased vehicles
- Protects small business vehicles
- Manufacturer pays attorney fees
- No filing fees for consumers
Qualification Requirements
Your Vehicle Qualifies If:
- Problem occurs within 18 months/18,000 miles but you may still qualify outside that window if the problem arises during the warranty period.
- Issue substantially impairs use, value, or safety
- Reasonable repair attempts have been made
- Vehicle is primarily used in California
Important Timeframes
Warranty Coverage
Issues must occur within manufacturer's original warranty period
Repair Attempts
- 4 or more attempts to fix the same issue, or
- 2 or more attempts to fix serious safety defects, or
- Vehicle out of service for 30+ days total
Multiple Issues
- 2 or more substantial defects within warranty period
- Each defect must impair use, value, or safety
- Reasonable number of repair attempts for each issue
Note: The defects must occur while the vehicle is covered under the manufacturer's original warranty. There is no specific mileage or time requirement in California as long as the problems arise during the warranty period.
Available Remedies
Replacement
New vehicle of similar value
Repurchase
Full refund minus usage
Civil Penalties
Up to two times your actual damages if the manufacturer willfully violates the law
Legal Process in California
1. Document Everything
- Keep all repair orders
- Track days out of service
- Save all communication
- Take photos/videos
2. Notify Manufacturer
- Written notification
- Certified mail recommended
- Detail all issues
- Request specific remedy
3. Legal Action
- Free consultation
- No upfront fees
- Manufacturer pays costs
- Quick resolution possible
California Lemon Law FAQs
What if I bought my car used?
California lemon law applies to used cars as long as the vehicle is still under the manufacturer's original warranty at the time the defect occurs.
Do I have to pay for an attorney?
No. If you win your lemon law case, the manufacturer is required to pay your attorney's fees under California law.
What if the dealership keeps saying the car is fixed?
If the issue keeps happening despite multiple repair attempts, you may still qualify for lemon law protection — even if the dealership insists it's resolved.
How long do I have to file a lemon law claim?
You typically have up to four years from when you first noticed the defect, but it's best to act as soon as possible while documentation is fresh.
Manufacturer-Specific Information
Need California Lemon Law Advice?
Every case is different. Reach out for a free consultation with a California lemon law attorney.