Buying a new or used vehicle should give you confidence, not constant trips to the repair shop. Unfortunately, some vehicles keep having the same problem no matter how many times they go in for repair. If that sounds familiar, California’s Lemon Law may give you important legal protections.
Many drivers assume they have to live with ongoing repairs, or wait until the warranty expires. In reality, you may have rights much sooner than you think.
What Is California’s Lemon Law?
California’s Lemon Law, officially the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, protects consumers who buy or lease vehicles with defects covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
If the manufacturer cannot repair a substantial defect after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to compensation. Depending on the circumstances, that could include:
- A replacement vehicle
- A manufacturer buyback
- Reimbursement for certain expenses
The purpose of the law is simple: manufacturers are expected to stand behind the vehicles they sell.
Does Your Vehicle Qualify?
Not every repair qualifies under California Lemon Law, but several common situations may point to a claim. Your vehicle may qualify if:
- It has been in the repair shop multiple times for the same issue.
- The problem affects the vehicle’s safety, use, or value.
- The defect continues even after repair attempts.
- The vehicle has been out of service for an extended period due to warranty repairs.
One of the most common misconceptions is that a vehicle has to break down completely before it qualifies. In many cases, that is not true.
Common Lemon Law Defects
Lemon Law claims often involve defects such as:
- Engine or transmission problems
- Electrical system failures
- Brake or steering issues
- Battery failures in electric vehicles
- Charging system defects
- Repeated warning lights
- Software malfunctions
- Persistent suspension or drivetrain problems
Even issues that seem minor on their own can become significant if they keep coming back after repeated repairs.
Electric Vehicles Are Covered Too
As electric vehicles become more common, Lemon Law claims involving EVs have increased. Some examples include:
- Charging failures
- Battery degradation beyond expected performance
- Software updates that fail to resolve the issue
- Loss of driving range caused by defects
- Power system malfunctions
If your EV spends more time at the dealership than on the road, it may be worth speaking with an attorney.
What Should You Do If You Think You Have a Lemon?
Keep detailed records of every repair visit, including:
- Repair orders
- Service invoices
- Dates your vehicle was in the shop
- Communications with the dealership or manufacturer
These documents can become valuable evidence if you decide to pursue a claim.
Don’t assume the next repair attempt will finally solve the problem just because you’ve been told to “give it one more try.” Understanding your legal rights early helps you make informed decisions.
Don’t Wait Until Your Warranty Expires
Many vehicle owners keep driving a defective vehicle because they believe they have to wait, or that nothing can be done.
The sooner you understand your rights, the easier it is to preserve important documentation and weigh your options while warranty coverage is still in effect.
How BNG Legal Group Can Help
Every Lemon Law case is different. An attorney can review your repair history, determine whether your vehicle may qualify under California law, and explain the options available to you.
If your vehicle keeps having the same problem despite repeated repair attempts, you do not have to navigate the process alone. BNG Legal Group represents clients throughout California in Lemon Law matters and offers free consultations.