Do I have to pay attorney's fees up front?

No. The Lemon Law requires the manufacturer to pay the consumer’s attorney's fees and costs if the consumer prevails. The consumer pays nothing. In most cases, the Scott Law Group PC takes cases on a contingency fee basis and agrees to collect its fees directly from the manufacturer if the consumer prevails or settles their claim.

What is The California Lemon Law?

The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, also known as the Lemon Law, is designed to enforce the manufacturer’s promise to repair defects. If the manufacturer is unable to repair the defect within a reasonable number of attempts, they are obligated to return all monies paid for the product, including down payment, monthly payments, registration, insurance, and out-of-pocket expenses.

How do I know if I have a negligence claim?

Negligence occurs when someone fails to use reasonable care to prevent harm. If you have been injured as a result of negligence, you may have a claim. It's important to consult with an attorney to evaluate your specific circumstances.

What qualifies a car as a lemon?

A car is considered a lemon if it has a significant defect or series of defects that affect its safety, value, or use, and the manufacturer or dealer has been unable to repair the issue after a reasonable number of attempts or within a reasonable amount of time.

How long do I have to file a claim under the Lemon Law?

In California, you generally have four years from the date of the first repair attempt to file a Lemon Law claim. It's important to act quickly to ensure your rights are protected.

What kinds of vehicles are covered under California Lemon Law?

California Lemon Law applies to new and used cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and other vehicles that are sold or leased with a warranty. It also covers certain vehicles that are used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes.

Trusted Lemon Law Attorney in San Diego

Looking for a trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego? Start by researching lawyers who specialize in California Lemon Law and have a proven track record in the San Diego area. Check online reviews on Google and legal directories, and ask for referrals from friends or local car enthusiast groups. You can also read client testimonials on attorney websites to gauge reliability and success rates. Make sure the attorney offers a free consultation and works on a contingency basis—that means you don’t pay unless you win, which shows confidence and commitment in handling your case.

What Does a Trusted Lemon Law Attorney in San Diego Do?

A trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego specializes in helping consumers resolve disputes over defective vehicles. These legal professionals understand the California Lemon Law inside and out, ensuring that you’re not stuck with a malfunctioning car, motorcycle, RV, or leased vehicle. Here’s what you can expect:

They offer a free case evaluation to determine your eligibility.
Pursue full refunds, replacements, or cash settlements on your behalf.
Handle all communication with the manufacturer or dealership.
Work on a contingency fee basis — no payment unless you win.
Help gather necessary documentation, such as repair invoices and warranty records.

Types of Vehicles Covered by Lemon Law

California’s Lemon Law doesn’t just apply to common passenger cars. A trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego can support you with a wide range of vehicle types, including:

1. Leased Vehicles

California Lemon Law applies to leased vehicles still under the manufacturer’s warranty. If a leased car has recurring mechanical defects after reasonable repair attempts, you may qualify for a refund or replacement. Learn more about leased vehicle lemon law coverage.

2. Used Vehicles

Used cars may also be covered if they’re sold with a manufacturer’s warranty. A trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego can help determine if your used car qualifies under state law.

3. Motorcycles

Yes, motorcycles are covered! If your bike spends more time in the shop than on the road, you may have a lemon. Learn more about your legal rights with motorcycles.

4. RVs and Motorhomes

Recreational vehicles and motorhomes often have complex issues involving chassis, engines, or appliances. An attorney can help navigate lemon claims involving recreational vehicles.

How Do You Know If You Have a Lemon?

Not every defective car qualifies, but California has specific criteria to help determine eligibility. You may have a lemon if:

The vehicle was bought or leased in California.
It’s still under the manufacturer’s warranty.
The defect significantly impairs use, value, or safety.
The manufacturer has had a reasonable number of repair attempts (usually 2–4 depending on severity).

Here’s a quick overview of what “reasonable attempts” might look like based on CA Lemon Law:

Condition	Repair Attempts	Time Out of Service
Safety Defect	2 or more	Any duration
Non-safety Defect	4 or more	Over 30 days total
Recurring Issue	Multiple times	Cumulative days add up

What to Look For in a Trusted Lemon Law Attorney in San Diego

Finding the right attorney doesn’t have to be difficult. Here’s what to consider:

Specialization: Look for attorneys who exclusively handle lemon law cases.
Experience: Years in practice and successful case outcomes matter.
Local Knowledge: A San Diego attorney knows local dealerships, consumer patterns, and court systems.
No Upfront Fees: Choose someone who works on a contingency basis.
Client Reviews: Check platforms like Google, Avvo, and Yelp for verified testimonials.

Steps to Take Before Contacting a Lemon Law Attorney

Before reaching out to a trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego, prepare the following:

Repair Orders: Keep service invoices and descriptions of the problems.
Warranty Information: Make sure the vehicle is still under manufacturer coverage.
Timeline: Organize a log of all repair attempts and time the vehicle spent in the shop.
Communication: Take note of any back-and-forth with the manufacturer or dealers.
Photos/Videos: If safe, document visible symptoms of the defect.

How Long Do Lemon Law Cases Take in California?

Every case is unique, but here’s a general timeline:

Initial consultation and case review: 1–2 weeks.
Filing and negotiations: 6–12 weeks.
If going to trial: Up to 6–12 months (though many settle before this stage).

Having a trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego increases your chances for a quick and favorable resolution.

What Are You Entitled To?

Depending on your case, here are potential outcomes:

Vehicle Repurchase (Buyback): Refund of the original price minus usage fees.
Replacement Vehicle: The same or comparable model at no extra cost.
Cash Settlement: Compensation for diminished value or inconvenience.

Does the Law Cover Attorney Fees?

Yes! Under California Lemon Law, the manufacturer must pay your legal fees if you prevail. This allows you to pursue justice without financial risk.

Why Local Representation Matters

Working with a trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego gives you the benefit of:

Accessible Legal Help: Easier to meet in-person and drop off documents.
Familiarity with Local Dealerships: Attorneys know the tactics used by local manufacturers or service centers.
Court Knowledge: Regional experience can speed up settlements or better predict outcomes.

If your issue is related to purchased recreational vehicles, explore more about your rights regarding RV and motorhome claims.

Your Road to Resolution Starts Here

If you’ve been battling your dealership or manufacturer over a defective vehicle, don’t go it alone. A trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego can relieve your stress and take the wheel on your case. From leased sedans to used motorcycles, they’ll help you assert your rights and work toward the compensation or replacement you deserve.

Don’t settle for broken promises — take control of your lemon and steer toward a positive legal outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Lemon Law attorney do in San Diego?

A Lemon Law attorney in San Diego helps consumers resolve issues with defective vehicles by offering a free case evaluation, handling manufacturer communications, pursuing refunds or replacements, and working on a contingency basis—meaning you pay nothing unless you win.

How do I choose a trusted Lemon Law attorney in San Diego?

Look for a lawyer who specializes in Lemon Law, has successful case history, understands local dealerships and courts, works on a contingency fee basis, and holds strong client reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or Avvo.

What vehicles are covered under California Lemon Law?

California Lemon Law covers new and used vehicles under warranty, including leased vehicles, motorcycles, passenger cars, trucks, SUVs, and even RVs and motorhomes that experience repeated, warranty-covered mechanical defects.

How long does a Lemon Law case take in California?

Most Lemon Law cases take between 6 to 12 weeks to resolve if settled. If the case goes to trial, it may take up to 6–12 months. Having a qualified local attorney can speed up the process by streamlining communication and legal steps.

Are attorney fees covered in a Lemon Law case?

Yes, if you win your Lemon Law case in California, the manufacturer is required to pay your legal fees. This makes it easier for consumers to seek qualified legal help without worrying about the cost.

Your San Diego Lemon Law Solution Starts Here

Still searching for the right Lemon Law attorney in San Diego? Choose a team that truly knows California Lemon Law — and has the local experience to win. The Scott Lemon Law Attorney of San Diego offers free consultations, works on a contingency basis, and fights hard to get you the refund, replacement, or settlement you deserve. Let us handle the legal headaches while you focus on getting back on the road. Your compensation could be just a call or click away.

On October 10, 2025 / California Lemon Law

How do I find a reputable Lemon Law attorney in San Diego?