What Qualifies As A Lemon In California?
California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers who have purchased or leased a new vehicle that fails to meet the standards of quality and performance. The term “lemon” refers to a car that, despite attempts to repair it, continues to have a defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety. This article will delve into what qualifies as a lemon in California, the protections afforded by the law, and the necessary steps to take if you find yourself stuck with a lemon vehicle.
Definition of a Lemon
A car qualifies as a lemon in California if it has a persistent defect that cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts. These defects must occur within 18 months or 18,000 miles from the vehicle’s purchase. The problem must be serious enough to significantly affect the car’s use, value, or safety.
Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts
What constitutes a “reasonable number” of attempts? This can vary, but typically, it means that the vehicle has been:
Repaired at least twice for a warranty problem that could result in death or serious injury.
In the repair shop for more than 30 days total.
Subject to at least four repairs for the same non-substantial safety-related defect.
If any of these conditions apply, the vehicle might be considered a lemon.
What To Do If You Have A Lemon
If you believe you have a lemon vehicle, the first step is to contact the manufacturer, who may offer to replace or repurchase the vehicle. If that fails, you might consider hiring an attorney specializing in Lemon Law cases to ensure that your rights are adequately protected.
Protection Under the Law
California’s Lemon Law applies to both new and used vehicles, as long as the vehicle is still under the original manufacturer’s warranty. It also applies to leased cars.
The law allows consumers to get a refund or a replacement for the defective vehicle. It also requires the manufacturer to pay for reasonable attorney’s fees, making it easier for consumers to seek legal assistance if needed.
FAQs
Does California’s Lemon Law Apply To Used Cars?
Yes, the Lemon Law applies to used cars as well, provided that they are still under the original manufacturer’s warranty.
Can I Handle A Lemon Law Claim By Myself?
While it’s possible to pursue a claim on your own, it might be beneficial to consult with an attorney specializing in Lemon Law, as they will understand the complexities of the law and can help ensure that your rights are protected.
What If My Car Is Repaired After The Warranty Period But Still Exhibits Problems?
If the problem initially occurred within the warranty period and the repair attempts were made during that time, you might still have a valid Lemon Law claim. Consult with an attorney to understand your specific situation.
Conclusion
California’s Lemon Law provides essential protections for consumers who find themselves with a defective vehicle. Understanding what qualifies as a lemon and the rights and remedies under the law can empower consumers to take the necessary actions to rectify the situation. If you suspect that you have a lemon, it’s essential to act quickly, consult with a professional if needed, and take advantage of the protections offered under California’s comprehensive Lemon Law.
At Scott Law Group P.C. We have years of expertise assisting individuals in pursuing lemon law claims for compensation. We provide a free consultation so that you may determine whether or not you have a case, and we only get paid if we are successful in representing you in that matter. For further information, please get in touch with us right away at (619) 345-5599.
If you need a professional lemon lawyer for your case, contact us right away!
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