Is there anything more exciting than buying a new car? The freedom to travel is right in the palm of your hand as you turn the keys! However, when your car spends more time with your mechanic than on the road, you may suspect your new vehicle was sold to you despite defects. You should know that you are protected under California lemon laws. If you believe your car qualifies, contact a Los Angeles, California lemon law attorney to help protect you from spending your hard-earned money on a defective vehicle.
Understanding the Basics of Lemon Laws
When you purchase a new car, you’re doing so under the assumption that it will run as intended. However, in some instances, this is not the case. The vehicle will have significant defects that impact the way it drives or the safety of the driver and passengers.
These laws are designed to protect both you and the dealership. After all, ensuring there are qualifications surrounding repairs ensures that the dealership isn’t losing money on those who simply claim to have a lemon car.
Do I Have a Lemon Car?
If you suspect that you have a lemon car, you’ll need to ensure you meet the minimum qualifications in California. To begin, your vehicle must come with a warranty, whether express from the manufacturer or extended from the dealership.
You are also responsible for attempting a reasonable number of repairs on the car before the dealership or manufacturer is required to buy back or replace the vehicle. In California, the qualifications are as follows:
- A problem occurred within the first 18,000 miles or 18 months of ownership
- You’ve notified the manufacturer about the issue, if necessary
- You have made a reasonable number of repair attempts with the dealer or manufacturer. Reasonable attempts are quantified by the following:
- At least four times for a problem that remains unresolved
- At least two times for an issue that can result in serious injury that cannot be fixed (e.g., problems with steering or breaks)
- The vehicle has accumulated a total of 30 days spent receiving service or repair (does not need to be consecutive)
What Should I Do if I Purchased a Lemon Car?
If your car qualifies as a lemon, you need to send a letter to the manufacturer detailing the issue and providing documentation of the required amount of attempts to remedy the defect. The company is required by California law to promptly replace or refund the purchase. You have the right to choose which option you prefer.
However, if the vehicle’s manufacturer is not cooperating with the law, you’ll need to retain the services of an experienced lemon law attorney. Not only will they be able to help you fight the manufacturer to ensure you receive a replacement car or refund, but an attorney will ensure you get the correct amount. When trying to fight car companies on your own, you may receive compensation, but not in the amount you deserve.
Discuss your options with an experienced Los Angeles lemon law attorney today to help ensure the manufacturer rights the wrong they have caused you.
