A new car should mean freedom, not frustration. But for some drivers, what rolls off the lot is nothing but trouble. Constant repairs, repeat visits to the shop, and safety concerns can all point to one thing: a lemon.

The California lemon law is clear. It protects consumers who unknowingly purchase vehicles with serious defects. This law doesn’t just apply to cars—it also covers trucks, SUVs, and certain motorhomes, whether leased or bought. What matters most is that the vehicle is under warranty and has substantial defects that the manufacturer can’t fix in a reasonable number of attempts.

What Counts as a “Lemon”?

To qualify as a lemon in California:

1. The car must have a significant defect that affects its safety, value, or use.
2. That defect must appear within 18 months or 18,000 miles—whichever comes first.
3. The manufacturer must have been given a reasonable number of repair attempts.

The term “reasonable” isn’t vague under the law. If a problem continues after four attempts or two attempts if it involves something life-threatening, that’s considered enough. Also, if the vehicle spends more than 30 days total in the shop for warranty repairs, it may qualify.

What Are Your Rights?

Once a vehicle is labeled a lemon, the consumer has choices. The manufacturer must either:

1. Replace the car with a new one of equal value.
2. Refund the full purchase price, including down payment, taxes, and license fees.

Buyers aren’t expected to accept partial compensation. California ensures consumers get back what they lost—minus a small amount for mileage used before the defect was first reported.

How to Take Action

Many people miss out on protection because they don’t act fast or don’t keep records. To use the law effectively:

1. Document everything—dates of repairs, invoices, communications with the dealer.
2. Report the issue to the manufacturer, not just the dealership.
3. Consult a lemon law attorney to evaluate your case.

Some claims are resolved with a letter. Others require legal action. But thanks to the law, manufacturers may have to pay your legal fees if you win.

Why Legal Help Matters

These cases aren’t always simple. Big automakers have legal teams. They may deny, delay, or offer lowball settlements. That’s where professionals like Seven Law Group step in. With experience and strategy, they fight for full compensation and hold manufacturers accountable.

Consumers don’t have to accept defective products. California law is on their side. But justice often requires persistence—and the right legal guide.

• Law