Car Defects and Your Rights Under California’s Lemon Law
When acquiring a vehicle through purchase or lease, it is vital to prioritize safety and dependability. Although there have been significant improvements in automotive technology and production methods, issues can still arise, putting the well-being of both drivers and passengers at risk. If you suspect your car might have a defect, it’s crucial to understand your rights as defined by California’s lemon law.
At McMillan Law Group, we dedicate ourselves to guiding clients through the intricacies of lemon law claims. Our skilled attorneys strive to handle cases promptly while safeguarding your rights. Start by scheduling a free case evaluation, and let us help you understand your options.
What is California’s Lemon Law?
The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, often known as California’s Lemon Law, protects individuals who purchase or lease vehicles with persistent issues. To be eligible for coverage under this legislation, the problems must substantially impair the vehicle’s functionality, value, or safety. Additionally, the manufacturer or dealer must have been afforded multiple opportunities to resolve the defects.
The Lemon law covers new cars, certified pre-owned vehicles, and certain used cars including a warranty. Should the manufacturer or an authorized dealer be unable to fix an issue after multiple reasonable efforts, the owner may be entitled to either a replacement vehicle or a refund. Car owners must know if their vehicle meets the criteria set by California’s lemon law to safeguard their rights.
Common Car Defects Covered by California Lemon Law
1. Airbag Defects
Faulty airbags may not activate when needed or may malfunction upon deployment, leading to a serious threat of injury or fatality. The Lemon law places significant importance on airbag defects because they directly affect the vehicle’s safety.
2. Air Conditioner Mold
Vehicle air conditioning units can occasionally develop mold, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health risks. If mold reappears consistently and cannot be effectively eliminated, it may be regarded as a defect in the system.
3. Anti-Lock Braking System Failure
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) plays a crucial role in ensuring a vehicle remains controllable forcefully braking. If the ABS is not functioning properly, it can greatly hinder your capacity to stop the vehicle safely, classifying it as a flaw that may fall under lemon law protections.
4. Body Problems
Deficiencies in construction, like ill-fitting panels, doors that fail to shut correctly, or water leaks, can affect the vehicle’s appearance and safety. If these problems persist despite several repair efforts, they might be eligible for protection under Lemon law.
5. Brake Pedal Failure
Should the brake pedal malfunction or stop responding, it creates an urgent danger for both the driver and other road users. Failures in the braking system are significant issues that could lead to potential legal claims under Lemon law.
6. Defective Seat Belts
Seat belts play an essential role in ensuring safety, and any issues like improper latching, retraction, or securement can put passengers at risk. Defects in seat belts frequently meet the criteria for lemon law claims because of their significant safety concerns.
7. Electrical Problems
Contemporary automobiles depend significantly on electrical systems for operating various features, including windows and locks, as well as essential functions such as engine management and braking. Ongoing electrical issues can hinder a vehicle’s performance, potentially qualifying it for lemon law protection.
8. Engine Computer and Cruise Control Malfunctions
Malfunctions in the vehicle’s computer system or cruise control can lead to unpredictable actions, including unexpected acceleration or abrupt stops. Such problems pose serious safety risks, necessitating immediate attention from manufacturers.
9. Fuel Injection System Leaks
A malfunctioning fuel injection system that leaks can result in fires, engine breakdowns, or other hazardous situations. Should the manufacturer be unable to resolve this issue, it may result in a claim under Lemon law.
10. Fuel Line Defects That Can Cause Fires
Defects in fuel lines pose a serious safety risk due to the potential for fuel leaks, which elevate the chances of fire outbreaks. Should these issues remain unresolved despite several repair efforts, the consumer might qualify for a remedy under the lemon law.
11. Paint Defects
Damaged paint, such as peeling, chipping, or bubbling, can negatively impact both the look of a vehicle and its resale worth. Although these paint issues may not typically be viewed as safety concerns, significant defects that the manufacturer does not address could still be eligible for protection under lemon laws.
12. Power Steering Loss
When power steering malfunctions, it can severely hinder or completely obstruct the ability to steer the vehicle, particularly at slower speeds. These types of issues are significant safety risks and are generally covered by Lemon law protections.
13. Premature Brake/Rotor Wear
Excessive wear on brakes or rotors can diminish braking effectiveness and heighten the likelihood of accidents. If your braking system deteriorates rapidly, even with adequate upkeep, and the manufacturer does not address the problem, you might have a valid case for a lemon law claim.
14. Seat Belt Failure
If the seat belt system in your vehicle fails, it can seriously endanger the safety of passengers. Persistent problems with seat belts that are not resolved might qualify for coverage under Lemon law.
15. Steering Pull
Steering pull occurs when a vehicle drifts to one side while traveling in a straight line, creating potential safety hazards, particularly at increased speeds. Manufacturers must rectify such problems; neglecting this responsibility might lead to a lemon law claim.
16. Stalling
Unexpected intermittent stalling can create hazardous conditions while driving. If a vehicle frequently breaks down and the problem is not fixed, it could be classified as a lemon.
17. Sudden Acceleration and Surge
Unexpected and unintentional acceleration is a serious flaw that can lead to accidents. Should your vehicle experience this problem and the manufacturer can’t fix it after multiple tries, it qualifies as a significant safety issue under the Lemon law.
18. Uncontrolled Acceleration
Like unexpected surges, unrestrained acceleration can hinder a driver’s ability to control their vehicle. This problem greatly impacts the vehicle’s performance and safety, and according to California lemon law Lawyer, consumers are safeguarded in these circumstances.
Does Every Defect Qualify Under Lemon Law?
To qualify under the Lemon law, a defect must satisfy specific criteria:
- Significant Defect: The flaw must greatly hinder the vehicle’s functionality, worth, or safety. Minor problems, like superficial scratches, typically do not meet this criterion.
- Adequate Repair Opportunities: The manufacturer or authorized service provider should have been allowed a reasonable number of chances to rectify the defect. Typically, this ranges from two to four attempts based on how serious the defect is.
- Time Restriction or Mileage Cap: The defect should arise within a specified period or mileage after acquiring or leasing the vehicle, usually set at 18 months or 18,000 miles—whichever occurs first.
You could qualify for a valid lemon law claim if your vehicle meets these criteria. The experts at McMillan Law Group are available to assist you in assessing your vehicle’s eligibility and guiding you through the subsequent steps.
When Car Manufacturers Cut Corners, We Hold Them Accountable
Defects in vehicles can pose serious risks, potentially resulting in fatal accidents. When auto manufacturers overlook critical issues or skimp on safety measures, they jeopardize the safety of their customers. At McMillan Law Group, we are committed to ensuring that these companies are held responsible for their carelessness.
We recognize how upsetting it can be to handle a faulty vehicle, and we are dedicated to holding manufacturers accountable for their mistakes. If you think you may have purchased or leased a faulty vehicle, it’s crucial to take action quickly.
How We Help Lemon Law Clients
Our skilled lemon law lawyers are ready to provide you with tailored legal support. We manage all aspects of the lemon law procedure, which encompasses:
- Case Assessment: We offer a complimentary first consultation to assess your situation and see if your vehicle meets the criteria for Lemon Law.
- Document Gathering: We assist you in collecting and arranging all essential documents, such as repair logs, vehicle warranties, and any communication with the dealer or manufacturer.
- Legal Advocacy: If needed, we will advocate for you in negotiations with the manufacturer or represent you in court to seek a replacement vehicle, a refund, or compensation for your faulty car.
Have Questions About California’s Lemon Law? Contact Our Firm Today!
Should you have concerns about defects in your vehicle and wish to learn about your rights under California lemon law, McMillan Law Group is here to assist you. Our team has been advocating for consumer rights since 1987, ensuring that manufacturers are held accountable for their defective products.
Don’t allow car troubles to interfere with your daily routine. Reach out to us today for a complimentary consultation at +1 619-795-9430 or fill out our online form. Our dedicated legal team is ready to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the justice you are entitled to.