Lemon Law Eligibility: Does Your Car Qualify?
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Understanding Whether Your California Vehicle Qualifies as a Lemon
When we buy or lease a vehicle - especially at today’s prices - we expect it to work safely and reliably. Unfortunately, not every car leaves the factory free from defects. That’s why the California Lemon Law exists: to protect consumers who end up with a vehicle that has repeated, unfixable problems.
Below are the key factors that help determine whether your car may qualify for a California Lemon Law claim.
Below are the key factors that help determine whether your car may qualify for a California Lemon Law claim.
Key Signs Your Vehicle May Qualify Under the California Lemon Law
1. Your vehicle had the defect during an active warranty
The problem must have started while your vehicle was under the manufacturer’s warranty (factory, powertrain, or Certified Pre-Owned warranty).
2. The issue wasn’t caused by abuse or neglect
The defect must be the result of a factory-related problem, not damage caused by an accident or lack of maintenance.
3. You took the car to an authorized dealership for repairs
Lemon Law applies when repairs were attempted at a dealership, not an independent mechanic. Each visit helps establish your repair history.
4. The dealership made multiple repair attempts
California does not require a specific number of repairs. However, eligibility is often strong when the dealership made two or more attempts for a serious issue OR the vehicle spent 30 or more cumulative days in the shop for warranty repairs.
5. The defect affects the use, value, or safety of the vehicle
Examples include:
- Engine or transmission problems - Electrical or battery issues - EV or hybrid failures - Stalling, overheating, or warning lights - Safety-system malfunctions - Steering or brake issues
If the issue makes the car unsafe, unreliable, or unable to perform as intended, you may qualify.
The problem must have started while your vehicle was under the manufacturer’s warranty (factory, powertrain, or Certified Pre-Owned warranty).
2. The issue wasn’t caused by abuse or neglect
The defect must be the result of a factory-related problem, not damage caused by an accident or lack of maintenance.
3. You took the car to an authorized dealership for repairs
Lemon Law applies when repairs were attempted at a dealership, not an independent mechanic. Each visit helps establish your repair history.
4. The dealership made multiple repair attempts
California does not require a specific number of repairs. However, eligibility is often strong when the dealership made two or more attempts for a serious issue OR the vehicle spent 30 or more cumulative days in the shop for warranty repairs.
5. The defect affects the use, value, or safety of the vehicle
Examples include:
- Engine or transmission problems - Electrical or battery issues - EV or hybrid failures - Stalling, overheating, or warning lights - Safety-system malfunctions - Steering or brake issues
If the issue makes the car unsafe, unreliable, or unable to perform as intended, you may qualify.
Not Sure If Your Car Qualifies?
You’re not expected to figure this out alone.
Even if:
- The dealership says “no problem found”
- The issue is intermittent
- Different dealerships give you different answers
- Your warranty has expired
- You’re unsure how many repairs count
…your vehicle may still qualify under the California Lemon Law.
We will review your repair orders, warranty, and history to determine your options.
Even if:
- The dealership says “no problem found”
- The issue is intermittent
- Different dealerships give you different answers
- Your warranty has expired
- You’re unsure how many repairs count
…your vehicle may still qualify under the California Lemon Law.
We will review your repair orders, warranty, and history to determine your options.
Why Alemi Law Group Is the Right Choice
At Alemi Law Group, PC, we understand that a defective car can disrupt your life, cause stress, and put your safety at risk. Our job is to make the process clear and stress-free.
We help California consumers by:
- Reviewing your repair history
- Determining if your car qualifies
- Handling all communication with the manufacturer
- Pursuing a refund or replacement
- Making sure your rights are protected every step of the way
No Out-of-Pocket Costs
Under California Lemon Law, the manufacturer pays your attorney’s fees, so representation is free to you.
- Reviewing your repair history
- Determining if your car qualifies
- Handling all communication with the manufacturer
- Pursuing a refund or replacement
- Making sure your rights are protected every step of the way
No Out-of-Pocket Costs
Under California Lemon Law, the manufacturer pays your attorney’s fees, so representation is free to you.
Speak With a California Lemon Law Attorney
If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, let us review your case at no cost.
Call: (818) 946-9911
Email: info@alemilawgrp.com
We proudly represent consumers throughout all of California.
Call: (818) 946-9911 Email: info@alemilawgrp.comWe proudly represent consumers throughout all of California.
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