How to Avoid Purchasing a Lemon Car: Tips for Buyers

Home » Auto Buying Guide » How to Avoid Purchasing a Lemon Car: Tips for Buyers

Reviewed By: Roger Kirnos

Buying or leasing a vehicle is a significant investment, and you’re hoping the vehicle will serve as reliable transportation. If you’re looking for a vehicle in California, buyer beware! Over 150,000 estimated vehicles sold in California are lemons, and many more vehicles on the road in California have unrepaired safety recall defects. According to CarFax, there were 6.3 million unrepaired vehicles on California roads in 2021.

If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle in California, follow these tips to narrow your chances of purchasing a lemon.

Tip 1: Research Your Vehicle

Before making a purchase, research the make and model of the vehicle you’re interested in. Look for reviews and ratings from other consumers, as well as any known defects or issues with the vehicle.

Tip 2: Check Your Vehicle History

Obtain a vehicle history report to check for any accidents, repairs, or other issues with the vehicle. That way, you can identify potential red flags before buying or leasing a possible lemon.

Tip 3: Inspect The Vehicle

Have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic. The inspection can uncover hidden defects or issues with the vehicle that otherwise would not be immediately apparent.

Tip 4: Take It For A Test Drive

Make sure to take the vehicle for a test drive and pay attention to how it handles, any unusual sounds or vibrations, and any dashboard warning lights.

Tip 5: Read The Warranty

Make sure to check if the vehicle comes with any warranties or guarantees. This can provide added protection in case the vehicle turns out to be a lemon.

Tip 6: Purchase From A Reputable Dealer

Purchasing from a reputable dealer can provide added protection and support in case there are any issues with the vehicle. In any case, purchasing from a licensed dealership in California (as opposed to an auction or private sale) would preserve your California Lemon Law rights.

By taking these steps, you can help reduce the risk of purchasing a lemon vehicle in California.

What If You End Up With A Lemon Vehicle Anyway

If you do end up with a lemon, it’s important to remember that you have legal rights under the California Lemon Law. Our team of lemon law specialists is here to help you understand your options and pursue a claim for compensation.

If you have any questions or concerns about the California Lemon Law, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our lemon law attorneys offer free consultations at 833-208-8181.