Can Cosmetic Issues Qualify for a Lemon Law Claim?

If you are concerned about a cosmetic problem indicating a defect in your vehicle, you may wonder if it’s worth pursuing a lemon law claim. Before you make a decision, it’s worth understanding what vehicle problem counts as a defect.

Under the California Lemon Law, a vehicle problem counts as a defect if it is a manufacturing problem that substantially impairs the use, value or safety of the vehicle and cannot be fixed within a reasonable number of repair attempts.

Most cosmetic problems may not substantially impair the use, value or safety of the vehicle. If your problem does not impair the use, value or safety of your vehicle, you likely will not have a claim. However, it is possible for a defect to appear cosmetic at first, only to cause serious problems later.

Other components regarding cosmetic problems include whether the problems are included in the manufacturer’s warranty and how quickly the auto manufacturer or its dealerships can resolve them. Many auto manufacturers’ warranties do not cover cosmetic damage to the vehicle, and many cosmetic issues can be easily resolved.

If you are not sure whether your vehicle problems rise to the level of the potential defect, get a free consultation with a lemon law attorney.