Is your vehicle a lemon?

California Lemon Law stipulates certain conditions under which a car may be eligible for legal action:

•   Your car has problems that affect its use, value, or safety;
•   These problems are covered by your manufacturer’s warranty; and
•   The vehicle is still defective after you have given your dealership or repair shop a reasonable number of opportunities to repair it.

The law does not define a specific number of repair attempts needed before filing a claim. A vehicle may, however, be considered a lemon if, within 18 months or 18,000 miles:

•   The defect isn’t fixed within four attempts;
•   A potentially dangerous defect isn’t fixed within two attempts; or
•   The vehicle has been in the repair shop for over 30 days in total.

It’s important to note, however, that the 18 month/18,000 mile guideline is not a requirement to file a lemon law claim—the number of repair attempts required varies on a case-by-case basis.

If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, contact us at 877-217-7676. We’ll examine the specifics of your situation and help you determine whether you’re covered under California’s lemon laws or under other consumer protection laws.

Bought a lemon? Here’s what to do.

If you recently purchased or leased a vehicle in the Bay Area and have been in and out of the shop, here’s what you should do:

1. Save all documentation: To build a case, you’ll need your bill of sale or lease agreement, the work orders from each repair attempt, the manufacturer’s warranty, and any other receipts related to the costs incurred as a result of the defects.

2. Notify the manufacturer: California law requires that the manufacturer be given the opportunity to repair the vehicle before you can file a claim.

3. Consult a San Francisco lemon law attorney: If the issue still has not been fixed, contact Lemon Law Help for guidance. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and answer any questions you have about the legal process.

Need a lemon law attorney in the Bay Area? Our legal team can help you get the compensation you deserve.

We’ve helped thousands of vehicle owners like you reach favorable settlements. While we can’t guarantee or predict specific outcomes, successful lemon law cases can result in significant compensation, including:

•   A replacement vehicle;
•   A refund minus mileage-based deduction;
•   Compensation up to 3x your vehicle’s purchase price;
•   Covered legal fees and costs.

For a free consultation with a lemon law attorney in San Francisco, call 877-217-7676.

What types of vehicles are covered under lemon law?

California lemon law applies to any new or used vehicle with a manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty, including:

•   Cars, motorcycles, and light trucks (i.e., vans, pickup trucks, and SUVs);
•   Motorhomes (chassis and chassis cab only);
•   Dealer-owned vehicles;
•   Leased vehicles; and
•   Commercial vehicles weighing <10,000 lbs (owned by a business with no more than five registered vehicles)

Do used cars qualify under California lemon law?

Most used cars do not qualify under the California Lemon Law. An exception exists for used cars that are “Certified Pre-Owned.” These CPO cars have been inspected by the manufacturer before being resold and comply with certain rules under the Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights.

Are leased vehicles and motorcycles covered under California lemon law?

Yes, California’s lemon law covers leased vehicles and motorcycles that are still under the manufacturer’s warranty. If these vehicles meet the criteria for a lemon, you may be entitled to compensation.

How much does it cost to hire a San Francisco lemon law attorney?

Lemon law attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any upfront fees. In successful cases, the manufacturer is typically responsible for paying attorney’s fees and other legal costs. In the unlikely event of an unsuccessful case, you will not be responsible for paying your attorney.

How long does the lemon law process typically take?

It can be difficult to predict the length of the legal process; it could take anywhere from a few months to over a year. The timeline could be influenced by the complexity of your case, the responsiveness of the manufacturer, and the San Francisco Superior Court’s schedule.

What documentation do I need to get a lemon law claim started in San Francisco?

For a successful lemon law case, you will need the following:

•   Purchase or lease agreement
•   Repair records and invoices
•   Communication records with the dealership or manufacturer
•   Warranty information
•   Any additional evidence showing the defect and attempts to repair it
•   Any other related receipts, such as towing fees, rental car agreements, etc.

Do I need to meet with a San Francisco lemon law attorney in person?

No, it is not necessary to meet with us in person. We offer in-person, phone, and virtual consultations. For a remote consultation, we’ll ask that you send us any and all documentation by fax or email.

Our address is:

1331 North California Blvd, Ste 205
Walnut Creek, CA 94596

What is a typical California lemon law settlement?

Settlements can vary depending on the specifics of each case, but can often include:

•   A refund of the purchase price
•   Reimbursement for repair costs
•   Replacement of the defective vehicle
•   Compensation of up to 3x the purchase price

The exact amount will depend on factors such as the vehicle’s price, the extent of the defect, and any additional damages incurred.

During your consultation, we’ll review your case and give you an idea of its potential worth.

What if my vehicle doesn’t meet all of California’s lemon law requirements?

If your vehicle doesn’t meet California’s lemon law requirements, you may still have options. State and federal consumer protection laws could apply, or you may be able to negotiate a settlement with the manufacturer. Our attorneys can help you understand your options and determine the best course of action.

Should I get a lemon lawyer in San Francisco for my case?

Yes, it is generally advisable to consult with a San Francisco lemon law attorney. We have a deep understanding of California’s lemon laws and extensive experience handling these types of cases. We’ll help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with the manufacturer, and, if necessary, represent you in court.