Audi Lemon Law Buyback Process: A Concise Guide

 

 
The Audi Lemon Law buyback option is a settlement agreement designed to provide redress to consumers who face persistent defects in their Audi vehicles they purchased or leased in California.

When consumers buy or lease an Audi sedan or coupe from an authorized dealership, they expect to be able to drive the vehicle without encountering any issues or hassles for the next few years.

But, when owners experience recurring problems with their Audi during regular usage, the situation starts to become troublesome. If the issue persists even after many attempts by the dealership to repair the vehicle, it can become unbearable, not to mention financially costly, for the consumer.

Fortunately, California’s robust lemon laws come to the rescue. You don’t have to remain stuck or tolerate a defective vehicle. Under the law, you have the right to receive compensation from Audi for your lemon vehicle.

In this article, we will examine the details of the Audi Lemon Law buyback option. We’ll explain how it works and the criteria your car must meet to qualify for compensation. Finally, you’ll learn about the affected Audi models and the reported defects in those.

 

 

What is the Audi Lemon Law Buyback Option?

The California Lemon Law offers a remedy known as a buyback or repurchase, which seeks to compensate you for the expenses incurred in purchasing or leasing a defective Audi vehicle, including the actual cost of purchase and associated costs.

Essentially, the Audi Lemon Law buyback settlement option occurs when the company agrees to repurchase the vehicle from a customer and provides a settlement amount that covers:

• The total amount you paid for the vehicle.
• Any sales and financing charges you incurred during purchase.
• Vehicle registration fees.
• Previous monthly payments you already made.
• Future monthly amortizations on your car loan.
• Out-of-pocket repair expenses.
• Collateral costs such as towing and car rental fees.
• Civil penalties, if applicable.

For any California consumer, it’s possible to win an Audi Lemon Law buyback or repurchase settlement option by:

• Out of court negotiations with Audi.
• Obtaining a favorable court decision.
• Pursuing an arbitration ruling.

In the following sections, we will dive deep into the buyback process and the qualifications necessary to receive compensation under this option. Meanwhile, watch the video below to gain further insights into this Lemon Law settlement option:

How Does The Audi Buyback Program Work?

The Audi buyback program enables the auto manufacturer to repurchase or buy back vehicles that are determined to be defective. This settlement option applies to both newly purchased or leased vehicles and used Audi vehicles, provided that the defects or issues arose within the original warranty period of the vehicle.

How do I get Audi to buy back my vehicle?

To obtain compensation, specific criteria must be met by your vehicle, and you must file a claim.

In order to qualify for this type of compensation under the California Lemon Law (also known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act), your defective vehicle must meet certain requirements. The defects or issues must be substantial enough to significantly impair the vehicle’s use, functionality, safety, and resale value. Additionally, Audi must have been aware of these defects, had the opportunity to repair them, and failed to do so after repeated attempts.

Is a buyback similar to a car trade-in?

No, a buyback is different from a car trade-in. A trade-in occurs when you exchange your old vehicle at its current market price for a discount when purchasing a new vehicle. In contrast, a lemon law buyback involves the company reimbursing you the full amount you paid for the car, along with other related expenses, as mentioned earlier.

In the upcoming section, we will explore the specific details regarding how your Audi vehicle can qualify as a lemon and become eligible for compensation.

 

Are You Entitled to An Audi Lemon Law Buyback for Your Vehicle?

Simply owning or leasing a defective Audi does not automatically make you eligible for compensation under the California Lemon Law. Your vehicle must meet at least one of the following criteria to be considered a lemon:

• The vehicle has undergone repairs for a major safety defect (steering problems, transmission failures, suspension problems, etc.) at the Audi dealership at least twice.
• The vehicle has undergone repairs for a non-safety defect or problem at the dealership at least four times.
• The vehicle has been in the Audi dealership’s possession for repairs for a total of more than 30 days, encompassing any combination of defects.

According to the law, if any of these conditions are met within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles, your car is automatically assumed to be a lemon. This is known as the Legal Presumption of Lemon Law.

However, what happens if the car experiences problems after the initial 18 months or 18,000 miles?

Even outside of this timeframe, there is still a possibility for your car to qualify for compensation, granted that the ongoing defects or issues originated within the vehicle’s warranty period. Typically, this period is around 4 years or 50,000 miles for new vehicles or approximately 1 year or 20,000 miles for certified pre-owned vehicles. For more information about your specific coverage, please visit: Audi Warranty & Protection Plans.

 

 

Identifying Common Audi Vehicle Defects that Can Result in a Buyback

Although various Audi vehicle models may exhibit unique defects, there are certain common issues that can be observed across multiple models. Many Lemon Law claims against Audi stem from the presence of one or more of these issues. The following are a few examples of these issues:

Oil Leaks

While oil leaks can happen in most automobiles, it’s crucial to be mindful of the risk of leaks in an Audi. These leaks have been observed in the valve cover gasket or camshaft tensioner and should be dealt with promptly to prevent additional harm to the engine.

Rattling Engines

Rattling engines are a typical issue in colder seasons and may be due to the camshaft adjustment. If you notice any rattling or knocking noises subsequent to starting your vehicle, it is vital to take it back to the Audi dealership for an inspection.

Spark Plug Failures

Audis frequently encounter spark plug failure, which can result in ignition issues. To mitigate this, it is advisable to regularly replace spark plugs or consider using long-life plugs.

Worn Out Timing Belts

Timing belts in Audis are prone to wear and tear, and if left unaddressed, they can cause breakdowns, piston damage, and other complications. It is preferable to replace the timing belt before further damage ensues.

Electrical Issues

High-tech cars like Audis often encounter issues with electrical components, including head and tail lights. Problems can range from faulty lights to malfunctions in internal electronics like infotainment systems. If the issue persists, it is recommended to visit your dealership for a replacement.

Exhaust Component Failures

Exhaust component failure, often attributed to a faulty catalytic converter, is a prevalent Audi issue. However, it is crucial to identify the root cause of the problem before replacing the converter. Carbon build-up or a malfunctioning recirculation system can also contribute to the issue and should be promptly addressed.

Defective Airbags

Defective airbags pose a significant safety concern, particularly in vehicles equipped with faulty Takata airbag models. Audi vehicles have been subjected to a minimum of three safety recalls related to these defective Takata airbags:

• Safety Recall 69R6 – Driver Frontal Airbag (Takata)
• Safety Recall 69R7 – Passenger Frontal Airbag (Takata)
• Safety Recall 69S8 – Driver Frontal Airbag (Takata)

Recalls are issued to address defects related to motor vehicle safety and non-compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. It is crucial to prioritize safety by promptly addressing any recalls that affect your vehicle. To check if your Audi is subject to a safety recall, please visit the following page: Audi Recall/Service Campaign Lookup

Naturally, the defects mentioned above are not the sole criteria that may classify your vehicle as a lemon. It is possible that you are experiencing an entirely different problem with your Audi. However, it is important to bear in mind that any consistent or recurring defect or issue that significantly impairs the functionality, safety, or worth of the vehicle can be utilized as a foundation for lodging a complaint.

 

Audi Vehicle Models Eligible for Lemon Law Protection

Curious about which Audi models are protected by the Lemon Law? In California, the Lemon Law specifically covers the following Audi vehicle models:

SERIES	AUDI MODELS
Audi e-tron GT Series Electric executive cars	Audi e-tron GT; Audi RS e-tron GT;
Audi Q4 e-tron Series Electric Vehicles	Audi Q4 e-tron; Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron
Audi Q8 e-tron Series Electric Vehicles	Audi Q8 e-tron; Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron; Audi SQ8 e-tron; Audi SQ8 Sportback e-tron
Audi Q3 Series SUV	Audi Q3
Audi Q5 Series Crossover SUV	Audi Q5; Audi Q5 Sportback; Audi SQ5; Audi SQ5 Sportback
Audi Q7 Series Crossover SUV	Audi Q7; Audi SQ7
Audi Q8 Series Mid-size Crossover SUV	Audi Q8; Audi SQ8; Audi RS Q8
Audi A3 Series Sedan	Audi A3; Audi S3; Audi RS3
Audi A4 Series Sedan	Audi A4 Sedan; Audi A4 allroad quattro; Audi S4 Sedan
Audi A5 Series Coupe, Sportback, Cabriolet	Audi A5 Coupe; Audi S5 Coupe; Audi RS5 Coupe; Audi A5 Sportback; Audi S5 Sportback; Audi RS5 Sportback; Audi A5 Cabriolet; Audi S5 Cabriolet
Audi A6 Series Sedan	Audi A6 Sedan; Audi S6 Sedan; Audi A6 allroad quattro; Audi RS 6 Avant
Audi A7 Series Executive luxury five-door liftback	Audi A7; Audi S7; Audi RS 7
Audi A8 Series Full-size luxury sedan	Audi A8; Audi S8
Audi TT Series Sportscar	Audi TT Heritage
Audi R8 Series Electric Vehicle	Audi R8 Heritage

If you are a California resident and own a defective Audi vehicle (any of the models mentioned above) that is still within the original manufacturer’s warranty, you might be eligible to receive compensation.

Our team currently assists owners of the above-mentioned models from the years 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 with their Lemon Law claims.

 

 

The Audi Buyback Process: Basic Steps

The Audi buyback process under California’s Lemon Law is generally straightforward. The typical procedure includes the following steps:

Getting the Required Number of Repair Visits

It is crucial to complete this step not only for safety reasons but also to fulfill the legal criteria for the car to be considered a lemon. In some cases, if the number of repair visits does not meet the requirement, your attorney may advise you to return your vehicle to the dealership for additional repairs. This will help ensure that you satisfy the necessary requirements for pursuing your Lemon Law claim.

Hiring an Attorney

Regardless of the method you choose (litigation, arbitration, or negotiation), having an experienced and knowledgeable California Lemon Law attorney by your side will greatly increase your chances of success. They will offer expert guidance throughout the process and advocate on your behalf to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Compiling Evidence

Properly documenting all your repair visits is essential and goes without saying. The documentation includes repair orders and invoices provided by the Audi dealership each time you take your car in for repairs. Additionally, other documents such as warranty papers, purchase or lease receipts, financing documents, towing fees, and out-of-pocket repair receipts may be necessary to support your case.

Filing Your Claim in Court

Once all the required documentary evidence is obtained, your attorney will begin the process of filing a lawsuit. After the case is officially filed, Audi will be obligated to adhere to a strict timeline when responding to your compensation claim. This timeline ensures a timely progression of the legal proceedings, leading to a swift resolution of your case.

Please note that filing an individual lawsuit under Lemon Law is distinct from participating in the multiple class-action lawsuits that Audi currently faces for various vehicle problems. If you choose to file a claim, you must exclude yourself from any ongoing class-action lawsuit that pertains to the particular defect in your vehicle and for which a law firm has sent you an inclusion notice.

Negotiating with Audi

In our experience handling Lemon Law cases in California, it is common for manufacturers to opt for an out-of-court settlement. They do so because they understand that our attorneys would not file a claim without substantial supporting evidence. To avoid a lengthy and costly legal battle they are likely to lose, manufacturers are generally prepared to negotiate a settlement agreement.

Litigating Your Case

In the event that Audi’s settlement offer, which may include a buyback, cash compensation, or vehicle replacement, is deemed unacceptable to you, be assured that your attorney is ready to take legal action on your behalf in court. Their goal is to obtain a more favorable settlement proposal for your faulty Audi and ensure that you receive fair compensation.

 

Audi Lemon Law Case Examples

Here are several examples of Audi Lemon Law cases in California, showcasing various models and specific issues that consumers have experienced:

2021 Audi Q5 With Several Repair Issues

When the dealership omits to properly document repair visits for this 2021 Audi Q5 with a defective mirror, check oil level, auto start/stop, faulty radio, and malfunctioning locks issues, the owner smells something fishy and wants to know what his Lemon Law options are.

2022 Audi E-Tron GT Nearly Killed Owner

When this 2022 Audi E-Tron GT stalled on the railway tracks and nearly got its owner killed, he felt insulted that the dealership was being dismissive of his experience treating the incident as a routine outdated computer software issue. Faced with other issues (defective rear camera, misaligned headlights, car not syncing with app), he’s now trying to find a way out.

It Rains Inside This 2022 Audi Q5

When rainwater during a heavy downpour started leaking into the interior of this 2022 Audi Q5, it messed up the car’s electrical system and endangered an entire family. The owner reported the car lights going off and on for no reason, the lane assist stopped functioning, the turn off car alarm went off, and finally the car shutting down abruptly in the middle of the road.

 

 

Alternative Audi Settlement Options Under Lemon Law

In addition to the Audi Buyback settlement outcome, there are other alternatives through which the auto manufacturer can compensate you for the lemon vehicle. The two most common options are Vehicle Replacement and Cash and Keep Settlement.

Vehicle Replacement

If you choose to accept the vehicle replacement option, the law requires that the replacement vehicle be substantially identical to your original vehicle and carry the same warranties. Any add-on options you paid for, such as rust proofing or undercoating, must also be applied to the replacement vehicle.

Under this arrangement, Audi is also obligated to reimburse you for any additional expenses you incurred due to the vehicle’s issues, such as out-of-pocket repair costs, towing charges, and car rental fees.

Cash and Keep Settlement

If the defects or issues in your Audi are not severe enough to warrant a buyback or replacement, you can still file a claim for compensation. This applies to problems that may lower the vehicle’s resale value but do not impact its safety or ability to be driven. Examples of such defects include paint issues, engine noises, or sunroof noise.

In this scenario, the court may order Audi to pay you a set amount of cash as compensation for the repair issues and additional expenses you incurred, while allowing you to keep the vehicle.

 

Audi Lemon Law Buyback: The Best Settlement Outcome

Under the Audi Lemon Law buyback arrangement, the auto manufacturer commits to repurchasing the defective vehicle and compensating you for the full amount you originally paid for the vehicle.

However, it’s important to note that there may be slight deductions, known as Mileage Offset, applied to the final settlement amount. This is to account for the usage of the vehicle prior to the onset of repair issues.

Despite these deductions, opting for the buyback option ensures that you not only recover the entire amount you paid for the vehicle, but you will also be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses you incurred for repairs, towing, and temporary rental vehicles during the repair process.

All things considered, the Audi Lemon Law Buyback settlement is undeniably the most advantageous resolution for a Lemon Law claim involving a defective Audi in California.

 
Watch VIDEO: Hire an Audi Lemon Law Attorney Free of Charge

 

Talk to an Audi Lemon Law Lawyer ASAP

Are you unsure of your next steps? If you own a defective Audi vehicle in California and are facing ongoing issues covered by the warranty, which Audi has been unable to resolve despite numerous attempts, you may be eligible for compensation.

Initiate a Lemon Law claim immediately with the assistance of an experienced Audi Lemon Law attorney. Your lawyer will skillfully evaluate your claim, provide personalized legal guidance, and help you navigate through the claims process.

And here’s the best part. You won’t have to pay anything out of pocket for these services. That’s right! You can have a top-notch attorney on your side without any financial burden. Lemon Law attorneys in California operate on a “no win-no fee” basis, meaning their attorney fees are covered by the manufacturer as part of the settlement, and they only receive payment if they win your case!

There’s no need to overthink this situation. It’s time to take action and secure the compensation that you rightfully deserve. Remember, the law is on your side, and you don’t need to get stuck with a lemon!

 

 

ABOUT AUDI

Audi AG is a luxury automotive manufacturer headquartered in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany. As a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, Audi operates nine production facilities worldwide.

Audi vehicles are renowned for their stylish designs, advanced all-wheel drive systems, and high-end interiors, offering a luxurious driving experience. The brand also maintains an exclusive image that appeals to high end market customers. However, it appears that some Audi owners have had experiences that do not align with this gilded reputation.

The brand has a history of issues, particularly with certain models like the 2011 Audi A4. Owners of these vehicles have reported problems such as blown cylinders, significant oil leaks, and electronic failures.

In the United States, Audi sales declined during the 1980s due to a series of recalls involving the Audi 5000 models. These recalls were prompted by reported incidents of sudden unintended acceleration, which were linked to six deaths and 700 accidents. During that time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was investigating multiple car models from various manufacturers for similar power surges.

In 2015, Audi admitted its involvement in the Volkswagen emissions testing scandal. Approximately 2.1 million Audi cars were implicated in this scandal, where software installed in the vehicles manipulated emissions data to deceive regulators and allow higher levels of pollution than permitted by federal regulations. The affected models included the A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, TT, Q3, and Q5. Audi pledged to promptly find a technical solution and update the cars to comply with emissions standards.