Do you own a lemon?
If you own or lease a defective vehicle in California, you could qualify for a refund, cash settlement, or vehicle replacement.
![customer service rep](https://lemonlawyers.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/customer-service-rep.png)
How the California Lemon Law can
help you
The California Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers like you from being stuck with a defective vehicle and taken advantage of by shady car dealerships and manufacturers. This law outlines the specific steps that you can take to get compensation in one of three ways as outlined below.
Refund or Buyback
You get reimbursed for the total cost of your vehicle.
Cash Settlement
You can keep your car but you get paid for the repair problems.
Replacement Vehicle
Your vehicle is replaced with a brand new unit.
California Lemon Law Qualifications
If your vehicle meets any one of these criteria, it could be a lemon!
MAJOR SAFETY DEFECT
At least two repair attempts have been done on the vehicle for a substantial safety defect that can potentially cause serious bodily injury or death.
FOUR REPAIR ATTEMPTS
At least four repair attempts have been done on the new vehicle for the same non-serious safety defect or issue.
30 DAYS IN THE SHOP
The vehicle is in the repair shop and can’t be used for a total of more than 30 days (cumulative) for any combination of defects.
Your California Lemon Law Team
![Attorney Jonathan Shirian - Quill Arrow Law](https://lemonlawyers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Lemon-Lawyer-Jonathan-Shirian-Quill-Arrow.jpg)
ATTY. JONATHAN S., ESQ.
Managing Partner
![Kevin Jacobson, Esq., managing partner at Quill & Arrow Law. Lemon Law attorney.](https://lemonlawyers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jacobson_-Kevin-Edit-2-scaled-1.jpg)
ATTY. KEVIN J., ESQ.
Managing Partner
![quillandarrow-13-scaled Nicholas Yowarski, associate lawyer, quill and arrow](https://lemonlawyers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/quillandarrow-13-scaled-1.jpg)
ATTY. NICHOLAS Y., ESQ.
Associate Attorney
What Our California Clients Say About Us
Jonathan S.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
I've had my car in and out of the dealer for months trying to get the Infotainment system and Check Engine Light issues fixed. I took the chance and got a free consultation with Lemon Lawyers California and after they explained the process to me, it all went smoothly from there.
Kimberly S.
lOS ANGELES, ca
What truly stood out was his unwavering honesty and transparency in providing advice and guidance. I am extremely grateful for the favorable resolution of my case, and I will not hesitate to refer friends and family to Kevin and his team should they ever require similar assistance.
Shane R.
lOS ANGELES, CA
From my initial contact to the final settlement, the process was smooth and easy. Kevin and their legal staff maintained contact throughout my case and got me a settlement that was more than fair. Thank you Lemon Lawyers California for all your help!
California Lemon Law Cases
California Lemon Law
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The law covers new cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and other motor vehicles purchased or leased for personal, family, or household use.
A vehicle qualifies as a lemon if it has substantial defects that affect its safety, value, or use, and if these defects persist after a reasonable number of repair attempts. Typically, a vehicle is considered a lemon if it has been in the shop for 30 days or more for repairs within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles.
Read: The CA Lemon Law Fully Explained: Statute, Process, & Common Missteps to Avoid
If you suspect your vehicle is a lemon, document all repair attempts and communications with the dealer or manufacturer. Then, contact an attorney specializing in California Lemon Law to discuss your case and potential remedies.
First, gather all relevant documents, including repair orders and warranty information. Next, contact the manufacturer or dealer to give them a final opportunity to fix the problem. If the issue remains unresolved, you may file a complaint with the manufacturer or take legal action with the help of an attorney.
Read: How to File a Lemon Law Claim in California in 4 Easy Steps
You generally have four years from the date you first experience the defect to file a Lemon Law claim. However, it is advisable to act as soon as possible to ensure the best chance of a successful outcome.
If your vehicle is deemed a lemon, you are entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, minus any usage fees. You may also be reimbursed for expenses related to the defective vehicle, such as towing and rental car costs.
Yes, under the California Lemon Law, if you win your case, the manufacturer is required to pay your reasonable attorney fees and court costs. This helps ensure that consumers can seek justice without worrying about legal expenses.
Read: California Lemon Law Attorney Fees: Who Pays For Your Legal Costs?
You will need to provide repair orders, receipts, and any correspondence with the dealer or manufacturer regarding the defects. Additionally, keeping a detailed log of repair attempts and the vehicle's issues will strengthen your claim.
Read: 12 Essential Documents To File A Lemon Law Claim in California