Inside Look: Understanding the Dodge Lemon Law Buyback Process

 
If you’re experiencing stress and frustration due to a defective Dodge vehicle, there’s a solution available. The California Lemon Law provides an opportunity for consumers dealing with consistently faulty vehicles to address the issue once and for all, get rid of the problematic vehicle, and potentially receive compensation from Dodge.

In this article, we will get right into the details of the Dodge Lemon Law Buyback Settlement Option. We’ll discuss what it involves, how it works, common Dodge defects, affected models, how to determine your eligibility for compensation, and the essential first step to filing a successful Lemon Law claim. So let’s begin and explore these important aspects!

What is the Dodge Lemon Law Buyback Option?

The California Lemon Law, also known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, provides a solution called a buyback or repurchase, aiming to compensate individuals for expenses related to the purchase or lease of a defective Dodge vehicle.

To put it simply, the Dodge Lemon Law buyback settlement option entails the agreement by the company to repurchase the vehicle from the customer. The settlement amount provided includes the following components:

• The full amount you paid for the vehicle.
• Any sales and financing charges incurred during purchase.
• Vehicle registration fees.
• Monthly amortizations made.
• All subsequent monthly payments.
• Out-of-pocket repair expenses.
• Incidental expenses such as towing fees and car rental fees.

You can obtain a Dodge Lemon Law buyback or repurchase settlement option through the following means:

• Direct negotiations with the company.
• A court verdict.
• An arbitration ruling.

In the upcoming sections, we will explore the buyback process and the criteria for qualifying to receive compensation under this option. While you await further information, please take a moment to watch the following video that provides more insights into this Dodge Lemon Law settlement option:

How Does The Dodge Buyback Program Work?

Under the Dodge buyback program, the auto manufacturer repurchases or buys back vehicles that are determined to be defective. This option applies to both newly purchased or leased vehicles, as well as used Dodge vehicles, provided that the defects or issues arose within the original warranty period.

How do you get Dodge to buy back your defective vehicle?

To be eligible for compensation under California Lemon Law, your Dodge vehicle must have substantial defects or issues that severely impair its functionality, safety, and resale value. Additionally, Dodge must have been aware of these defects, given the opportunity to repair them, and made unsuccessful attempts to rectify the issues despite repeated efforts.

In the following section, we will delve into the specific details outlining how your vehicle can be classified as a lemon and qualify for compensation.

Is Your Vehicle Eligible for a Dodge Lemon Law Buyback Solution?

In order for your Dodge to be considered a lemon and qualify for compensation under California Lemon Law, it must meet one of the following criteria:

• The vehicle has been taken to the dealership at least two times for repairs related to a major safety defect.
• The vehicle has been taken to the Dodge dealership at least four times for repairs related to non-safety defects or issues.
• The vehicle has been stored at the dealership for a total of more than 30 days for any combination of defects.

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

But what if the car problems occur after the initial 18 months or 18,000 miles?

Even outside of this timeframe, your Dodge may still qualify for compensation if the ongoing defects or issues originated within the vehicle’s warranty period. Generally, the basic bumper-to-bumper warranty lasts for about 3 years, while the powertrain warranty usually extends to approximately 5 years. For more information, please refer to the Dodge Brand Limited Warranty Frequently Asked Questions page.

Frequent Dodge Vehicle Issues That Can Result in a Claim

While various Dodge vehicle models may have unique defects, there are some common issues that occur across multiple models. Many Lemon Law claims against Dodge stem from one or more of these problems. Here are a few examples:

• Electrical issues / TIPM failure
• Faulty airbags
• Transmission slippage/jerking
• Excessive oil consumption
• Defective seat belts
• Suspension issues
• Steering system defects
• Check engine light
• Engine overheating
• Premature brake and rotor wear
• Crash sensor malfunctioning
• Excessive oil consumption
• Knocking sound within engine
• Excessive vibration from engine and/or transmission
• Power steering failure

However, it is important to note that the mentioned defects are not the only ones that could qualify your vehicle as a lemon. You may be experiencing a completely different issue with your Dodge. Just remember that any persistent or recurring defect or problem that significantly affects the vehicle’s usage, safety, or value can be used as grounds for filing a complaint.

Dodge Automobiles That May Qualify for Lemon Law Protection

So, which Dodge models fall under the Lemon Law protection in California? The Lemon Law covers the following Dodge branded vehicle models:

• Dodge Caravan (Minivan)
• Dodge Challenger (Coupe / Convertible)
• Dodge Charger (Mid-size Sedan)
• Dodge Dart (Compact Sedan)
• Dodge Durango (SUV)
• Dodge Journey (SUV)

If you’re a California resident who owns a faulty Dodge (any of the aforementioned models) that is still under the manufacturer’s original warranty, you could be eligible for compensation.

We offer support for Lemon Law claims for models listed above from model years 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, to 2024.

Dodge Lemon Law Case Examples

Presented below are a range of Dodge Lemon Law case examples that showcase various models and specific issues encountered by consumers:

2019 Dodge Challenger Needs $20,000 To Get Repaired

The problems with this 2019 Dodge Challenger began with a relatively minor issue of a broken electric window button. However, the situation rapidly escalated when a defective motor mount caused the leakage of hydraulic fluid. To make matters worse, the owner encountered transmission-related issues and took the car back to the shop for repairs. Shockingly, they were informed that fixing the transmission would require a substantial cost ranging from approximately $15,000 to $20,000.

2019 Dodge Charger Chewing Through Tires

The suspension of this 2019 Dodge Charger had undergone modifications at some stage, resulting in the owner now facing a recurring issue of rapidly worn-out tires. Incredibly, three different tires have worn out within the span of just four days. Adding to the frustration, the dealership declined to offer a loaner car to the owner despite keeping their vehicle for an entire month to address the problem.

A Guide to the Dodge Buyback Process

Under California Lemon Law, the Dodge buyback process is generally uncomplicated. The following steps are typically involved in this procedure:

Getting Your Car Repaired

This step is crucial. It is necessary for Dodge to have been aware of the defects in your car and made an adequate number of repair attempts. This is a legal requirement, and if the number of repair visits falls short, your attorney may advise you to take your vehicle back to the shop a few more times to fulfill this requirement. This will help ensure that you meet the necessary criteria for pursuing your Lemon Law claim.

Getting Professional Representation

As a California consumer, you have the opportunity to pursue a Lemon Law claim in order to seek compensation for a defective Dodge. You have various options available, including negotiating directly with the manufacturer, filing a case, or engaging in arbitration. Whichever method you opt for, having a knowledgeable and skilled California Lemon Law attorney by your side will significantly enhance your chances of success. They will provide expert guidance throughout the process, advocating on your behalf to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.

Building Your Case

The key documentary evidence to strengthen your case will largely consist of the repair orders and invoices provided by the Dodge dealership each time your car undergoes repairs. In addition, it may be necessary to provide supplementary documents such as warranty papers, purchase or lease receipts, financing documents, towing fees, and out-of-pocket repair receipts as required. By ensuring you have compiled all of these documents, you can provide solid support for your case.

Suing Dodge

Once all necessary documentary evidence has been gathered, your lawyer will initiate the process of filing a case in court. Once the case is officially filed, Dodge will be bound by a strict timeline to respond to your claim for compensation. This timeline ensures that the legal proceedings progress in a timely manner and allows for a swift resolution to your case.

Negotiating a Settlement

Based on our experience handling Lemon Law cases in California, it is common for manufacturers to choose to settle the claim outside of court. This is mainly because they are aware that our attorneys will not file a claim without substantial evidence to support it. By settling out of court, Dodge can avoid the potential risks and costs associated with a lengthy legal battle they are certain to lose.

Going to Trial

If by chance Dodge’s settlement offer (which may include buyback, cash compensation, or vehicle replacement) is deemed unacceptable to you, rest assured that your lawyer is fully prepared to take legal action in court on your behalf. Their objective is to secure a more advantageous settlement offer for the defective Dodge and to ensure that you are justly compensated.

Reaching A Settlement

Regardless of whether your Dodge Lemon Law claim reaches a final settlement through negotiation or a court verdict, you can rest assured that your lawyer will put forth their utmost effort to secure the maximum potential recovery to fulfill your claim. Your attorney will diligently advocate for your rights and work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Additional Dodge Settlement Options Available under Lemon Law

In addition to the Dodge Buyback settlement option, there are other alternatives available through which the auto manufacturer can provide compensation for the defective vehicle. The two primary options are Vehicle Replacement and Cash-and-Keep Settlement.

Vehicle Replacement

Instead of a buyback, Dodge may offer to replace the defective vehicle with a similar make and model that is free from any defects or issues covered under the Lemon Law. This option allows you to have a fully functional vehicle without the ongoing problems.

Cash and Keep Settlement

Alternatively, Dodge may provide a cash settlement that allows you to keep the defective vehicle. This negotiated amount is intended to compensate for the diminished value of the vehicle due to the ongoing issues. With this option, you have the flexibility to keep the vehicle while also receiving financial compensation for its defects.

These settlement options can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the negotiations with the manufacturer. It is advisable to consult with a Lemon Law attorney who can guide you through the options and help you pursue the most suitable resolution for your situation.

Dodge Buyback: The Best Lemon Law Settlement Option

Under the Dodge Lemon Law buyback arrangement, the manufacturer agrees to repurchase the defective vehicle and provide compensation for the full amount initially paid for the vehicle.

Are there any deductions from the final settlement amount?

Yes. To ensure fairness in the settlement process, the law specifies that there may be minor deductions, known as Mileage Offset, to account for the usage of the vehicle prior to the emergence of repair issues.

However, with this option, you will not only recover the entire amount you paid for the vehicle but also receive reimbursement for all out-of-pocket expenses incurred for repairs, towing, and temporary rental vehicles during the repair period.

Taking all factors into consideration, the Dodge Buyback Settlement Option is undoubtedly the most advantageous resolution in a Lemon Law claim for a Dodge lemon in California.

Connect With a Dodge Lemon Law Lawyer Today

Not sure what to do next? If you are in possession of a defective Dodge in California and are facing ongoing issues or defects covered under the warranty period, which the manufacturer has been unsuccessful in resolving despite multiple attempts, you may be eligible for compensation.

The next steps are quite clear! Take action today and get the ball rolling on the Lemon Law process with the assistance of a competent Dodge Lemon Law lawyer. Your attorney will quickly and thoroughly evaluate your claim, provide tailored legal guidance, and help you navigate through the claims procedure.

And here’s the exciting part. Your attorney will render all these services at no charge to you. Yes, that’s right! You can have a top-notch lawyer supporting you without paying a single dime. The fact is, most reputable Lemon Law attorneys in California operate on a “no win-no fee” basis. This means their fees are covered by the settlement from Dodge, and they will only receive payment if they actually win your case!

There’s no need to overthink this move. It’s time for action to secure the rightful compensation you deserve. Remember, the law is on your side, and you should not have to bear the burden of dealing helplessly with a lemon.

ABOUT DODGE

Dodge, a division of Stellantis North America, is an American brand of automobiles. Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan, Dodge has a rich history of producing performance cars. For a significant period, Dodge served as Chrysler’s mid-priced brand above Plymouth.

The company was originally established as the Dodge Brothers Company machine shop in the early 1900s by the Dodge brothers, Horace Elgin Dodge and John Francis Dodge. Initially, Dodge supplied parts and assemblies to automakers in Detroit, such as Ford. In 1914, they expanded their operations and began manufacturing complete automobiles under the “Dodge Brothers” brand. Recognizing the potential, Chrysler acquired Dodge in 1928 to obtain their factory and dealership network, enhancing their competitiveness in the affordable car market, rivaled by Ford and Chevrolet.

Throughout the years, Dodge has gained prominence for its passenger cars and a diverse range of truck models. However, recognizing the immense popularity of their best-selling truck, the Dodge Ram, a decision was made to separate Dodge’s trucks into the independent Ram brand after nearly a century of manufacturing.

Dodge’s legacy is associated with the production of robustly built trucks over its 100-year existence. Like many other automotive manufacturers, Dodge has also faced Lemon Law claims involving certain defective models.