Flames and Frustration From My 2021 Jeep Wrangler

DEAR SUZANNE

By Suzanne Henderson
LETTER 99 – March 2023 | Fire-hazard Owner

Dear Suzanne,

I recently experienced a series of concerning events with my 2021 Jeep Wrangler, which I purchased new from an authorized Jeep dealership, with no aftermarket parts and only 23,000 miles, I’ve already had to bring it in twice for engine oil leaks. The first repair occurred at 10,000 miles, but the issue resurfaced later in a potentially dangerous situation.

While driving on the freeway, I noticed other drivers gesturing at me, but I didn’t understand why. Soon after, I smelled smoke and pulled over to find the underside of my vehicle on fire. Thanks to the quick thinking of a good Samaritan, the fire was extinguished before causing significant damage. The dealership confirmed that this incident was due to another engine oil leak. Understandably, I’m now looking to get rid of this vehicle and would like to learn more about my options under California’s lemon law.

Fire-hazard Owner

Navigating California Lemon Law and Your Rights

Dear Fire-hazard Owner,

I’m sorry to hear about your alarming experiences with your Jeep Wrangler. Based on your account, it’s evident that your vehicle is defective, and exploring your options under California’s lemon law is a wise decision.

In California, a vehicle is considered a lemon if it has been to the dealership at least twice for the same issue or three or more times for different issues. Given your circumstances, your vehicle may qualify for relief under lemon law. Generally, lemon law covers vehicles still under the manufacturer’s warranty.

Since your Jeep is under warranty, you have two main options:

Buyback: If you choose to part with the vehicle, the manufacturer may offer to buy it back, reimbursing you for the down payment, monthly payments, taxes, and interest. If you have a loan, the manufacturer will pay it off, preventing any negative impact on your credit. However, they may deduct a mileage offset based on the mileage at your first visit.

Cash and Keep: This option allows you to receive cash compensation for the vehicle’s issues while retaining ownership. This way, if the dealership can repair the car, you can keep it without voiding the warranty. It also enables you to sell the vehicle without labeling it as a lemon.

As your case progresses, you may continue to take your car to the dealership for repairs. Ensure you document all visits and repairs, and remember that you shouldn’t be charged for any repairs under warranty.

California is a consumer-friendly state for lemon law cases, so your attorney will likely take your case on a contingency basis. This means you won’t be charged for their services, regardless of the outcome. In California, the manufacturer covers legal fees, and you receive 100% of the settlement.

Suzanne

PS. If you think your vehicle sucks and want to actually do something about it, you definitely can! Find out quickly if you have a case by visiting www.yourvehiclesucks.com right now. This website is owned by our partner law firm Quill & Arrow LLP, California’s #1 “settled” Lemon Law attorneys.

Free Legal Advice About Your 2021 Jeep Wrangler Lemon Law Claim

Dear reader, are your vehicle problems ruining your life? Confused about what legal route to take? We’re here to help! Find information about California’s lemon law protections here, fill out the form on this page, or give us a call at (323) 553-7525 to discuss your situation with someone who understands how frustrating it can be to have a lemon car, and what to do about it.

DEAR SUZANNE is a weekly column written by Suzanne Henderson and published in LemonLawyers.ORG. If you have a defective lemon vehicle and have questions about CA Lemon Lawyer or how to file a claim in California, please write to [email protected]. While not guaranteed, we will try to feature your letter in this column to provide you the answers you need, as well as enlighten other consumers who may have lemon problems similar to yours.

Disclaimer: Suzanne Henderson is not a lawyer and the points discussed here are intended for general information and reference purposes only and not to be construed as legal advice. Please consult a CA Lemon Law Attorney to get proper legal advice about your lemon law claim.

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Featured Image:

• 2021 Jeep Wrangler ©Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0 License)