California Auto Recall Attorney

Experienced Lawyers in Sherman Oaks & the San Fernando Valley

If you purchased a defective vehicle and want to know if it is covered under California Lemon Law or auto recalls, it is important that you understand the specifics of these regulations. 

Lemon Law is a state regulation that protects the consumer from dealers and manufacturers. If your vehicle has defects that have yet to be repaired after a reasonable amount of time, then you may have a claim for reimbursement or replacement. If your vehicle is affected by an auto recall, it’s also crucial to understand how these recalls work and your rights under the law. An auto recall attorney can help you navigate this process and ensure you are properly compensated for your troubles.

Contact us today by calling (818) 960-1945 for a free consultation. Servicing Valencia, Sylmar, Los Angeles, and all of California.

Lemon Law Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you believe your vehicle is a "lemon," it’s important to understand the steps involved in filing a Lemon Law claim in California. Here’s a clear breakdown of the process:

Determine If Your Vehicle Qualifies:

• Your vehicle must have a substantial defect or condition that impairs its use, value, or safety.
• The defect must occur within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• The vehicle must have been in for repairs multiple times without a successful resolution.

Document the Defects and Repairs:

• Keep records of all repair attempts, including invoices, receipts, and descriptions of the problem.
• It’s essential to track the number of repair visits and the nature of the issue.

Notify the Manufacturer:

• If the dealer or repair shop cannot fix the defect, you may need to send a written notice to the manufacturer.
• This notice should inform them of the ongoing issues and your intention to pursue a Lemon Law claim.

Submit a Lemon Law Claim:

• Once your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you can file a claim for a refund or replacement.
• If the manufacturer refuses to settle, your claim may proceed to arbitration or litigation.

Timeframe for Pursuing a Lemon Law Claim

The clock starts ticking from the date you take delivery of the vehicle. Under California's Lemon Law:

• You have 18 months or 18,000 miles (whichever comes first) to file a claim.
• Once the claim is filed, the manufacturer typically has 30 days to resolve the issue.

The Role of Arbitration in Resolving Lemon Law Disputes

If mediation doesn’t work, the next step is arbitration. This process involves a neutral third party who listens to both sides and makes a binding decision:

• Arbitration is generally faster and more cost-effective than a lawsuit.
• It is mandatory in some cases, particularly when the vehicle’s warranty includes an arbitration clause.

Defining "Lemon" Vehicles

Not all vehicles with problems qualify as lemons. To meet the California Lemon Law criteria, the vehicle must have certain defects that affect its usability. Here are some examples of what qualifies as a lemon:

• Engine Issues: A defective engine that causes frequent breakdowns.
• Transmission Problems: Transmission failure or shifting issues.
• Safety Defects: Issues that compromise safety, like faulty airbags or braking systems.

These types of defects, if not resolved after multiple repair attempts, can make your vehicle eligible for Lemon Law protection.

Understanding Your Rights Under the Lemon Law

It's critical that customers understand their legal rights under California's Lemon Law. The purpose of this regulation is to safeguard buyers of "lemons," or vehicles that are defective. Our team of knowledgeable Sherman Oaks Lemon Law attorneys at California Lemon Lawyers, APC can assist you in understanding your rights and navigating the process of requesting reimbursement or a replacement car if you think you may have bought a lemon. If your vehicle is also subject to an auto recall, an auto recall attorney can help you explore your options further.

Key points to know about the Lemon Law include:

• The requirements that must be met for a car to be deemed a lemon
• Your legal rights to a reimbursement or a replacement car
• Limitations on when to file a Lemon Law claim
• The importance of maintaining thorough documentation of repair attempts

Don't let a defective vehicle ruin your driving experience. Contact our Sherman Oaks Lemon Law attorneys to learn more about how we can help you navigate the Lemon Law process and protect your consumer rights. If your vehicle is affected by an auto recall, don't hesitate to reach out to an auto recall attorney for assistance. We serve clients all throughout California.

Contact us today by calling (818) 960-1945 for a free consultation. Servicing Valencia, Sylmar, Los Angeles, and all of California.