Purchasing a new car or a used car is a big investment, and Palm Desert and Orange County drivers have high standards for having a safe and reliable car. Yet, when a car suffers recurring mechanical faults, it can become a problem, not a pleasure, to drive. Thankfully, Lemon Laws have been designed to safeguard buyers in such a case, providing them with a full refund, a new car, or a monetary payment.
If your car keeps having recurring defects that affect its value, performance, or even its safety, then your car can fall under California’s Lemon Law. Palm Desert and Orange County car owners can refer to this article and understand your rights and what to do in case you have a car purchase that is a lemon car.
What Is California’s Lemon Law?
California’s Lemon Law, in terms of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, provides a legal remedy for a purchaser of a car with a flaw for a failure in a critical issue in a car after numerous attempts at an effective remedy by a producer.
To qualify under California’s Lemon Law, a car must:
- Have a critical flaw in terms of safety, usability, or value
• Still maintain a full, unexpired, and valid manufacturer’s original warranty
• Have gone through numerous failed repair operations
• Have been in a state of prolonged (usually 30 days and over) in-shop service
If your car complies with these requirements, then you can apply for a replacement, a refund, or a cash settlement.
Common Vehicle Defects Under Lemon Law
Certain mechanical ailments increase peril and financial cost for car owners. In case your car experiences any of the following, you can have a strong case under the Lemon Law.
1. Engine and Transmission Malfunction
- Persistent idling, overheating, or loss of power
• Transmission failure, shudders, or slipping
2. Electrical System Malfunctions
- Frequent failure in lights, infotainment, and ignition
• Problems with the dashboard, sensors, and power windows
3. Steering and Suspension Malfunction
- Unstable driving, loss of car control
• Premature wear of suspension parts, compromising safe driving
4. Brake System Malfunction
- Unresponsive brakes, grinding, or leaks in brake fluid
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) failure
5. The Jeep Death Wobble
One of the most notorious issues for Jeep owners and Jeep Wrangler owners specifically is “death wobble.” It is a violent front-end shaking when a car reaches high speeds or when a car runs over a bump.
- The car and its front-end wobbles in an unpredictable manner
• This issue is caused by loose or frayed parts in the suspension
• Jeep owners often have an expensive repair to make to remedy
If you have a Jeep with a case of death wobble, then your car could require an expensive repair. Find out about Jeep death wobble repair and whether you can claim under Lemon Law.
How to Know That Your Car is a Lemon
If your car continues to have defects, it’s worth checking whether it’s a lemon under state laws. Look for these:
1. Repeated Repair Attempts
- The producer will have a balanced proportion of trials in resolving the issue
• Generally, two to four shots at fixing one flaw make your case
2. Extended Duration in the Shop
- If your car has been out of service for 30 days or more cumulatively, you may be eligible
3. The Car Has a Warranty
- Lemon Law covers new and certified pre-owned cars under a maker’s basic warranty
If your vehicle qualifies under these, then it’s high time for taking legal recourse and filing a claim under the Lemon Law.
Steps to Take If Your Car Meets the Lemon Law Criteria
If you have a car that is a lemon, use these tips in developing a strong case:
1. Keep All Repair Records
- Save all service orders, communications with dealers, and repair estimates
• Record the date, odometer reading, and nature of the defect
2. Return to an Official Dealership for Repairs
- Repairs must be performed at a dealership approved under the maker’s warranty
• Ensure proper documentation of all attempted work
3. Consult a Lemon Law Attorney
- An experienced Lemon Law lawyer can represent and file a claim for your case and work with the manufacturer
• A solicitor can secure a payment in compensation or a new car
4. Do Not Sell or Dispose of the Car
- Selling your car or trading it in can cancel your claim under Lemon Law
• Resolve your case legally first and then seek alternative options
Why Work With a Lemon Law Lawyer?
Car manufacturers often resist Lemon Law claims, making the legal process complex for vehicle owners. Having a dedicated attorney can make a difference in securing compensation.
How an Attorney Can Help
- Case Analysis – Verify your car’s qualification under Lemon Law
• Legal Representation – Negotiations and paperwork handled for your ease
• Maximizing Reimbursement – Get a car, new car, or cash settlement
If you’re not sure your car is a lemon, contact Lemon Law Assist for a free consultation.
Final Thoughts
If your new car or used car continues to have persistent mechanical faults that cannot be repaired, then your case can fall under the Lemon Law. Familiarity with your legal options and acting with urgency can allow you to obtain a full refund or a new car.
If your car is suspected to be a lemon, don’t procrastinate—hire a car lemon lawyer today. And, in case your car is afflicted with such ailments as the Jeep death wobble, make a point to check for manufacturer recalls or possible Lemon Law claims.
By being proactive and staying in the loop, your investment will be secure, and your driving will become safer and less stressful.