Lemon Law
Photo courtesy of Henry Zbyszynski
lemon law for santa cruz and
monterey county
California’s lemon law is found in the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act. It protects consumers who buy new or certified used vehicles by forcing manufacturers to honor their written warranties. If your vehicle has a defect and the manufacturer is unable to fix your vehicle after a reasonable number of attempts then the manufacturer must offer you a replacement vehicle or buy your vehicle back. We serve consumers in Santa Cruz County and Monterey County who have lemons. Contact us if you believe you have a lemon.
In Santa Cruz County and Monterey County you are protected when your vehicle is defective and cannot be repaired after a “reasonable” number of attempts. “Reasonable” is defined here. The lemon law applies to most new vehicles purchased or leased in California that are still under a manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty or purchased as certified pre-owned.
what is a lemon?
Your new or certified used vehicle must have a manufacturer warranty that covers the defect. Every new vehicle comes with a warranty and a consumer does not need to prove the nature of the defect. Some Questions to Ask:
First Question:
Is the defect covered by the written warranty?
Second Question:
Did the defect substantially impair the vehicles use, value or safety? Substantial impairment is defined here.
Third Question:
Was the vehicle repaired after a “reasonable” number of opportunities? “Reasonable” is defined here.
What’s In It For You?
If you have a lemon, you have a right to a replacement vehicle or a repurchase. A repurchase means that the manufacturer has to reimburse you for your out of pocket expenses and in exchange you return the vehicle. By law the manufacturer must pay your attorney’s fees if you have a lemon.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.