Think your car might be a lemon? Follow these steps to protect your rights and build the strongest possible claim — then get a free, printable checklist.
Ask the dealer for a copy each time, even when they say they “found no problem.” These documents are the backbone of a Lemon Law claim.
Describe the symptom consistently so the record shows one recurring defect — not several unrelated visits.
Note the date, mileage, and how long the car sat in the shop. California presumes a lemon after 2+ repairs for a serious safety defect, 4+ for the same problem, or 30+ cumulative days out of service.
Save your purchase or lease agreement, the warranty booklet, and every repair invoice and message from the dealer or manufacturer.
If the dealer can’t fix it, you may be owed a refund, a replacement, or cash. You shouldn’t have to keep driving a defective vehicle.
Repairs generally must happen while under warranty, and you have roughly four years to file. Waiting can cost you the case.
An attorney will tell you — for free — whether you qualify and what your case is worth. It costs you nothing; the manufacturer pays the legal fees.
This checklist is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different — an attorney should review your specific situation.