Frequently Asked Questions

The California Lemon Law (Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) protects consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles. If your vehicle has a substantial defect that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement. Read our complete guide to California Lemon Law for full details.

Yes, in certain cases. The Lemon Law applies to used vehicles that are still under the manufacturer's original warranty or are certified pre-owned vehicles. The Tanner Consumer Protection Act also extends protections to used cars purchased from dealers. Learn more about the differences between Lemon Law and used car warranties.

Generally, California law presumes a vehicle is a lemon if the same defect has been repaired 2+ times for safety issues, 4+ times for other substantial defects, or the vehicle has been out of service for 30+ cumulative days for warranty repairs. See our full guide for details on the presumption rules.

Nothing out of pocket. California law requires the manufacturer to pay your attorney's fees if you win your case. At Lion Lemon, we work on a contingency basis — you pay nothing unless we win. Get your free case evaluation.

You may be entitled to a full refund of the purchase price (including taxes, registration, and fees), a replacement vehicle of comparable value, or a cash-and-keep settlement. In all cases, attorney's fees are paid by the manufacturer. Learn about how the mileage offset works for buyback calculations.

Most cases are resolved within 30 to 90 days, though some may take longer depending on the manufacturer and complexity of the case. Read our detailed guide on how long a lemon law case takes for a full timeline breakdown.

Most Lemon Law cases are settled through negotiation without going to court. However, if the manufacturer refuses to offer a fair settlement, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial. Learn more about the case timeline and process.

The California Lemon Law covers cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, electric vehicles, and other consumer vehicles purchased or leased in California with a manufacturer's warranty. Browse our manufacturer pages to see coverage for specific brands.

Yes. California has a four-year statute of limitations for Lemon Law claims, starting from when you discovered (or should have discovered) the defect. It's best to act as soon as possible to preserve your rights.

First, document everything — keep all repair orders, receipts, and records of communication with the dealer. Then contact a Lemon Law attorney for a free case evaluation. Don't stop taking your vehicle in for repairs, as each visit strengthens your case. Check our 7 warning signs your car is a lemon guide.