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California Lemon Law Attorney - Wave Law Firm, APC

If you've purchased or leased a vehicle in California that turns out to be defective, you may be entitled to compensation under the California Lemon Law. At Wave Law Firm, APC, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of consumers and helping them navigate the complex legal process. We understand the frustration and inconvenience that comes with owning a lemon vehicle, and we're here to help you get the justice you deserve.

What is the California Lemon Law?

The California Lemon Law, also known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, provides protection for consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that turn out to be defective. Under this law, if a manufacturer is unable to repair a vehicle after a reasonable number of attempts, the consumer is entitled to a replacement vehicle or a full refund.

According to a study by the Center for Auto Safety, the California Lemon Law is one of the most comprehensive and consumer-friendly lemon laws in the United States. In fact, since the law's inception in 1970, it has helped countless Californians receive compensation for their defective vehicles.

To qualify under the California Lemon Law, the vehicle must:

1. Have a substantial defect that is covered by the manufacturer's warranty
   

2. Have been subjected to a reasonable number of repair attempts by the manufacturer or its authorized repair facility
   

3. Have been out of service for repairs for at least 30 days (not necessarily consecutively) within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles of ownership
   

What is considered a "reasonable number" of repair attempts?

The California Lemon Law defines a "reasonable number" of repair attempts as follows:

1. The manufacturer has made at least two attempts to repair a warranty problem that could cause death or serious bodily injury
   

2. The manufacturer has made at least four attempts to repair the same warranty problem
   

3. The vehicle has been out of service for repairs for at least 30 days (not necessarily consecutively) within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles of ownership
   

It's important to note that these repair attempts do not have to be for the same issue. If your vehicle has multiple defects that meet the criteria above, it may still qualify as a lemon.

How common are lemon vehicles in California?

According to the California Department of Consumer Affairs, it's estimated that up to 150,000 vehicles sold in California each year may qualify as lemons. However, many consumers are unaware of their rights under the California Lemon Law and may not take action to seek compensation.

What types of defects are covered under the California Lemon Law?

The California Lemon Law covers a wide range of defects, including:

1. Engine and transmission problems

2. Electrical issues

3. Steering and suspension defects

4. Brake failures

5. Air conditioning and heating malfunctions

6. Safety feature defects, such as airbag or seatbelt issues

Essentially, any defect that substantially impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle and is covered by the manufacturer's warranty may qualify under the California Lemon Law.

What compensation is available under the California Lemon Law?

If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you may be entitled to:

1. A replacement vehicle of the same make and model
   

2. A full refund of the purchase price, including taxes, registration fees, and other charges
   

3. Compensation for any incidental expenses, such as towing costs or rental car fees

In some cases, you may also be able to recover attorneys' fees and other legal costs associated with pursuing your lemon law claim.

How can Wave Law Firm, APC help with your Lemon Law case?

At Wave Law Firm, APC, our skilled lemon law attorneys have extensive experience handling cases throughout California. We understand the nuances of the California Lemon Law and know how to build a strong case on your behalf. When you work with us, you can expect:

1. Free case evaluation: We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to review your case and determine if you qualify for protection under the California Lemon Law.
   

2. Legal guidance: Our attorneys will guide you through every step of the legal process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with the manufacturer and representing you in court, if necessary.
   

3. No upfront fees: We work on a contingency basis, which means you don't pay any legal fees unless we win your case.
   

4. Aggressive representation: We're not afraid to take on major auto manufacturers to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
   

5. Personalized attention: We understand that every case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your concerns and develop a customized legal strategy that meets your specific needs.
   

Top 10 FAQs about the California Lemon Law

1. What is the California Lemon Law?

The California Lemon Law is a consumer protection law that provides a remedy for purchasers of vehicles that repeatedly fail to meet standards of quality and performance.

2. What vehicles are covered under the California Lemon Law?

The California Lemon Law covers new and used vehicles sold or leased in California that are still under the manufacturer's warranty.

3. How do I know if my vehicle qualifies as a lemon?

To qualify as a lemon, your vehicle must have a substantial defect that is covered by the manufacturer's warranty and has not been repaired after a reasonable number of attempts.

4. What is considered a reasonable number of repair attempts?

The California Lemon Law defines a reasonable number of repair attempts as at least two attempts for a defect that could cause death or serious bodily injury, at least four attempts for the same warranty problem, or at least 30 days out of service for repairs.

5. What should I do if I think my vehicle is a lemon?

If you believe your vehicle is a lemon, you should contact an experienced lemon law attorney who can evaluate your case and advise you on the best course of action.

6. What compensation is available under the California Lemon Law?

If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle, a full refund of the purchase price, or compensation for incidental expenses.

7. How long do I have to file a lemon law claim?

In California, you must file a lemon law claim within four years from the date you knew or should have known that the vehicle was a lemon.

8. Can I pursue a lemon law claim if my vehicle is used?

Yes, as long as the vehicle was sold or leased with a manufacturer's warranty and meets the other criteria for a lemon.

9. Do I need an attorney to pursue a lemon law claim?

While you are not required to have an attorney, it is highly recommended that you seek the assistance of an experienced lemon law attorney who can protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

10. How much does it cost to hire a lemon law attorney?

Many lemon law attorneys, including those at Wave Law Firm, APC, work on a contingency basis, which means you don't pay any legal fees unless they win your case.

Contact a California Lemon Law Attorney Today

If you believe your vehicle qualifies as a lemon under the California Lemon Law, don't hesitate to contact Wave Law Firm, APC. Our experienced lemon law attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today at [phone number] or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free case evaluation. Don't let a lemon vehicle leave a sour taste in your mouth – let Wave Law Firm, APC help you get back on the road with confidence.