Unlike most American states, California’s automobile lemon law also covers used cars. Thanks to this law, Californians can return and exchange a used unit with a major mechanical defect that wasn’t apparent or disclosed when they bought it. However, your unit must be covered by the authorized dealer’s warranty or the extended warranty. For a used defective vehicle to be considered a lemon in this side of the Nation, your warranty must meet this state’s lemon law requirement.

Which Used Automobiles Are Covered by the Lemon Law in California?

This used automobile regulation covers certified, pre-owned, and used units that are primarily used for household, family, or personal purposes. The car must have been bought from a retailer or dealer and not an individual. In addition, it must have been purchased with written warranties from the dealers.

California’s used car lemon law also covers lemon vehicles repurchased by manufacturers or dealers, repaired, and then resold to consumers with warranties covering these defects. These units are usually certified and then granted an extended warranty, which increases the duration of the original manufacturer’s warranty.

The Manufacturer’s Duty to the Consumers

This law provides authorized dealers and manufacturers with a reasonable number of repair attempts before they compensate or repurchase the vehicle. For instance, if it’s a serious issue like brake failure, the manufacturer or dealer is given a maximum of two repair attempts. If the issue recurs and it has a high likelihood of injuring the driver, the manufacturers are granted two repair attempts by the law.

The manufacturer is required to replace a unit that has been at the workshop for repairs for over 30 days. However, if the unit’s warranty for proper use and maintenance isn’t followed properly, or the defect was caused by abuse after the unit was sold, the manufacturer can’t replace your unit.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Used Automobile Is a Lemon?

If your car starts failing even after proper maintenance and the dealer never disclosed any defect, you should hire a San Diego lemon law attorney. The lawyer will help you determine if your unit is covered by California used car Lemon law and find out the options available to you.

Some dealers or manufacturers are known for fighting individual claims. Fortunately, these professionals work on a contingency basis. This increases your chances of getting compensated, without breaking your bank to pay for their services.

If your car is damaged, you should start by getting a repair order. The repair order should stipulate the defect your vehicle has and how many times you have tried to repair it. Next, inform the dealer/manufacturer of the defect before submitting your dispute to the state-certified arbitration program. You should also talk to your lawyer before submitting your dispute to the Arbitration. Remember, the Arbitrations outcome can affect your lawsuit’s outcome.

Endnote

Besides the lemon law, you’re also protected by law if you think you were deceived by the dealer when purchasing the car. Some dealers never disclose the repairs done on the car before selling it or its condition. The certified units can also be improperly certified. You should have an experienced lawyer review the purchasing document as soon as your car fails.