The California Lemon Law has been a vital resource for car buyers and vehicle owners, ensuring legal protection against defective vehicles. However, recent changes to the law have altered how and when these protections can be used. If you’ve recently purchased a car or are dealing with ongoing vehicle issues, these updates could directly impact you.
This blog will provide some key insights about the updated California Lemon Law—part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act—including tighter restrictions, key timelines, and why consulting a lemon law attorney may now be more critical than ever.
What is the California Lemon Law?
The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, colloquially known as the “California Lemon Law” was designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards. If a vehicle qualifies as a “lemon,” the manufacturer is required to repair, replace, or repurchase the vehicle.
However, with changes now in effect as of January 1, 2025, combined with an unfavorable decision being issued by California’s Supreme Court, the accessibility of these legal protections has shifted., Here’s what’s new—and what you need to pay attention to.
Key Changes to the California Lemon Law
These updates align with the new requirements under California AB 1755 and the recent California Supreme Court decision in Rodriguez v. FCA US LLC. For full details, you can access the case here: Read the full case. For vehicle owners, understanding these updates is crucial before pursuing a lemon law claim.
1. Eligibility Now Limited to 2020 and Newer Vehicles
Under the new rules, only vehicles manufactured in 2020 or later are eligible to qualify as lemons. This effectively excludes older used cars, creating significant limitations for owners of older models.
Impact on Used Vehicles:
For those considering purchasing a used vehicle, it is now increasingly difficult if not impossible to file a California Lemon Law claim. In 2024, California’s Supreme Court issued its decision in Rodriguez v. FCA US LLC. The Court determined that used vehicles do not qualify for the express warranty remedies offered by California’s Lemon Law., If you suspect pre-existing issues or defects in any used vehicle you are considering, it’s essential to verify warranty terms and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making a commitment to purchase it.
2. Tightened Claims Deadlines
Another impactful change revolves around stricter timelines for filing claims:
- Vehicle owners must act within one year of the expiration of the applicable warranty period to submit their claim against the manufacturer.
- Regardless of warranty length, all claims must be filed within six years of the vehicle’s original purchase date.
This change means vehicle owners need to monitor their warranties closely and act quickly when they suspect defects—waiting too long could forfeit your ability to file.
3. Stricter Rules on Civil Penalties
Under the revised Lemon Law, as of April 1, 2025, individuals filing claims are now compelled to follow strict rules in order to be eligible for civil penalties against manufacturers. Previously, California’s Lemon Law allowed up to two times the damages if manufacturers willfully violated consumer rights when addressing lemon claims. While this is fairly broad, juries and judges alike often found that something as simple as the manufacturer’s knowledge of the issues was enough. This included situations such as the manufacturer’s engineering department being involved in repairs, the dealership notifying the manufacturer of the issues, or simply the consumer calling the manufacturer directly to express their issues. Unfortunately, this is no longer a valid basis for civil penalties.
California’s legislature has now enumerated that a consumer must extend a formal demand letter to the manufacturer via certified return receipt mail at least thirty days prior to seeking civil penalties in a lawsuit. The letter must notify the manufacturer of the consumer’s name, the VIN, and a brief description of the issues the vehicle has suffered from. The consumer must also demand a repurchase or replacement. Finally, the consumer must have possession of the vehicle at the time the letter is sent.
The new civil penalty legal changes drastically impact a consumer’s potential compensation and they disincentivize manufacturers from handling claims efficiently. This makes it even more critical to present a strong and valid case.
4. Complexities for Used Car Owners
While still technically possible, used car owners face increasing hurdles when trying to file a California Lemon Law claim. These include proving that the issue existed before purchase, making it an implied warranty concern.. Without an ironclad case, many used car claims may not meet the new legal thresholds, emphasizing why expert legal assistance is now necessary.
Consulting Lemon Law attorneys like Johnson & Buxton, is essential to navigating the complexities of evolving legal standards under AB 1755 and recent case law like Rodriguez v. FCA US LLC
.
Why Hiring a Lemon Law Attorney is Now More Important Than Ever
Navigating the current Lemon Law can be daunting due to the recent changes, as even procedural missteps could disqualify your claim. Hiring a qualified lemon law attorney offers several advantages:
- Strategic Expertise: Attorneys understand how to file claims efficiently and work around loopholes created by recent legal shifts.
- Maximized Compensation: While civil penalties rules have become more stringent, attorneys can still help win back maximum financial damages for defective vehicles.
- Case Preparation: From gathering maintenance records to negotiating with manufacturers, attorneys ensure your case is airtight.
Given these legal changes, filing a lemon law case without expert guidance is increasingly risky.
How to Protect Yourself Under the Updated Lemon Law
These changes don’t mean you’re powerless. By taking proactive steps, you can safeguard your rights as a vehicle owner:
- Keep Detailed Records
Always document issues with your vehicle—this includes service records, receipts, and all correspondence with a manufacturer or dealership.
- Act Quickly
Stay mindful of your warranty period and the six-year filing limit. Filing early increases your chances of success.
- Verify Vehicle History
Before purchasing a used vehicle, conduct thorough checks on its history and warranty conditions.
- Consult an Attorney
If you suspect your vehicle may qualify as a lemon, don’t hesitate to consult a legal professional. They can assess your case and provide next steps.
The Road Ahead for Vehicle Owners
The changes to California’s Lemon Law signify a shift in the landscape of consumer vehicle rights. While the new policies impose stricter limitations, they reinforce the importance of diligence and swift action for car buyers and owners alike.
If you’re struggling with a potentially defective vehicle, consider consulting a lemon law attorney to discuss your options. Their expertise will guide you through the complexities of the new regulations, giving you the best chance at resolution.
Don’t Wait—Take Action Today!
If you suspect your vehicle is a lemon, contact a lemon law attorney to explore your options before time runs out. Understanding your rights under the updated California Lemon Law may save you from being stuck with a defective car.
