How to Tell if Your Car is a Lemon
Just like everyone knows someone who is a realtor or lawyer, everyone knows someone who has ended up with a car that is a lemon. But what if that person ends up being you? What should you do? If you think your car is a lemon, it’s important to take action right away. And that means understanding what makes a vehicle a lemon and what you should do about it.
What Makes an Issue with your Car a Lemon?
Every lemon vehicle has issues, but not every issue with a vehicle means it is a lemon. So how do you spot the issues that might mean you’re driving a lemon?
At its core, a lemon should be a vehicle that is under or previously was under a warranty. The newer the vehicle, the more likely these issues will weigh in favor of a lemon:
A vehicle with irreparable issues
The vehicle cannot be driven properly or presents serious danger
The defects continue even after repair attempts
The defects are substantial
The defects arise within a reasonable time frame after purchase
Some items that are commonly considered to be issues protected under the California Lemon Law include:
Defective steering wheel
Faulty brakes that cannot be repaired
Major issues that impact the driveability and/or safety of the vehicle
What Does Not Qualify as an Issue Protected Under the Lemon Law?
Some defects may be annoying but they don’t qualify for protection under the lemon law. Examples of those include:
Squeaky sounds
Issues with a window
Bad paint job
Weird or bad smells
Imperfections in the interior or exterior finishes
Used cars purchased private party
Other annoying but minor issues.
However, there isn’t always a hard and fast rule about what can and cannot qualify as a lemon. The burden is on the consumer to prove that the issue is significant enough to impact the safety of the vehicle. This is why it is imperative to work with a seasoned lemon law lawyer who is familiar with the law and understands the nuances of each case.
That is why Naderi Law Group offers free consultations to assess your case and whether you have a lemon. Contact us today and let us help you get the representation that you deserve.