Legal Help for Defective Cars – Fresno, CA

Common Signs of a Defective Vehicle

Not every car problem means your vehicle is a lemon—but certain recurring issues may be red flags. If you’re constantly taking your car to the repair shop for the same problems, it could be a sign of a serious manufacturing defect.

Some of the most common signs of a defective vehicle include:

• Engine Stalling or Misfiring: If your car suddenly loses power while driving or refuses to start consistently, it could indicate a dangerous defect.

• Transmission Failure: Hesitation when shifting gears, grinding noises, or sudden jerks while driving may point to transmission issues.

• Electrical Problems: Malfunctioning dashboard lights, power locks, windows, or faulty sensors can signal deeper electrical system faults.

• Brake or Steering Issues: Reduced braking power, squealing, or unresponsive steering can put your safety at risk.

• Persistent Warning Lights: A check engine light that won’t go away—despite multiple repairs—is a major warning sign.

These symptoms can be frustrating, costly, and even dangerous. If your vehicle is under warranty and the dealership isn’t resolving the issues, you may be entitled to compensation or a replacement.

Don’t wait—consult with a Lemon Law Lawyer near me or a vehicle warranty attorney to understand your legal options and protect your rights.

CALL NOW (559) 272-5473

Your Rights Under California Lemon Law

Here’s what you need to know about your rights under California Lemon Law — including what qualifies as a “lemon,” the protections offered, and how the claims process works.

What Is California Lemon Law?

California Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, provides protection to consumers who buy or lease a vehicle that turns out to have repeated defects. This law applies to new vehicles, used vehicles still under warranty, and even some certified pre-owned vehicles.

If your vehicle qualifies, you could be entitled to a replacement vehicle, a full refund, or cash compensation.

What Qualifies as a “Lemon”?

Not every vehicle with issues qualifies as a lemon. California Lemon Law applies when:

• The vehicle is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty
• The vehicle has a substantial defect that affects its safety, value, or use
• The manufacturer or its authorized dealer has made reasonable attempts to repair the defect, typically:

• • 2+ attempts to fix a life-threatening safety defect (like faulty brakes or steering
  • 4+ attempts to fix the same non-safety defect
  • OR the vehicle is out of service for 30+ cumulative days for any number of issues

Even if your car doesn’t fit these exact numbers, you may still qualify under the broader legal standards. It’s best to consult with a Lemon Law legal services professional to evaluate your case.

What Vehicles Are Covered?

California Lemon Law typically covers:

• New vehicles
• Used vehicles still under factory warranty
• Leased vehicles
• Motorcycles and RVs (in some cases)
• Dealer-owned demo vehicles

Private sales are generally not covered unless a warranty was included, so it’s important to review your paperwork carefully.

Your Rights Under California Lemon Law

If your vehicle is deemed a lemon, you are legally entitled to:

• A full refund, including the down payment, monthly payments, taxes, and fees
• A replacement vehicle of similar value
• Reimbursement for repair costs, towing, and even rental cars
• Payment of your attorney fees by the manufacturer (if you win the case)

That last point is key: you don’t pay out of pocket to pursue a Lemon Law claim. This levels the playing field for consumers going up against large automakers.

How the Lemon Law Process Works

1. Document the problem: Keep all repair orders, receipts, and communication with the dealer or manufacturer.

2. Give the manufacturer a reasonable chance to fix the issue.

3. Contact a qualified attorney for a free case evaluation. Working with a California Lemon Law lawyer can significantly improve your chances of success.

4. File a claim against the manufacturer if the issue persists.

5. Negotiate or litigate: Many claims are resolved outside of court. If needed, your attorney can take the case to trial.

Beware of Car Dealership Fraud

Sometimes the issue isn’t just a defective car — it’s misrepresentation or deception by the dealership. Examples of car dealership fraud include:

• Selling a known lemon without disclosing it
• Rolling back odometers
• Misrepresenting the car’s accident or repair history

In these cases, you may also have grounds for a separate legal claim. A car dealership fraud lawyer can help you seek compensation for deceptive business practices.

Final Thoughts

If you’re stuck with a faulty vehicle, you have rights under California Lemon Law. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of getting a refund or replacement vehicle. Remember: manufacturers are required to cover your legal fees if you win your claim, so don’t hesitate to speak to a legal professional.

👉 Need help? Reach out to trusted Lemon Law legal services or a car dealership fraud lawyer to explore your options and get back on the road with confidence.

What to Do If the Dealership Won’t Help

Here’s what you can do if the dealership won’t help:

Document Everything

Start by gathering all relevant documents:

• Purchase or lease agreement
• Warranty paperwork
• Repair orders and service records
• Communications (emails, texts, letters) with the dealer or manufacturer

The more organized you are, the stronger your case will be.

Request Written Responses

If the dealership refuses to help verbally, ask for a written explanation. This creates a paper trail and helps prove the dealership is aware of the issue but choosing not to act.

File a Complaint with the Manufacturer

Contact a Lemon Law Attorney

If your car is still under warranty and meets certain criteria, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement under the California Lemon Law. A Lemon Law legal service can evaluate your situation and help you fight back.

A qualified attorney will:

• Assess whether your car qualifies as a “lemon”
• Handle communications with the dealership and manufacturer
• Represent you at no upfront cost (most lemon law attorneys work on contingency)

Consider Dealership Fraud

If you suspect the dealership intentionally misled you (e.g., rolled back the odometer, hid a major accident, or sold you a “new” car that had prior damage), you may be dealing with car dealership fraud. In that case, speak to a car dealership fraud lawyer immediately to protect your rights and possibly seek compensation.

File a Complaint with Regulatory Agencies

If you’re hitting a wall, you can file a complaint with:

• California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
• California Attorney General’s Office
• Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto Line Program
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

These agencies can investigate the dealership and may even help mediate a resolution.

Leave Honest Reviews

While it won’t fix your car, posting honest reviews on Google, Yelp, and other platforms can warn other consumers and sometimes prompt the dealership to respond more seriously.

Final Thoughts

If a dealership won’t help, you don’t have to accept it. California law is on your side — especially if you’ve purchased a lemon or been misled. Taking action early, staying organized, and getting legal support can turn the situation around.

Need help now? Reach out to an experienced Lemon Law legal team or car dealership fraud lawyer to explore your options — and get back on the road with peace of mind.