Vehicles Covered Under California Lemon Law

In California, the following vehicles are covered by the Lemon Law:

• Cars, trucks, vans and SUVs
• Motorhome (RV) - the chassis, chassis cab and drivetrain
• Dealer-owned vehicles and demonstrators
• Vehicles purchased or leased primarily for business use
• Vehicles purchased or leased for personal use
• Watercraft
• Motorcycles

New Vehicle

When you purchase or lease a brand-new vehicle, you don’t expect to drive off with a vehicle with a major malfunction or defect. Fortunately, you are protected under the California Lemon Law if your vehicle falls within the 18 months/18,000-mile time restriction and is still under manufacturer’s warranty.

Used Vehicle

Even if you have purchased a used vehicle, there is a possibility that your vehicle will still fall under the manufacturer’s warranty, meaning you will have the same protection as if it were a new vehicle. If your used vehicle does not have the original manufacturer’s warranty, California Lemon Law states that a dealership’s express written warranty will qualify you for Lemon Law protection.

Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle

Used vehicles that are certified by the authorized dealer extends the existing manufacturer’s warranty and/or creates an additional warranty, providing more protection for you. Depending on the details of the extended warranty, it is possible for your defective vehicle to be covered under the California Lemon Law, and in some cases, the Federal Lemon Law as well.

Keep in mind, the malfunction or defect must pose a threat to your safety; otherwise, the smaller repairs that come with owning a new or used vehicle are not considered under this law. Find out if you qualify under the California Lemon Law with our Free Vehicle Check.

If you believe you’re stuck with a lemon but are unsure if your vehicle is covered under the lemon law, give us a call at 888-536-6628. Our dedicated lawyers and in-house On Site Auto Research & Development Team are ready to listen to your case and help you determine what your rights are in California. We have successfully handled thousands of cases like yours and we are ready to answer any questions you have during your free consultation!