Should I Accept California Lemon Law Advice from the Dealership?

When you’re dealing with a car that just won’t run right, it can be tempting to rely on the dealership’s advice. After all, they’re familiar with your vehicle and are supposed to help, right? But when it comes to California’s Lemon Law and your rights, it’s important to take a closer look. Dealerships often have their own priorities that may not align with your best interests. Knowing where to turn for reliable guidance can make all the difference in securing fair treatment.

Why Dealerships Might Not Be Your Best Source for Lemon Law Advice

While a dealership may seem like a convenient resource for advice, it’s worth considering the position they’re in. Dealerships have a vested interest in maintaining a good relationship with manufacturers, so their guidance often reflects that priority. This could lead them to downplay persistent issues or suggest additional repairs instead of discussing a possible replacement or refund, even when your vehicle may qualify under California’s Lemon Law. In many cases, dealerships prefer to keep repairs as the focus, especially if it means avoiding costly returns.

Another factor to consider is the limited information they may provide about your legal options. California Lemon Law has specific protections in place for consumers, but dealerships may not fully disclose your right to pursue a claim if they believe additional repairs could keep you in your car. Ultimately, relying solely on the dealership’s advice may leave you without the complete picture.

How California Lemon Law Works: What You Should Know

California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect you when your new or leased vehicle has persistent problems. If your car can’t be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement or a refund. Generally, the Lemon Law applies if a vehicle’s defect affects its use, safety, or value, and the manufacturer hasn’t resolved it within a reasonable timeframe.

Understanding eligibility is key. Your car may qualify if it’s had multiple repair attempts for the same issue or if it’s spent a certain number of days in the shop within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles. While the law sets specific criteria, dealerships may not always inform you about all your rights under these protections. Dealerships might focus on repairs, avoiding mention of replacement or refund options. Knowing your rights upfront allows you to make informed decisions and seek the resolution you deserve.

Getting Reliable Lemon Law Guidance

When facing a persistent vehicle issue, getting reliable Lemon Law guidance can be your strongest asset. While dealerships may have conflicting interests, an attorney focused on California Lemon Law offers advice tailored to your needs and rights. The attorneys at The Lemon Firm can evaluate your specific situation, assess your repair records, and determine if you qualify for a replacement or refund. Unlike dealerships, which may prioritize repairs, we approach your case with your best outcome in mind. 

By working with The Lemon Firm, you gain access to a team that will communicate directly with manufacturers on your behalf, sparing you the back-and-forth with the dealership. Our approach helps ensure you’re treated fairly and receive the resolution the law provides. Reliable guidance allows you to approach your Lemon Law case confidently, knowing that your rights are protected and your options are clear.

Make Informed Choices for Your Lemon Law Claim

Dealing with a defective vehicle can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to rely solely on dealership advice. Protect your rights and explore all your options with our support. Contact The Lemon Firm today for a consultation, and let’s work together to secure the outcome you deserve.

About the Author
Sepehr Daghighian is a partner with CCA that is well-versed in all aspects of lemon-law litigation. A 2005 graduate of Loyola Law School, Mr. Daghighian has been practicing litigation throughout the state of California for over 13-years. In this time, Mr. Daghighian has advocated on behalf of California consumers in hundreds of lemon law cases throughout our great state. Mr. Daghighian has also successfully tried numerous such cases to verdict in both Federal and State Court.