California’s Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles. If a manufacturer cannot repair a substantial defect after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation. However, not all car issues qualify under the California Lemon Law.
At Shainfeld Law, our Los Angeles lemon law attorneys help consumers understand their rights and determine whether their vehicle qualifies for a Lemon Law claim. Before doing so, all consumers need to know which car defects are NOT covered under the California Lemon Law.
Defects That the California Lemon Law Does Not Cover
While California’s Lemon Law covers substantial defects affecting a vehicle’s safety, use, or value, specific issues are not covered by it.
These include:
Defects Caused by Owner Negligence or Abuse
If a vehicle issue results from misuse, neglect, or lack of proper maintenance, it will not qualify under the Lemon Law.
Examples include:
- Failure to perform regular maintenance, including skipping oil changes or ignoring warning lights.
- Aftermarket modifications that interfere with the vehicle’s regular operation.
- Damage from reckless driving, accidents, or improper vehicle use.
Normal Wear and Tear
California’s Lemon Law does not cover ordinary wear and tear for regular vehicle use.
These include:
- Brake pad or tire wear from everyday driving.
- Minor cosmetic issues, such as small scratches or upholstery fading.
- Battery degradation over time.
Unless these issues stem from a manufacturer defect, they do not qualify for Lemon Law protections.
Minor or Inconvenient Issues
Not all defects meet the legal standard for a Lemon Law claim.
Minor inconveniences that do not impact safety or usability will not qualify, such as:
- Squeaky brakes or minor engine noises that do not affect performance.
- Unusual odors unless linked to a mechanical defect.
- Faulty radio, Bluetooth, or navigation system issues that do not interfere with the car’s ability to function.
California’s Lemon Law only applies to defects that arise while the vehicle is under the manufacturer’s warranty. If a problem appears after the warranty period ends, the Lemon Law does not apply, even if the issue was present earlier.
How to Determine If Your Car Qualifies Under the California Lemon Law
If your vehicle has a persistent defect that significantly affects its safety, use, or value, take these steps:
- Take the car in for repairs at an authorized dealer and keep copies of all work orders.
- Document repeated repair attempts—if the issue is not fixed after multiple visits, it may qualify as a lemon.
- Consult our Lemon Law attorney to assess whether your case meets the legal requirements.
At Shainfeld Law, we have a 99% success rate and deliver results for most clients in as little as 60 to 90 days. If you believe your vehicle qualifies under the California Lemon Law, contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
Related Links:
- What Defects or Problems Must My Vehicle Have To Qualify For California Lemon Law Protection?
- What Vehicle Problems Are (and Are Not) Actual Defects that Reach Lemon Law Status?
- Which Vehicle Defects Are Not Covered Under the California Lemon Law?
- Defects vs. Design Flaws: What’s Eligible for California Lemon Claims?