Los Angeles drivers know all too well that time is money, and that waiting weeks or even months for car repairs can upend daily life. In recent years, supply chain disruptions and manufacturer backlogs have led to unprecedented delays in vehicle repairs, especially for newer models and luxury brands. However, while dealerships often blame parts shortages or staffing issues, these excessive wait times can support a Lemon Law claim in California.
At Shainfeld Law, our lemon law attorneys help consumers turn these frustrating delays into legal leverage. If your car has spent an unreasonable amount of time at the dealership due to repeat repairs or parts availability, you may be entitled to a vehicle repurchase, replacement, or compensation under California Lemon Law.
The Growing Problem of Repair Delays in California
Since 2020, the auto industry has faced ongoing parts shortages and labor disruptions. Semiconductors, sensors, and even basic components like fuel pumps and brake modules have become harder to source. As a result, many dealerships are overwhelmed with backlogged service requests and limited repair inventory.
Manufacturers have asked consumers for patience, but when weeks turn into months and your vehicle is undrivable or unreliable, those delays may indicate more than logistics. They may point to a defect the manufacturer can’t or won’t fix.
How California’s Lemon Law Views Repair Time
Under California’s Lemon Law, a vehicle is considered a “lemon” if the manufacturer or dealership cannot repair a substantial defect within a reasonable number of attempts or a reasonable period. While many consumers focus on the number of repair visits, time-based claims are equally valid, especially when the vehicle is out of service for 30 days or more for warranty repairs.
Delays in securing parts, lack of technician availability, or vague “supply chain” explanations do not excuse the manufacturer’s obligation to resolve the defect. Long dealership wait times, mainly when repeated, can indicate that the vehicle is fundamentally defective or that the manufacturer cannot fix it in a reasonable timeframe.
When Delays Support a Repurchase Demand
Extended time in the shop disrupts your life and diminishes your vehicle’s use, value, and safety.
If you’ve lost confidence in your car and the repairs are incomplete or ineffective, you may be eligible to request:
- A complete vehicle repurchase, including reimbursement of your down payment and monthly payments.
- A replacement vehicle, if preferred and agreed upon.
- Cash compensation, in some cases, is available when you decide to keep the vehicle.
These outcomes are possible even if the dealership eventually completes the repair and the time lost meets the legal threshold.
What You Can Do If Your Vehicle Is Stuck in the Shop
To protect your rights and build a strong Lemon Law claim, keep detailed records of every service appointment, delay notification, loaner vehicle (or lack thereof), and communication with the dealership. Document how long your car is out of service and the nature of each unresolved issue.
At Shainfeld Law, we specialize in helping drivers hold manufacturers accountable. If your vehicle has been in the shop for an unreasonable amount of time, contact our experienced Los Angeles lemon law attorney today by calling 888-609-2593 or requesting a free consultation online. We’ll help you determine whether delay is an excuse or legal evidence that you deserve a remedy.