As the “Surf City” of California, Huntington Beach is renowned for its captivating coastal culture. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that this city makes an ideal destination in which to live and work. The sad part is that many local residents have seen their dreams of new car ownership become nightmares thanks to dishonest auto dealers and manufacturers. These people often find themselves in possession of cars that are missing essential safety features, cost an arm and a leg in repairs, or don’t even work as advertised.
Fortunately, California’s Lemon Law provides significant protection for consumers. If a vehicle turns out to be a lemon, the manufacturer or dealer must repair it or replace it, or refund the amount paid for the vehicle.
We are top-rated lemon attorneys in Huntington Beach. Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have helped countless consumers get the justice they deserve. We know California’s Lemon Law inside and out and have decades of experience handling auto lemon claims. We understand the stress and frustration that comes with owning a defective vehicle and are committed to helping you get the compensation you deserve.
When you become our client, we will review your case and help you understand your rights under the law. We will negotiate with the manufacturer or dealer on your behalf and, if necessary, take your case to court. Our goal is to get you the best possible outcome in the shortest amount of time.
The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act
Otherwise known as California’s Lemon Law, The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act is an important consumer-protection law that was passed in California in 1975. This act provides legal recourse to consumers who purchase faulty or defective products – commonly referred to as ‘lemons.’
Under this law, consumers can take legal action against the manufacturer if their vehicle purchase fails to meet certain conditions within a specified time period.
Automobile consumers are protected by the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act under two separate warranties: the manufacturer’s express warranty and the implied warranty of merchantability. The manufacturer’s express warranty is a contractual guarantee that the vehicle will be free from defects for a certain time period or the number of miles driven. The implied warranty of merchantability is an unspoken promise that the product will be fit for its intended purpose and must conform to all standards of quality and performance.
Is Your Huntington Beach Vehicle a Lemon?
Some guidelines are provided in the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act to help consumers determine if their vehicle is a lemon. If your Huntington Beach vehicle meets any of the following criteria, you may be eligible for a refund or replacement:
- Consistent inability to pass an emissions test
- Repetitive breakdowns or mechanical failures
- Unusual noises, stalling, and/or vibrations
- Manufacturer recalls that cannot be remedied
- Inability to drive or operate correctly
- Safety hazards such as faulty brakes and airbags
- Electrical problems such as dead batteries and malfunctioning lights
- Leaks in the engine, transmission, or other parts
- Malfunctioning air conditioning and heating systems
- Defects in the paint, body, and structure of the vehicle
- Inaccuracies in federally mandated paperwork
- Unacceptable levels of fuel consumption
- Poorly functioning steering, brakes, and other parts
- Significant defects in the design of the vehicle
- Repairs that are not completed within a reasonable amount of time
To make a claim under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, you must provide proof that you purchased or leased a lemon vehicle. This includes copies of your maintenance and repair records, the bill of sale or lease contract, and any other relevant documents.
Timelines For Making a Lemon Law Claim
Under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, you have four years from the date of noticing the defect to file a claim.
It is important to act quickly when making a lemon law claim, as the statute of limitations can be difficult to extend. Our law firm has extensive experience with lemon law and can help you understand the timeline for filing a claim.
What Will I Receive in a Huntington Beach Lemon Law Claim?
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to a full refund of the purchase price (minus a usage fee) or a replacement vehicle. Depending on the circumstances, you may receive:
- Reimbursement for repairs, expenses, and other costs
- Reimbursement for towing and rental car fees
- Return of the original purchase price or replacement of the vehicle
- Reimbursement for any taxes
- Return of the finance charges and other fees associated with the purchase
- Money for diminution in value of the vehicle
Sometimes, an informal settlement or a lawsuit may be necessary to obtain these items. As the prevailing party under the California Lemon Law, the manufacturer will be responsible to pay for your attorney fees and costs. This makes pursuing a lemon law claim an easy decision.
Options For Resolving Your Huntington Beach Lemon Law Claim
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate directly with the manufacturer or dealer and settle the claim outside of court. This is often the fastest and most cost-effective option for resolving a lemon law dispute. However, it can be difficult to receive a fair settlement without the help of an experienced lawyer.
If you are unable to reach a satisfactory resolution, you may need to file a lawsuit and proceed with court proceedings. This will require extensive preparation and can be a long and costly process. An experienced Huntington Beach Lemon attorney can help you build a strong case and represent your interests in court with the goal of maximizing your recovery.
Contact Us to Get Started on Your Huntington Beach Lemon Law Case
Our experienced Huntington Beach Lemon lawyers can help you understand the timeline for filing a claim, determine your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to get started on your case.
