If you live in California, did you know that you are protected by the California Lemon Law. This is an amazing law that protects unknowing consumers from being swindled into buying cars with hidden damages or excessive (and costly) issues.
But how do you know if your car is a lemon? And what makes you eligible to pursue justice under the California Lemon Law?
We’re here to provide a little insight. No one should be forced to pay for repairing and replacing car parts on a vehicle they just bought. Keep reading for everything you need to know to answer the question, “When is a car a lemon?”
The Price Was Too Good to Be True
One of the most common signs a car is a lemon is if the price is questionably low. While it can be incredibly tempting to jump on a good deal for a vehicle that looks to be in great shape, ask yourself why the seller would be letting it go for such a low price.
In other words, you should be asking, “Is it a lemon car?”
Now, obviously, the buyer won’t come out and tell you the car is in disrepair. In this scenario, we suggest taking the vehicle to a trusted mechanic to give it a thorough inspection.
The Seller Wouldn’t Provide a Vehicle History Report
Many times, a seller will claim a vehicle has no vehicle history report if they’ve got something to hide. For example, it could be a salvaged title or a major factory recall that hasn’t been addressed. Either way, if you purchase the vehicle, you’ll be forced to pay for the potential repairs.
Whether you’re working with a private seller or a car dealership, walk away if the car doesn’t have a vehicle history report. Alternatively, if you get the VIN (vehicle identification number), you can look up the vehicle history report yourself.
The Seller Lied About the Condition of the Car
Next, let’s cover “What is a lemon buyback car?” and “What is a lemon used car?”
A lemon buyback car is a vehicle that was returned to the dealer or manufacturer a lemon, then placed back on the market for sale. The question is whether or not the seller was honest about fixing the documented issues.
A used car is a lemon if a private seller or dealer is trying to sell off a vehicle without reporting its damages and issues. If a seller is lying to you, you can bet the car isn’t worth the pavement it’s parked on.
The California Lemon Law
Finally, what is a lemon car in accordance with the law?
In California, a car is a lemon if it’s purchased or leased and:
- Has been returned to the dealership at least four times for the same issue
- Has been returned to an authorized dealer at least twice for a problem that could cause death or serious injury
- Has been in the repair shop for an extended period of time before the first 18 months or 18,000 miles of ownership.
If you think your car is a lemon or it falls under any of the circumstances listed above, reach out to a lawyer who specializes in lemon laws.
Do You Know if Your Car is a Lemon?
If you’ve been constantly disappointed and inconvenienced by a car you recently bought, you deserve justice. If your car is a lemon, you don’t have to count your losses and deal with it. The California Lemon Law is in place to protect consumers like you.
And if you’re looking for more car-related content, stick around for a while. Read through some of our other articles to find more helpful information and advice. Good luck!
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