Lemon Law
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What is the Lemon Law?
The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, also known as California's "Lemon Law," provides that if a manufacturer or its authorized dealer cannot successfully repair a defective product within a reasonable number of repair attempts, the manufacturer must either promptly replace or repurchase the product. The product must be covered by a manufacturer's or retail seller's warranty.
What types of products does the Lemon Law apply to?
The Lemon Law, however, actually applies to all consumer products sold in this state and covered by a manufacturer's or retail seller's warranty. Examples of products covered by the lemon law are: automobiles, trucks, recreational vehicles, boats, personal water craft and motorcycles. A service contract, or extended warranty, may act the same as a manufacturer's warranty in terms of providing coverage under the Lemon Law for used vehicles.
Does the Lemon Law apply to leases?
Yes. The Lemon Law applies to leased products as well as products that are purchased.
How long do I have to bring my case?
You may bring a case under the Lemon Law within four years of the date you knew, or should have known, the product was a "lemon".
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Lemon Law
Great information. Thanks so much for sharing. The california lemon law can really save the day sometimes. I found additional useful info at this site and it really helped me.
California Lemon Law
Lemon Law Additional Information
For new and used car buyers IN CALIFORNIA ONLY: Below is a sample of the information provided on the DMV site at http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/brochures/fast_facts/ffvr35.htm.
Dealers must provide an itemized price list for items such as warranties and insurance, etc., if the items are being financed.
Dealer compensation from an institution financing the purchase of a vehicle is limited to no more than 2 percent for a loan term over 60 months and 2.5 percent for a loan term of 60 months or less.
Dealers must provide buyers with their credit score and an explanation of how it is used.
For used car buyers only
The California DMV web site provides updated information on what is and what is not acceptable when buying a new or used car:
A used car buyer may obtain a two-day sales contract cancellation option.
Used cars advertised as “certified” must meet specific requirements.
Used car buyers may purchase a two-day sales contract cancellation option.
There is no “cooling off” period unless you obtain a contract cancellation option. Consumers who purchase a used car for less than $40,000 must be given an opportunity to purchase a two-day Contract Cancellation Option Agreement.
Important: The contract cancellation option does not apply to used cars priced at $40,000 or more, new cars, private party sales, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, recreational vehicles, or vehicles sold for business or commercial use.
SAM
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