Buying a new car is supposed to make things easier for you and bring you peace of mind. Yet, some drivers end up dealing with a frustrating cycle of repairs and breakdowns. California’s lemon law exists for the sake of consumers. What we mean is that this law protects individuals who bought a defective vehicle that even the manufacturer cannot repair, even though they’ve tried to do so several times.
In addition, if your car continues to show major defects, it may qualify as a lemon. Here are the top signs you should look out for.
Table of Contents
Persistent Engine or Transmission
The engine and transmission can be said to be the heart of a vehicle. The following could be signs that the heart of your vehicle is failing:
When you have fixed these issues several times, and they keep recurring, it often signals deeper defects. Many lemon law attorneys stress that consistent performance issues can strongly support a lemon law claim.
Electrical Failures
Electrical systems in modern vehicles are responsible for a lot of functions. This includes starting the engine, powering the headlights, dashboards, and infotainment, and more. When your car keeps experiencing the following, they are clear red flags:
These issues can pose safety risks. This is especially true if it involves headlights, airbags, or safety sensors.
Brake and Steering Defects
Safety defects are among the most serious indicators of a lemon. These defects include:
All of the above are very dangerous and quite common in lemon law cases. If you’ve carried out multiple repairs and the defects persist, the law may be on your side.
Repeated Fluid Leaks
When oil, transmission fluid, or power steering fluid is always leaking, do not just consider it a nuisance. They are serious issues that can cause major system failures. The following are often signs of irreparable defects:
Your vehicle may qualify under the lemon law if it keeps leaking fluids even though you’ve taken it to the repair shop on multiple occasions.
Heating and Air Conditioning Malfunctions
Climate control issues may not look like a big deal to you at first until your comfort and car’s value get affected. If your system is not blowing cold air in summer or heat in winter, it may be a sign of a manufacturing flaw. It’s even more pronounced if you’ve attempted several repairs. You can also get further proof to support your claim if there are unpleasant odors from the vents or problems with air circulation.
Unusual Noises and Vibrations
If you notice your car shaking, grinding, or making an odd knocking sound when you drive, do not just dismiss it. The following are often signs of deeper issues with the suspension, brakes, or transmission:
Documenting these issues with notes or video can help show that the problem is persistent.
Excessive Time in the Repair Shop
California’s Lemon Law recognizes that your car doesn’t have to be completely undriveable to qualify as lemon. As a matter of fact, if it has been out of service for 30 days or more within the warranty period, it qualifies as lemon. Consulting a California lemon law attorney will help you understand this law better.
Endnote
It’s unfair if your car constantly breaks down or puts your safety at risk. By recognizing the signs of a lemon, you can protect your rights and seek the resolution you deserve.
