Navigating the Lemon Law Claim Process in Torrance

Buying a new vehicle should bring excitement and confidence, but what happens when your car turns out to be a lemon? In Torrance, California, consumers have specific rights under the state's lemon law designed to protect them from defective vehicles. Understanding the process for filing a lemon law claim can save you time, money, and frustration. This guide breaks down the steps clearly so you know what to expect and how to act if your vehicle fails to meet quality standards.

What Is the Lemon Law in Torrance?

California’s lemon law, officially called the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, protects buyers who purchase or lease new vehicles that turn out to have substantial defects. These defects must significantly impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. The law applies to new cars, trucks, SUVs, and even some used vehicles still under the original manufacturer’s warranty.

In Torrance, as in the rest of California, the law requires manufacturers to either replace the defective vehicle or refund the purchase price if the problem cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts.

Step 1: Identify If Your Vehicle Qualifies as a Lemon

Before filing a claim, confirm that your vehicle meets the lemon law criteria:

• The defect must occur within the warranty period, typically 18 months or 18,000 miles.

• The defect must substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.

• The manufacturer or dealer has had a reasonable number of attempts to repair the defect, usually four or more.

• The vehicle has been out of service for repair for a total of 30 or more days.

  
  

For example, if your new car’s engine repeatedly fails despite multiple repairs, and it has been in the shop for over a month, you likely qualify.

Step 2: Keep Detailed Records

Documentation is critical when filing a lemon law claim. Keep all repair orders, invoices, and communication with the dealer or manufacturer. Record dates when the vehicle was in for repairs and the nature of each problem. This evidence supports your claim and shows the manufacturer’s failure to fix the issue.

Step 3: Notify the Manufacturer

California law requires you to notify the manufacturer about the defect and give them a final chance to repair the vehicle. This is often done through a formal letter called a "final repair opportunity" letter. It should include:

• Your contact information

• Vehicle details (make, model, VIN)

• Description of the defect

• Repair history

• Request for a final repair attempt

  
  

Send this letter via certified mail to have proof of delivery. The manufacturer usually has 30 days to respond or fix the problem.

Step 4: Contact a Lemon Law Attorney

If the manufacturer cannot fix the defect after the final repair attempt, it’s wise to consult a lemon law attorney in Torrance. These lawyers specialize in consumer rights and can guide you through the claim process. They often work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay only if you win the case.

An attorney can help:

• Evaluate your case’s strength

• Negotiate with the manufacturer

• File a lawsuit if necessary

• Maximize your chances of a refund or replacement

  
  

Step 5: File a Lemon Law Claim

If negotiations fail, your attorney may file a lemon law claim in court. The claim will include all your documentation and evidence of the manufacturer’s failure to repair the vehicle. The court can order the manufacturer to:

• Replace the vehicle with a comparable one

• Refund the purchase price minus a reasonable usage fee

• Pay your attorney fees and court costs

  
  

Most lemon law cases settle before trial, but having legal representation increases your chances of a favorable outcome.

Step 6: Understand the Possible Outcomes

Once your claim is filed, the manufacturer may offer a settlement. This could be a replacement vehicle or a refund. If you accept, the case ends. If not, the case proceeds to court.

Keep in mind:

• Refunds usually include the purchase price, taxes, registration fees, and other costs.

• You may have to pay a usage fee based on how long you used the vehicle before reporting the defect.

• Attorney fees are often covered by the manufacturer if you win.

  
  

Tips for a Smooth Lemon Law Claim in Torrance

• Act quickly: Don’t delay reporting defects or filing claims.

• Stay organized: Keep all paperwork in one place.

• Be clear and concise in communication.

• Use certified mail for important notices.

• Seek professional legal advice early.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Filing a lemon law claim in Torrance can seem overwhelming, but knowing the steps helps you protect your rights. Keep detailed records, notify the manufacturer, and consider legal help if repairs fail. The lemon law exists to ensure you don’t get stuck with a defective vehicle. If your car is causing repeated problems, take action to get the resolution you deserve.