Rodriguez v FCA How California Lemon Law Protects Your Certified Pre-Owned and Used Cars

Buying a used or certified pre-owned (CPO) car in California can feel risky, especially if the vehicle has hidden problems. Many buyers assume lemon law protections only apply to new cars. The recent case of Rodriguez v. FCA US, LLC changed that assumption. This important court decision confirmed that certain used and CPO vehicles sold with manufacturer warranties qualify for protection under California’s Lemon Law. If you’re a California consumer considering a used or CPO vehicle, understanding this ruling can help you protect your rights.

Certified pre-owned car at dealership lot

Case Overview

In Rodriguez v. FCA US, LLC, the California court addressed whether used and certified pre-owned vehicles come under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, commonly known as the California Lemon Law. The plaintiff, Rodriguez, bought a CPO vehicle from FCA US, LLC (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles). The vehicle had a manufacturer-backed warranty but experienced repeated defects.

The court ruled that when a used or CPO vehicle is sold with a manufacturer warranty, it qualifies for Lemon Law protection just like a new car. This means consumers can seek remedies if the vehicle has substantial defects that impair its use, value, or safety, and the manufacturer fails to fix the issues after a reasonable number of repair attempts.

This ruling confirms that the Lemon Law applies beyond new cars and covers many used and certified pre-owned vehicles sold with warranties from the manufacturer.

CPO and Used Car Coverage Under California Lemon Law

Certified pre-owned vehicles often come with manufacturer-backed warranties that cover repairs for a certain period or mileage. These warranties trigger protections under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act. The law requires manufacturers to repair defects that substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety within the warranty period.

Used cars sold with such warranties are not excluded from Lemon Law protections. If the manufacturer cannot fix the problem after a reasonable number of attempts, the buyer may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund.

Key points about CPO and used car coverage:

• Manufacturer warranty must be in effect at the time of sale.

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

• Reasonable repair attempts must have been made without success.

• The vehicle must be within the warranty period or mileage limits.

  
  

This means buyers of CPO and certain used cars have legal options if their vehicle turns out to be a lemon.

Why This Case Matters for California Consumers

Before Rodriguez v. FCA, many consumers and dealers believed Lemon Law protections applied only to new vehicles. This case expanded and clarified consumer rights by confirming that used and certified pre-owned vehicles with manufacturer warranties are covered.

For California buyers, this means:

• Greater confidence when purchasing CPO or used cars with warranties.

• Legal recourse if the vehicle has persistent defects.

• Protection against unfair warranty denials by manufacturers.

• Access to remedies like vehicle replacement or refund.

  
  

This decision strengthens consumer protections and encourages manufacturers to honor warranties on used and CPO vehicles.

Mechanic inspecting car engine for defects

Common Defects in CPO and Used Cars Covered by Lemon Law

Many used and certified pre-owned vehicles face recurring problems that can qualify under California Lemon Law. Some common defects include:

• Repeated repair attempts for the same issue without resolution.

• Warranty denials or delays in authorizing repairs.

• Electrical system failures causing safety or usability problems.

• Engine or transmission defects that affect performance.

• Brake or steering system malfunctions.

• Persistent leaks or mechanical failures.

  
  

If you experience these issues and the manufacturer cannot fix them after multiple tries, you may have a valid Lemon Law claim.

Why You Need a Torrance Lemon Law Attorney

Manufacturers often use complex defenses to avoid Lemon Law claims, such as blaming user error or denying warranty coverage. Navigating these legal challenges requires an experienced attorney who understands California Lemon Law and manufacturer tactics.

A Torrance Lemon Law attorney can:

• Review your case and warranty documents.

• Communicate with the manufacturer on your behalf.

• Help document repair attempts and defects.

• Negotiate settlements or represent you in court.

• Ensure you receive the full benefits of Lemon Law protections.

  
  

Without legal help, many consumers struggle to get fair resolutions. An experienced CPO Lemon Law attorney can level the playing field.

How LawyerDeb Can Help You with Your Lemon Law Claim

LawyerDeb at Cali Law Firm, APC, is a trusted California Lemon Law attorney based in Torrance. With years of experience handling CPO and used car lemon law claims, LawyerDeb understands the challenges consumers face.

Here’s how LawyerDeb supports you:

• Free initial consultations to evaluate your case.

• Clear explanations of your rights under California Lemon Law.

• Aggressive representation to get you a refund or replacement.

• No upfront attorney fees; manufacturers pay if you win.

• Personalized attention to your unique situation.

  
  

If you suspect your CPO or used car is a lemon, LawyerDeb can guide you through the process and fight for your rights.

Lemon Law attorney consulting with client in office

Take Action If You Need a Lemon Law Attorney Near You

If you are dealing with a defective certified pre-owned or used car in California, don’t wait. The Rodriguez v. FCA case confirms you have rights under the Lemon Law. Searching for a California Lemon Law Attorney or Lemon Law Lawyer Torrance CA is the first step to protecting yourself.

Contact LawyerDeb at Cali Law Firm, APC for a free consultation. Get the legal help you need to hold manufacturers accountable and get the relief you deserve.