Dealing with a defective vehicle is already enough of a headache, but things can take even more of a turn for the worse when the manufacturer starts disputing your claim instead of fixing the problem. 

Although California’s Lemon Law is one of the strongest in the country, manufacturers don’t automatically approve every case. In fact, in many situations, they’ll try to argue that the defect isn’t serious enough or the problem falls outside warranty coverage altogether. 

Read more about the most common defenses manufacturers use in lemon law cases and what you can do below.

Key Takeaways: 

• Manufacturers challenge Lemon Law claims by arguing the defect isn’t serious or covered under warranty.
• Repair records, service history, and written communication can all become important evidence in disputed claims.
• Even if a manufacturer claims the vehicle was repaired, ongoing problems may still support a California Lemon Law case.

What Is a Lemon Law Claim?

A California Lemon Law claim generally involves a vehicle with ongoing defects that the manufacturer has been unable to properly repair within a reasonable number of attempts. In most cases, the issue must substantially affect the vehicle’s safety, use, or value. For example, recurring engine problems, transmission defects, electrical failures, brake issues, or other problems that persist despite repeated repair visits. 

Depending on the situation, consumers may be entitled to a refund or replacement vehicle.

Why Do Manufacturers Fight Lemon Law Claims?

Manufacturers don’t automatically approve lemon law claims because they’re trying to limit costs and protect their reputation. Replacing a vehicle or issuing a refund can be expensive, especially when it includes taxes, fees, and other related costs. Beyond that, manufacturers also want to avoid the perception that their vehicles are unreliable. 

Because of this, it’s not unusual for them to push back or argue that the situation doesn’t meet the legal requirements.

Common Manufacturer Defense Tactics

Manufacturers tend to rely on a handful of common defenses when challenging lemon law claims. 

The Burden of Proof

One of the most common arguments is that the consumer hasn’t provided enough proof. In a lemon law case, it’s your responsibility to show that a defect exists and that it hasn’t been properly fixed. Manufacturers may argue that the issue isn’t clearly documented or that there isn’t enough evidence to support your claim.

Solution: The best way to handle this is by keeping detailed records. Repair orders, service invoices, and written communication with the dealership or manufacturer can all help show a clear pattern of ongoing problems.

No Substantial Defect Exists

Another common defense is that the issue doesn’t qualify as a “substantial defect.” Manufacturers may claim that the problem is minor or doesn’t affect how the vehicle drives, its safety, or its overall value. In other words, they may try to downplay the seriousness of the issue.

Solution: In these situations, it can help to clearly show how the defect affects your day-to-day use of the vehicle. If the issue impacts reliability, safety, or resale value, documentation and professional evaluations could be instrumental to supporting your claim.

Insufficient Repair Attempts

Manufacturers may also argue that they weren’t given enough opportunities to fix the problem. California law requires a “reasonable number” of repair attempts, but what constitutes a reasonable number can vary depending on the situation. If the manufacturer believes you didn’t give them enough chances, they may deny the claim.

Solution: Keeping a timeline of repair visits can make a big difference here. Showing repeated attempts to fix the same issue will help demonstrate that the problem wasn’t resolved despite multiple efforts.

Warranty Coverage Issues

In some cases, manufacturers argue that the problem isn’t covered under the vehicle’s warranty. They might claim the warranty expired or that the specific issue falls outside of what the warranty covers. This can be a sticking point, especially if the defect wasn’t clearly identified early on. 

Solution: Carefully review your warranty terms. If the issue started while the vehicle was still under warranty, that information can help support your case, even if the problem continued afterward.

Modification or Abuse Claims

Another defense is that the issue was caused by the owner, not the manufacturer. If a vehicle has been modified or hasn’t been properly maintained, the manufacturer may argue that those factors caused the defect. This can include anything from aftermarket parts to missed maintenance.

Solution: To respond to this, it helps to have service records that show consistent maintenance and care. If the vehicle has been used as intended, that documentation can help show the issue is tied to the vehicle itself.

Time Frame Defense

Manufacturers may say the defect was reported too late or that it falls outside the legal window for filing a claim. If they can show the issue didn’t come up within the required timeframe, they may try to deny responsibility.

Solution: Records showing when the issue first appeared and when it was reported can help establish that your claim falls within the required time limits.

What If The Manufacturer Says The Defect Was Fixed?

One of the more common responses manufacturers give is that the problem has already been repaired, but a lot of the time, consumers will continue to experience the same issue shortly thereafter. If the defect comes back, keep bringing the vehicle in for repairs and continue saving every repair order and invoice you receive. A recurring issue, even after multiple “completed” repairs, can still support a California Lemon Law claim.

It also helps to pay attention to patterns. For instance, if a problem only happens under certain driving conditions. The more consistent documentation you have, the easier it’ll be to show the issue was never fully resolved.

Frequently Asked Lemon Law Questions

What Car Defects Are Covered Under California Lemon Law?

As mentioned above, California Lemon Law generally applies to defects that substantially affect a vehicle’s use, value, or safety. Minor cosmetic concerns that don’t meaningfully affect the vehicle typically won’t qualify on their own.

What Remedies Are Available If I Win My California Lemon Law Case?

If your claim is successful, the manufacturer may be required to repurchase the vehicle or replace it. 

A refund typically includes the purchase price along with taxes, fees, and certain related expenses. In some cases, you may also be reimbursed for costs tied to the defect, such as repairs or rental vehicles.

Have Questions About a Potential California Lemon Law Claim?

California’s lemon law exists to make sure consumers aren’t stuck with unsafe or unreliable vehicles. If your 2021 or newer vehicle has ongoing issues and the manufacturer isn’t budging, our experienced team is ready to step in to help you get the compensation you may be entitled to. 

Do you think you could have a lemon car on your hands? Contact our California firm today or call 818-244-3905 or 888-817-8822 to schedule a FREE, no-obligation consultation!