California’s Lemon Law is getting some big updates, and if you’ve recently bought a car or you’re dealing with constant vehicle issues, these changes could affect you. The law has always been there to protect drivers stuck with defective vehicles, but the new rules might change how you go about getting help. 

Learn more about what’s changing, what it means for you, and how to make sure your rights stay protected below! 

 

What Is the California Lemon Law?

The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act protects people who buy or lease vehicles with serious, recurring problems. If your car qualifies as a “lemon,” the manufacturer must repair it, replace it, or refund you. Typically, if your car’s been in the shop several times for the same issue or out of service for 30 days total, you may be eligible.

 

What Is Being Changed in 2025?

California’s Lemon Law is getting an overhaul, and it’s important to know what these changes mean for you. Here’s our attorney’s breakdown of what’s new and how it could impact your rights as a consumer:

 

Shorter Deadlines to File Claims

Under Assembly Bill 1755 (AB 1755), the timeframe for filing a lemon law claim has been tightened to either one year after the vehicle’s express warranty expires or no later than six years after the vehicle’s original delivery date, whichever comes first; this means that even if your warranty is longer, you must act within these specified periods. 

However, the statute of limitations may be tolled for the time the vehicle is out of service for repairs or up to 60 days after a pre-suit notice is provided.

 

Written Notice Is Now Required

Before they can sue for civil penalties, consumers must provide written notice to the manufacturer at least 30 days prior to filing a lawsuit. This notice must include: 

• Your name and contact information
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• A summary of the repair history and vehicle issues
• A request for repurchase or replacement
 

You Must Keep the Vehicle for 30 Days

After sending the written notice, you must keep the vehicle for at least 30 days. If the manufacturer agrees to repurchase or replace the car within this period, you must continue to retain possession until the settlement is completed. Otherwise, it could jeopardize your claim.

 

Mandatory Mediation

If a claim isn’t resolved after the notice period, mandatory mediation is required within 150 days after the defendant files an answer or other responsive pleading. This step is designed to facilitate dispute resolution without court involvement.

 

Standard Settlement Forms

Manufacturers are now required to use standardized, state-approved settlement agreements. This means they can no longer sneak in overly restrictive terms that limit your rights.

 

Refund Limitations

Under the updated law, consumers may not receive compensation for negative equity on their vehicles. If you owe more on your car loan than the vehicle’s trade-in value, you might not be reimbursed for that difference.

 

Faster Manufacturer Response Times

Manufacturers are now subject to specific deadlines to respond to claims and complete buybacks or replacements. The goal of this is to expedite the resolution process for consumers.

The bottom line: These changes add more rules and complicate the process. If you’re considering filing a lemon law claim, talking to a lawyer who knows the updated law inside and out is a good idea.

 

Why Are These Changes Happening?

The recent changes to California’s Lemon Law are meant to strike a balance between the interests of consumers and auto manufacturers. Over the past decade, there’s been a notable increase in lemon law claims, which has led to concerns about court congestion and the possibility of people filing lawsuits without real cause. Supporters of the reforms say the updates will help simplify the process and make things more efficient for everyone involved. 

On the other hand, consumer advocates worry that these changes could make it harder for people with real car problems to get the help they need. Stricter requirements might mean more hoops for consumers to jump through, which could leave some stuck with unsafe or defective vehicles.

 

How Can Consumers Protect Themselves?

With the recent updates to California’s Lemon Law, it’s more important than ever for consumers to take steps to protect themselves. 

 

Know Your Deadlines

Consumers may now face a higher burden of proof when demonstrating their vehicle qualifies as a lemon. 

Make sure you understand the new time limits for filing a claim. Keep an eye on your vehicle’s warranty and act quickly if you notice any defects. The sooner you start the process, the better your chances of success.

 

Document Everything

Hang on to all receipts, repair orders, emails, and anything related to your vehicle’s problems. Having a clear paper trail makes it much easier to prove your case.

 

Consult a Lemon Law Attorney

The new rules can be confusing, so it’s best to speak with an experienced lemon law attorney. They can walk you through the process and help ensure everything is done correctly.

 

Be Prepared for Mediation

If your claim progresses to mediation, be ready to provide all necessary documentation and evidence. This includes repair records, communication logs, and any expenses incurred due to the vehicle’s defects.

 

Don’t Wait! Contact Our Firm If You Think You Have a Lemon

At Norman Taylor & Associates, lemon law is what we do. Our team knows the intricacies of the law and is here to fight for your rights. We’ll guide you through the claims process and make sure you’re not navigating it alone. Call 818-244-3905 or reach out today for a FREE consultation!

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