Key Takeaways:

• In California, a dealership can keep your car for warranty repairs for up to 30 days.
• If your vehicle is in the shop for more than 30 days, it could be considered a lemon. 
• Knowing your rights and what the dealership is responsible for can help you take action if repairs take too long. 

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Having your car in the shop is frustrating, especially when it feels like it’s taking forever to get fixed. Fortunately, in California, there are rules that protect you in these situations, especially under the Lemon Law. 

Find out what steps you can take if your car is stuck in the shop for too long below.

How Long Can a Dealership Hold Your Car for Repair in California?

In California, a dealership can keep your car for warranty repairs for up to 30 days total. Those days don’t have to be in a row; it just means the total time your vehicle spends in the shop for the same problem. If it’s in for more than 30 days, your car might be considered a lemon under California’s Lemon Law. 

How Long Do Dealerships Take to Fix Cars?

It can vary quite a bit. Some repairs are quick, while others may take weeks. Small jobs like an oil change or brake replacement are usually done the same day. Warranty repairs, on the other hand, often take much longer.

Average Repair Times

• Oil Change: About an hour. 
• Brake Replacement: 2-3 hours. 
• Engine Diagnostics: 1-3 days. 
• Warranty Repairs: 10-20 days, depending on the problem and if parts are available. 

Why Do Dealerships Take So Long to Fix a Car?

There are a few reasons why dealership repairs may take longer than expected:

Supply Chain Issues

Parts aren’t always easy to get. Supply chain slowdowns and backorders can stretch out repair times, especially if your car needs a specific or hard-to-find part. Even common parts for popular models can sometimes be delayed, which could leave your car stuck in the shop until everything arrives.




Diagnostic Challenges

Not every issue is straightforward. Some problems take time to track down, and dealerships may need to run multiple tests or try different fixes before finding the root cause. Electrical and computer-related issues are especially tricky and often lead to longer repair times.




Workload and Staffing

Dealership service centers are often busy. If they’re short-staffed or handling a high volume of vehicles, your car may sit in line longer before work even begins. This could add days or weeks to the overall repair process.

What Happens If a Warranty Issue Can’t Be Repaired?

If a warranty issue can’t be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts, the manufacturer may be required to replace your vehicle or give you a full refund under California’s Lemon Law.

What Role Does the Dealership Play?

Dealerships act as intermediaries between you and the manufacturer. When you bring your car in, they attempt repairs under the manufacturer’s warranty. If those don’t fix the issue, they relay that back to the manufacturer.

When Should You Hire a Lemon Law Attorney?

If your vehicle has been in the dealership for an extended period without resolution, it may be time to consult a Lemon Law attorney. For your car to qualify as a lemon, these conditions need to be met: 

• You bought or leased it in California. 
• The problem hasn’t been fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts. 
• The issue is covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. 
• The defect isn’t caused by misuse or neglect. 

Has the Dealership Held Your Car for Too Long? Contact Us

If your dealership has kept your 2020 or newer car for too long, it may be time to take action. Our team is here to stand by your side and fight for the refund or replacement you deserve. Call 818-244-3905 or contact our California firm today to find out how we can help.

Schedule my consultation

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✓ Content checked by the lemon law attorneys at Norman Taylor & Associates