Buying a car is a major investment, and the last thing you want is to end up with a vehicle that constantly needs repairs. Thankfully, California’s Lemon Law helps protect consumers from these kinds of headaches. The law offers a way to get a refund or replacement if your car has serious defects that can’t be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts. 

But starting in 2025, California’s Lemon Law got an update. Thanks to Assembly Bill 1755 (AB 1755) and Senate Bill 26 (SB 26), car manufacturers now have the option to “opt in” to a new set of procedures. So, how does this affect you as a consumer? And which manufacturers have chosen to participate?

Here’s everything you need to know about the opt-in provision and what it means for your Lemon Law claim.

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Key Takeaways:

• California’s updated Lemon Law (AB 1755 and SB 26) allows automakers to voluntarily opt in to a new, more structured claims process. 
• Opting in requires manufacturers to follow specific steps, like mandatory mediation and written notices. 
• Consumers whose vehicles have unresolved defects may still pursue claims under the traditional Lemon Law if the manufacturer hasn’t opted in.

What Is the Opt-In Provision in California’s Lemon Law?

California’s Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that have serious defects affecting their safety, use, or value. If a defect isn’t fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts, the consumer may be entitled to a refund or replacement vehicle. 

In 2025, the law was updated through Assembly Bill 1755 (AB 1755) and Senate Bill 26 (SB 26). Together, these changes introduced a new opt-in system for automakers. This framework allows manufacturers to choose whether they want to follow the updated procedures for resolving Lemon Law claims. 

The goal was to create a more efficient process for both consumers and manufacturers; however, it also means that the steps you take to file may not depend on whether your car’s manufacturer has opted in. 

How the Opt-In Process Works (and Why It Matters)

Under the new framework, manufacturers can voluntarily “opt in” to California’s revised Lemon Law procedures. Once they do, they’re bound by the new rules for at least five years. 

If your manufacturer has opted in, you must follow new steps before filing a lawsuit, such as providing written notice of the issue and participating in mandatory mediation. These extra steps are designed to help resolve disputes faster, but they also make the process more structured. 

What If the Manufacturer Doesn’t Opt In?

If your manufacturer hasn’t opted in, the traditional Lemon Law process still applies. That means you can usually move forward without mediation, and the timeline for filing your claim may be longer.

Which Manufacturers Have Opted In

As of May 2025, several major automakers have chosen to participate in the Lemon Law procedures. According to the California Department of Consumer Affairs, the following manufacturers have officially opted in: 

• Ford
• General Motors
• Stellantis (FCA)
• Hyundai
• Kia
• Jaguar Land Rover
• Maserati
• Mercedes-Benz
• Nissan 
• Subaru  

It’s important to note that participation can change from year to year, so checking the most recent list on the Department of Consumer Affairs website is the best way to confirm your manufacturer’s current status. 

Changes Introduced by AB 1755 and SB 26

For automakers that opt in, the new process now includes mandatory mediation before a lawsuit can be filed so that both sides have a chance to resolve the issue without going to court. 

Consumers are also required to provide a written notice of the defect at least 30 days before filing a claim, which gives the manufacturer time to respond. Once a buyback or replacement is approved, the manufacturer must complete it within 60 days. The updates also changed the statute of limitations, which now requires claims to be filed within one year after the vehicle’s warranty expires or within six years of the delivery date, whichever comes first. 

What the New Lemon Law Changes Mean for California Consumers

The 2025 updates to California’s Lemon Law affect how quickly and efficiently consumers can resolve disputes over defective vehicles. As mentioned above, for manufacturers that opted in, the process may move faster thanks to set deadlines and required mediation, but it can also limit flexibility in some cases. 

Regardless of which version applies to your situation, you should always document repair attempts, keep copies of repair orders, and record all communication with the manufacturer or dealership. 

What to Do If You Think Your Car Is a Lemon

If you’ve made repeated attempts to repair your vehicle and the problem still isn’t fixed, you may have a lemon. The first step is to gather all your repair documentation. Then, consider reaching out to a qualified Lemon Law attorney who can review your case and help you pursue a refund or replacement. 

Contact Norman Taylor & Associates for Lemon Law Help

Navigating California’s Lemon Law can be confusing, especially with the recent changes under AB 1755 and SB 26. At Norman Taylor & Associates, we’ve helped thousands of consumers throughout California successfully resolve their Lemon Law cases. 

If you think your 2020 or newer car may qualify as a lemon, call 818-244-3905 or contact us today for a FREE consultation! 

Schedule my consultation

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