Fees & compensation
Who pays the lemon law attorney’s fees?
Not you — the manufacturer does. California lemon law requires the manufacturer to pay reasonable attorney’s fees in successful claims, so you don’t lose part of your compensation to legal costs.
If my vehicle qualifies, what compensation am I entitled to?
Possibly a buyback covering your monthly payments, down payment, registration fees and loan or lease payoff, minus a legally required mileage deduction. Incidental costs like towing and rentals may also be covered, and in some cases you can choose a replacement or a cash settlement while keeping the car. Remedies depend on your case.
Vehicle eligibility
Does California lemon law cover leased vehicles?
Yes. Leased vehicles covered by an express or written manufacturer warranty are protected if recurring defects aren’t fixed after a reasonable number of attempts.
Does California lemon law cover used vehicles?
It may. Used vehicles bought or leased with an express or written warranty — including many certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles — can qualify if covered defects aren’t repaired after reasonable attempts.
Filing a claim
When is the deadline to file a California lemon law claim?
Generally within four years of discovering the vehicle may be a lemon or the warranty expiring, whichever comes first. Because “discovery” depends on the facts, it’s important not to wait.