Here in California, consumer rights are taken far more seriously than they are in some of the other states. One is our state’s Lemon Law, which vigorously protects consumers from purchasing cars with known defects.
The recourse the Lemon Law offers can be quite helpful to Californians who buy cars with any of the below defects.
Multiple water leaks
Over time, leaks create mold that can develop into premature rusting. Water leakage is also responsible for electrical shorts th4at can completely shut down a vehicle.
Failed brake systems
Few things are as important in a car or passenger truck as working brake pedals. Not just a minor annoyance, this is a full-blown safety issue that must be immediately addressed to avoid disaster.
Bad transmissions
A bad transmission equals a big problem. Strange noises, jerking shift transitions and cars accidentally slipping out of gear are all hallmarks of a transmission that is on its last legs. Replacing a bad transmission will set you back quite a bit. If it was sold wittingly to you like that, you may have legal recourse.
Engine defects
If your recently purchased car starts stalling in traffic, has engine lights that light up like a switchboard, belches smoke or leaves oil stains, loses power, grinds, knocks or ticks . . . you may have just bought a lemon instead of the reliable vehicle you were told you were buying.
Understand your legal options after buying a lemon
No one wants to admit that they got ripped off. But recognizing the transaction as fraudulent is the first step in correcting the wrong that was done to you by selling you a vehicle known to be a lemon.