Stockton Lemon Law Attorney

California’s Lemon Law exists to help people who’ve bought or leased vehicles that keep breaking down even after several repair attempts. When a car spends more time in the shop than on the road, it’s not just a hassle; it can throw off your routine, drain your wallet, and leave you without reliable transportation.

If you live in Stockton and think your car might qualify under the Lemon Law, speaking with a Stockton lemon law attorney at Neale & Fhima APC can help you understand your next steps. We’ve helped many clients in Stockton and the surrounding areas obtain favorable results from their defective automobile claims.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re ready to hold the dealer or manufacturer responsible and improve your odds of getting the resolution you seek. We’re also here to help pursue compensation on your behalf for any injuries or losses you suffered because of the faulty car.

What Is California’s Lemon Law?

California’s Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, protects people who buy or lease new and used vehicles under manufacturer warranties. If your car has recurring problems that aren’t getting fixed, the law gives you a way to hold the automaker accountable.

The law applies to cars, trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles that are covered under a manufacturer’s warranty and purchased or leased for personal, family, or household use. Some vehicles used for business also qualify, depending on the size of the business and the vehicle’s weight.

Types of Vehicles Protected

New and used vehicles both qualify under the law, as long as they came with a factory warranty. That includes:

• Cars
• Pickup trucks
• SUVs
• Vans
• Some motorcycles
• Some dealer-owned demonstrator or loaner vehicles

Commercial vehicles may qualify if your business has fewer than five registered vehicles and the one in question weighs under 10,000 pounds.

Timeline Requirements for Lemon Law Claims

California’s law gives you four years to bring a lemon law claim. That clock usually starts running from the date you first noticed the defect. Acting early can help preserve your options and give your attorney more room to work with.

Does Your Vehicle Qualify as a Lemon?

Not every vehicle with problems counts as a lemon. The law looks at the nature of the defect, how many times repairs have been attempted, and how long the vehicle was out of service.

Substantial Defects That Affect Safety or Value

Minor annoyances don’t count. The defect has to affect your safety, your ability to use the car, or its value. For example, brake issues or faulty airbags qualify, but a broken cup holder won’t make the cut.

Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts

If the dealership tried multiple times to fix the same issue and couldn’t do it, your car might qualify. What counts as “reasonable” depends on the problem. Dangerous defects, like steering or brake issues, usually require fewer attempts.

Out of Service Time Requirements

Even if the car was only repaired once or twice, you may still qualify if it spent 30 days or more in the shop for repairs under warranty. The days don’t have to be in a row.

Common Lemon Law Issues in Stockton

Stockton drivers deal with unique vehicle problems thanks to local weather and driving conditions. Long summer heat waves, dusty roads, and heavy traffic can put extra wear on your car. Some of the most common lemon law issues include:

• Excessive heat can cause overheating, A/C failure, or premature wear on engine components.
• Transmission and engine problems such as rough shifting, stalling, or engine misfires are frequent complaints.
• Electrical system failures like battery drain, power seat malfunctions, or glitchy infotainment screens can impact daily driving.
• Safety system defects, including airbags, backup cameras, or lane assist sensors, may not work as intended and put you at risk.

What Remedies Are Available Under Lemon Law?

If your car meets the requirements, the law gives you several options. You shouldn’t be stuck with a car that doesn’t work right.

Vehicle Replacement Options

You may be able to exchange your vehicle for one that’s similar in make and model. The replacement must be new or comparable, and the manufacturer must cover the taxes, licensing, and registration fees associated with the swap.

Full Refund Calculations

Instead of a replacement, you can ask for a refund. This usually includes:

• Down payment
• Monthly payments
• Registration and taxes
• Any out-of-pocket repair or rental car costs

The manufacturer may subtract a small amount for the miles driven before the defect first appeared.

Attorney Fees and Costs Recovery

If your claim qualifies, California law makes the manufacturer pay your attorney’s fees and court costs. That means you won’t have to pay out of pocket to fight for your rights.

How Do I Document My Lemon Law Case?

The more proof you have, the stronger your case. Keeping records and writing down what happens during each repair visit can make a big difference.

Essential Repair Records and Documentation

Always ask for a repair order when you drop off your vehicle and a detailed invoice when you pick it up. These documents should describe:

• The reported problem
• The work performed
• The time spent in the shop
• Parts replaced or tested

Don’t rely on memory. Written proof helps your attorney show that the manufacturer had multiple chances to fix the issue.

Communication with Dealers and Manufacturers

Keep copies of any texts, emails, or letters between you and the dealer or manufacturer. Notes from phone calls can also help. Include names, dates, and summaries of what was discussed.

Warranty Information Preservation

Hang onto your sales contract and warranty booklet. These documents explain your warranty coverage and can show that the problem started while the car was still under warranty.

Manufacturer Defenses and How to Counter Them

Automakers don’t always admit fault. They may try to deny or delay your claim. Knowing how they respond can help you push back.

• Misuse or abuse allegations happen when a manufacturer claims you caused the problem by driving too hard, skipping maintenance, or modifying the car.
• Warranty coverage disputes may come up when the company says the repair wasn’t covered under warranty or the defect began after the warranty expired.
• Settlement pressure tactics include offering a small cash payout instead of a proper buyback or replacement. They may hope you’ll accept less just to get the problem over with.

An attorney can push back on these claims using solid evidence, timelines, and legal knowledge.

How Our Attorneys Can Help

Neale & Fhima APC has handled hundreds of Lemon Law cases throughout California. When you work with our team, we’ll manage every step for you.

• We start by reviewing your case and identifying legal options.
• We contact the manufacturer or dealer on your behalf so you don’t have to deal with them directly.
• We work to reach a settlement that reflects the full value of your claim.
• If the manufacturer won’t cooperate, we will take your case to court.
• We focus on securing the maximum compensation available under California law.
• Throughout the process, we keep your paperwork in order and protect your rights.

When You’ve Been Harmed by a Defective Vehicle

If a vehicle defect caused a crash, or a defective component in the car injured you or a passenger, your case might go beyond Lemon Law. When a faulty vehicle leads to serious injuries or death, the manufacturer or dealer could be responsible. Speak with our team about whether you may have a product liability or wrongful death claim in addition to your Lemon Law case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stockton Lemon Law

How long do I have to file a Lemon Law claim in California?

You usually have four years from the date you first noticed the problem. Waiting too long could limit your options, so act as soon as possible.

Can I still pursue a claim if I bought my car used?

Yes, as long as the car was sold with a factory warranty that was still valid when the problem began. Extended service contracts and third-party warranties don’t qualify.

What if the dealership is no longer in business?

Your claim would be against the manufacturer, not the dealer. Even if the dealership closed or changed ownership, the automaker remains responsible under the law.

Do I need to hire an attorney for a Lemon Law case?

While you can try handling the case yourself, having a lawyer who understands the law can help improve your outcome. The manufacturer has lawyers on their side. You should too.

Let Our Lemon Law Attorneys in Stockton Help

Auto manufacturers should be held accountable when they sell defective cars. If your vehicle keeps having problems and the dealer can’t fix them, don’t wait for things to get worse.

Neale & Fhima APC has helped drivers from neighborhoods like Brookside and Spanos Park take legal action under California’s Lemon Law. Our team is ready to help you pursue the maximum compensation available. Schedule a free consultation with a Stockton lemon law attorney today and find out what options may be available to you. Call 949-661-1007 now, and let us help you resolve your case.