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Experienced California Lemon Law Lawyers for Used Cars

Buying a new car is not financially possible for everyone. While used cars can be more affordable, they often have potential complications.

Imagine purchasing a used car from a dealer only to encounter immediate issues. Knowing that you’re not entirely helpless or burdened with financial loss is crucial in such disheartening situations. Fortunately, California’s lemon law for used cars may grant you certain rights and protections depending on your circumstances. To file a lemon law claim, Contact Neale & Fhima, California used car lemon law attorney, at 888-407-2955.

For a vehicle to qualify under the California lemon law, all that is needed is a recurring problem.  The problem can be with different parts of the car or with the same part repeatedly.  The problem does not need to be “major” or only impact “reliability.”  Rather, the problem can be persistent, annoying, and ongoing.

Protect yourself against fraud and potential hazards associated with used vehicles. Use the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) to access details about a vehicle’s past. To get a comprehensive report, visit National Motor Vehicle Title Information System.

It is important to note that licensed dealers specializing in selling used cars must provide you with an NMVTIS report. This report provides concrete evidence of their commitment to transparency and ensures that you have access to accurate information before purchasing.

If you have a used car and have taken it several times for repair, but the problem persists, you may have a lemon and may be entitled to compensation. Neale & Fhima California used car lemon law attorneys will fiercely advocate for the settlement you rightfully deserve. Contact us at 888-407-2955 for a free consultation.

Contact Neale & Fhima at 888-407-2955 to book a free phone, video, or in-person consultation.

Why Choose Neale & Fhima, California Used Car Lemon Law Lawyer?

When dealing with the frustrating experience of purchasing a lemon, you need a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. That’s where Neale & Fhima, California used car lemon law lawyer, comes in. With an exceptional track record and a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding lemon law cases, Neale & Fhima is the advocate you can rely on to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Here are some reasons why you should choose us;

  • Extensive Experience: Lemon law cases involving used cars often present unique challenges, and having a lawyer who is knowledgeable about this particular area can make a significant difference. With 40 years of practice in lemon law cases, we have honed our skills and developed a deep understanding of the legal landscape. We have successfully litigated cases against major automotive manufacturers, earning a reputation as a tenacious and skilled advocate for our clients.
  • Aggressive Representation: When you choose Neale & Fhima as your California used car lemon law lawyer, you gain an advocate who will fight aggressively on your behalf. We are unafraid to take on powerful adversaries, including automakers and dealerships, and will diligently pursue your case to secure the justice you deserve. Our tenacity and unwavering commitment to our clients make us a formidable force in securing justice for lemon owners.
  • Client-Centered Approach: Our used car lemon law lawyers’ approach to client service centers on establishing strong relationships built on trust and open communication. We recognize the emotional and financial toll that lemon law cases can take on individuals and we strive to provide support and guidance throughout the legal process.
You need an experienced California used car lemon law attorney to handle your lemon law case. Contact Neale & Fhima at 888-407-2955 to schedule a free phone, video meeting, or in-person consultation.

Recognizing the Signs of a Defective Used Car

Understanding the signs of a defective car can help you make an informed decision and protect yourself from purchasing a lemon. Factory warranties remain in effect only for a given number of months or miles. This means lemon law cases are always time sensitive.

Here are some key signs to watch out for when evaluating a used car:

  • Engine overheating
  • Faulty ignition or fuel delivery system
  • Transmission problems
  • Steering, suspension, or alignment issues
  • Fluid leaks (engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, coolant)
  • Noisy or leaking exhaust
  • Brake problems
  • Malfunctioning latches, locks, or windows
  • Seatbelts not working properly
  • Inaccurate/broken speedometer or gauges
  • Water seeping into the interior or trunk
  • Electrical problems.

The lemon law for used cars in California covers any defect that “substantially impairs the use, value, or safety” of the vehicle. If you are unsure whether a specific defect meets this standard, contact us.

Getting Help with Your Used Lemon

California has enacted one of the strongest lemon laws in the country to protect consumers. Used-car owners who are experiencing a problem covered by warranty should take the following steps:

  • Bring the vehicle in for repair at an authorized dealership.
  • Obtain a copy of the work order (ask for a copy on the first visit, even if the dealer cannot attempt the repairs that day).
  • Contact a lemon law attorney if repairs are not completed quickly and satisfactorily.
You can reach the Neale & Fhima used car lemon law lawyers at 888-407-2955. We accept lemon law cases arising anywhere in Northern or Southern California.

What Are the Requirements for Dealers Who Buy Back Lemons?

Lemon vehicles that dealers buy back and resell must be identified as a “lemon law buyback” and have a “lemon” sticker on their door. If lemon buyback cars, trucks, and SUVs are not properly disclosed and sold “as is,” the buyer may still have rights under the used car lemon law in California.

Dealers who purposely set out to mislead buyers by failing to identify buybacks as “lemons” are breaking the law and risk legal action.  The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) licenses and regulates new and used vehicle dealers. If you or a family member wants to report a dispute with a car dealer, contact the Division of Investigations (DMV).

What If a Vehicle Dealership Has Gone Out of Business?

Has the dealership where you purchased your vehicle gone out of business and failed to honor the terms of your warranty or contract? The California Consumer Motor Vehicle Recovery Corporation (CMVRC) has a Consumer Recovery Fund to help buyers when a licensed dealer goes out of business or files for bankruptcy. You may be entitled to reimbursement for any economic losses caused by the dealer’s bankruptcy or closure if the CMVRC approves your claim.

Contact an Experienced California Used Car Lemon Law Attorney

While the concept of the California lemon law for used cars may initially appear straightforward, delving into its intricacies can be complex. Neale & Fhima lemon law attorney in California, stands firmly by your side. We will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the justice you deserve from the dealership that sold you a defective vehicle.

To maximize your chances of success in pursuing a lemon lawsuit, the California Department of Justice recommends seeking the assistance of a lawyer. Manufacturers often aggressively contest lemon law claims, making it crucial to have Neale & Fhima as your staunch advocate, fighting tenaciously on your behalf.

Contact Neale & Fhima used car lemon law lawyers today at 888-407-2955 to understand your rights and get the compensation you deserve.

FAQs

Do I need to notify the manufacturer about the defect in my used car?

Before pursuing a lemon law claim in California, you must provide written notice of the defect to the manufacturer or its authorized dealer. This notice should be sent by certified mail and include a request to repair the defect.

Can I receive a refund or replacement for my defective, used car under California’s lemon law?

If your used car meets the lemon law criteria, you may be eligible for a refund or a replacement vehicle. The manufacturer can either repurchase and refund your money or provide a comparable replacement vehicle.

What are the criteria for a used car to be considered a lemon in California?

The vehicle must meet certain criteria to be considered a lemon under California law. These include having a defect covered by the manufacturer’s warranty that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety, and the manufacturer or its authorized dealers must have been given a reasonable number of repair attempts to fix the defect.

How many repair attempts are considered “reasonable” under California lemon laws?

Under California lemon laws, the manufacturer or its authorized dealers must be given a reasonable number of repair attempts to fix the defect. Typically, the law considers four or more repair attempts or the vehicle being out of service for more than 30 days within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles (whichever comes first) as a reasonable number of attempts.

Can I file a lemon law claim if I purchased a used car “as-is”?

The lemon law in California can still apply to used cars sold “as-is” under certain circumstances. If a manufacturer’s warranty covers the vehicle at the time of purchase, and the defect meets the lemon law requirements, you may be eligible for relief.

Attorney Aaron Fhima

Aaron Fhima, California attorneyAaron Fhima is a trial attorney who has secured numerous settlements and verdicts against large corporations and some of the largest auto manufacturers in the world. Representing consumers and injury victims throughout the state of California, Aaron’s practice areas include personal injury, and lemon law litigation. Aaron has a long record of success taking on large defense firms; and he doesn’t hesitate to take cases to trial when necessary to enforce his clients’ rights. [ Attorney Bio ]