Burney Lemon Law Attorneys

When you purchase a vehicle, you expect it to be reliable, safe, and free from major defects. Unfortunately, many consumers in Burney and across California end up with vehicles that have recurring mechanical issues, making them unsafe or unusable. If this has happened to you, California’s Lemon Law may provide legal remedies, including a refund, replacement vehicle, or financial compensation.

Most recent reports show that the number of Lemon Law cases in California courts increased to more than 22,000 in 2023, highlighting how common these disputes have become. With thousands of consumers facing manufacturer pushback, working with a skilled Burney Lemon Law attorney can help you secure the resolution you deserve.

At Wirtz Law, we focus on helping auto consumers enforce their rights under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, commonly known as the California Lemon Law. Our experienced trial attorneys have recovered over $70 Million for clients who purchased defective vehicles, and we provide aggressive representation against automakers who fail to honor their warranties. If your vehicle qualifies under the Lemon Law, you may be entitled to significant compensation at no out-of-pocket cost.

Comprehensive Protection For Buyers of Automobiles Throughout Burney

The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act in California protects people who unfortunately purchase defective automobiles. The warranty law affects both new and certified pre-owned cars. When dealerships and manufacturers cannot fix important vehicle defects after reasonable repair efforts, you could receive either a refund or a replacement vehicle.

The California Lemon Law applies to vehicles which exhibit a problem or multiple problems that impair their functionality or reduce their market value or compromise safety features.

A vehicle qualifies for the California Lemon Law if:

• The vehicle has a substantial malfunction that impairs the use, value to you, or unsafe.
• The vehicle had two or more repair visits to address one or more of these defects.
• Or, the vehicle was out of service for more than thirty days of repair time.

If your vehicle meets these criteria then you should consider filing a successful lemon law claim. Manufacturer companies regularly reject legitimate claims thus making Wirtz Law your best choice to evaluate your vehicle-specific situation.

Common Vehicle Defects That Qualify Under the Lemon Law

A vehicle qualifies as a lemon when it continues to experience persistent mechanical problems that reduce its operational capabilities or compromise driver safety or impact the vehicle’s use to you. While a few common defects in cars lead to minor inconveniences, any defects create safety issues that might cause accidents or unnecessary breakdowns. When you cannot resolve the problems with your vehicle through multiple repair attempts, you may receive a buyback or a replacement vehicle.

Engine and Transmission Failures

Engine and transmission failures rank high among the most prevalent problems people report. Various symptoms emerge from these problems, including engine stalling, transmission rough shifts, power reduction, and engine overheating problems. Many people report excessive engine oil consumption, which accelerates engine deterioration. The vehicle would qualify as a lemon if the dealership cannot provide permanent solutions to these problems.

Steering and Braking Defects

Steering and braking problems result in dangerous operating conditions. When vehicles exhibit brake failure combined with non-responsive power steering and unstable stability control systems, they create extreme driving dangers. The vehicle may meet Lemon Law standards if it has multiple repair attempts for its tendency to deviate from the road path, its hard-to-stop condition, and grinding or squealing brakes.

Recurring Check Engine Lights

The performance of contemporary vehicles depends on onboard computer systems, which both monitor operational status and recognize mechanical system problems. The check engine light continuing to illuminate after multiple service visits usually indicates a fundamental problem exists in the vehicle. These warnings stem primarily from fuel system malfunctions and emission control system problems as well as faulty sensors. The Lemon Law applies to defects when dealerships cannot diagnose or fix the issue following multiple attempts at repair.

Defective Seatbelts and Airbags

All safety systems that include airbags, seatbelts, and crash detection must operate correctly at all times. Airbags failing to activate, or seatbelt malfunctions, or automatic braking systems delivering false reactions can create dangerous conditions for drivers and their passengers. Vehicles with unattended safety problems are covered by California’s Lemon Law because these problems endanger vehicle safety.

Electrical System Malfunctions

Multiple essential vehicle features rely on the electrical system to function, including infotainment systems, power window operation navigation systems, and warning sensors. Electrical system problems that include wiring malfunctions, unresponsive touchscreens, and persistent battery drains make vehicles difficult to use and can also impair safety. Infotainment system failures are becoming more frequent California Lemon Law complaints in the newer vehicles equipped with sophisticated technology.

A valid Burney lemon law claim exists when manufacturers or dealers cannot permanently fix these defects even after multiple repair attempts. Documentation of all service interactions, repair orders, and dealer communications should be preserved since it will help your attorney enhance your case presentation.

Top 5 California Auto Complaints 

Some vehicle brands and models are more likely to be the subject of Lemon Law claims compared to others. In 2023, the Bureau of Automotive Repair reported that the top five allegations in auto-related complaints included:

• Auto body negligence (293 claims)
• False & misleading statements (164 claims)
• Damages caused by manufacturer defects (162 claims)
• Contractual disputes (145 claims)
• Fraud allegations (97 claims)

Top 5 Car Brands with the Most Lemon Law Claims in California

Additionally, manufacturers with frequent Lemon Law claims include the following:

• General Motors (GM). GM vehicles account for one Lemon Law lawsuit for every 78 vehicles sold in California.
• Jaguar Land Rover. Reports indicate 1 lawsuit for every 83 vehicles sold in the state.
• Ford. Models like the Ford Explorer and F-150 are frequently criticized for transmission failures, engine issues, and electrical malfunctions.
• Chevrolet. SUVs such as the Chevy Equinox and Chevy Traverse are often involved in excessive oil consumption, overheating, and powertrain issues.
• Jeep. Electrical failures, engine defects, and sudden stalling problems have made Jeep Wranglers and Jeep Cherokees some of the most common subjects of Lemon Law cases.

Other manufacturers, such as Tesla, Nissan, and Hyundai, continue to face increasing lemon law claims due to battery malfunctions, software failures, and braking system defects. Consumers purchasing vehicles with advanced technology, as seen in hybrids or electric vehicles, have reported higher-than-average repair issues.

If your vehicle brand has been involved in frequent recalls and has ongoing repair issues, it may strengthen your case under the California Lemon Law. Keeping detailed records of all repair attempts, dealership visits, and warranty claims is essential when pursuing legal action against the manufacturer.

4 Critical Steps To Take If You Suspect Your Car Is a Lemon

If you believe your vehicle qualifies under California Lemon Law, follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Document All Repairs

Keep records of every repair attempt, including invoices, work orders, and dealer statements. As in any claim, the California Lemon Law requires proof of multiple failed repair attempts before a claim can move forward.

2. Review the Manufacturer’s Warranty

Check whether your new vehicle warranty is still active. The California Lemon Law applies only to cars covered by an original manufacturer’s warranty at the time of the defect.

3. Notify the Manufacturer

Beginning on July 1, 2025, to recover civil penalties against the manufacturers must be given written notice of your claim.  Civil penalties are additional damages up to two times the amount of your actual California Lemon Law damages.

4. Consult a Burney Lemon Law Attorney

Filing a Lemon Law claim without legal representation can be challenging. Automakers often deny valid claims or offer low settlements. An experienced, top-rated Burney Lemon Law attorney can help maximize your compensation and ensure you receive the outcome you deserve.

Solutions Available Under the California Lemon Law

If your vehicle meets the criteria for a refund or replacement, you may be entitled to several remedies under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act. The law provides strong protections for consumers, ensuring that automakers are held accountable when they fail to deliver a reliable vehicle. The remedies available depend on the specifics of your case, but most successful Lemon Law claims result in one of the following outcomes:

A Full Refund

If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, the manufacturer is required to buy back the defective car. This refund typically includes:

• The original purchase price of the vehicle;
• Sales tax, registration fees, and other government charges; and
• Additional costs related to the defect, such as repair expenses and loan interest payments.

The manufacturer may deduct a usage fee based on the mileage driven before the first repair attempt. However, a skilled Lemon Law attorney can often minimize this deduction to ensure you receive the highest possible refund.

A Replacement Vehicle

Instead of a refund, you may have the option to receive an equivalent replacement vehicle. If you choose this option, the manufacturer must provide a new, defect-free car at no additional cost. The replacement must include all features and upgrades that were part of the original purchase.

Reimbursement for Incidental Expenses

Lemon Law protections extend beyond the cost of the vehicle itself. If you incurred additional expenses due to the defective car, you may be eligible for compensation, including:

• Towing fees if the car broke down
• Rental car costs while your vehicle was in the shop
• Repair costs for issues that should have been covered under warranty

Coverage of Legal Fees

One of the biggest advantages of California’s Lemon Law is that automakers must pay your attorney’s fees if you win your case. You can pursue a Lemon Law claim without worrying about out-of-pocket legal costs.

Historically, California law favored consumers. However, with the recent changes, it is crucial that you work with a qualified Lemon Law attorney who knows how to fight back against manufacturers that try to minimize payouts.

Frequently Asked Questions About the California Lemon Law

Lemon Law claims can be confusing, especially when dealing with a manufacturer that refuses to cooperate. Below are answers to three common questions not addressed earlier in this guide.

1. What If My Car’s Problems Started After the Warranty Expired?

If your vehicle’s issues first appeared while it was still under warranty, you may still be able to pursue a Lemon Law claim, even if the warranty has since expired. The key factor is whether the defect was reported and documented before the warranty ended. Keeping detailed records of repair attempts can help strengthen your case and prove that the issue existed while the warranty was active.

2. Can I Still File a Lemon Law Claim If the Dealership Says My Car Is Fixed?

You may still qualify for a Lemon Law claim even if the dealership insists the problem has been resolved or has failed to duplicate the issue. The key factor is whether the issue continues to occur despite multiple repair attempts. Many dealerships return vehicles to customers, claiming the problem has been fixed, only for the issue to reappear days or weeks later. If your car continues to experience recurring mechanical or safety-related defects, and you have documented repair visits, you can still pursue legal action against the manufacturer.

Do You Own a Defective Vehicle? Contact Our Burney Lemon Law Attorneys Today

If you’re stuck with a vehicle that has persistent mechanical issues, you don’t have to accept the frustration and financial loss. California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers in Burney and throughout the state, giving you the right to demand a refund, replacement, or compensation if your car qualifies as a lemon. At Wirtz Law, we know how automakers try to delay, deny, or minimize claims, and we won’t let them take advantage of you. Our trial attorneys have recovered over $70 Million for auto consumers just like you, and we’re ready to help you fight back. Don’t wait—Lemon Law claims are time-sensitive.

We proudly serve Burney, Johnson Park, Hillcrest, Montgomery Creek, Round Mountain, Bella Vista, and Redding. Not only do we bring years of experience serving our Northern California counties, but we also serve Southern and Central California. Contact the team at Wirtz Law today to schedule a consultation with a Burney Lemon Law attorney. We will analyze your unique situation and help build the grounds for taking your first step towards pursuing a lemon law claim.