Wirtz Law Blog

In September 2012, our client, Julio H. bought a new 2013 BMW 335i Active Hybrid “ultimate driving machine” sports sedan, his dream car and first new car after driving a used 1999 Honda Civic for thirteen years. He was excited to treat himself to a a premium luxury vehicle after obtaining his Doctorate, but was sorely disappointed.  Julio brought the 335i in for repair for a litany of problems over the following years, and each time one problem seemed repaired it either returned or a different issue popped up. The 335i had problems with jerky acceleration, rough idle, catching braked and hard stops, A/C malfunctions, oil leaks, defroster defects, clogged water plugs, corroding battery points, blown fuses, restraint system malfunctions, coolant leaks. These were just the defects on the repair orders. There were additional defects reflected by the hidden codes that only BMW technicians get to see.

After 56 days out of service during the first 50,000 miles, and 14 trips back and forth to BMW, Julio completely lost faith in the vehicle and was tired of playing whack-a-mole. In January 2017, Julio called BMW to ask for a repurchase. Despite the lengthy warranty repair history, BMW rubber stamped a rejection telling Julio that after a “thorough investigation” BMW determined the “vehicle’s service history does not present an obligation for BMW NA to require the vehicle,” and accordingly, Julio’s request was summarily rejected.

Julio hired counsel to pursue his California Lemon Law rights. In August 2019, his case went to trial in Los Angeles County Superior Court. Julio was represented by California Lemon Law trial attorneys Richard M. Wirtz and Jessica R. Underwood, of Wirtz Law APC. After nearly a two week trial, and just over two hours of deliberating, the jury returned a verdict in Julio’s favor and awarded him both his repurchase price and a civil penalty to punish BMW for its willful violation of the California Lemon Law in the total amount of $103,572.32, plus BMW was ordered to pay plaintiff’s attorney’s fees and costs.

For more information call the experienced trial attorneys at (858) 259-5009 for a free case evaluation.

Disclaimer.  The information provided in this post is for informational and educational purposes only regarding aspects of the California Lemon Law.  It is intended for California Consumers only. This post is considered an advertisement by attorney Richard M. Wirtz and Wirtz Law APC. You should not rely on any of the information provided in this advertisement and no legal advice is given by the advertisement. No attorney client relationship is established by viewing this advertisement. A written signed engagement agreement between you and Wirtz Law APC is required to create an attorney client relationship. You should immediately consult an attorney who is experienced in California Lemon Law. Attorney Richard M. Wirtz is responsible for the content of this post. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.