Is Your Ford a Lemon? Know Your Rights Under California Lemon Law
Buying a new or used Ford should be an exciting experience, but frustration quickly sets in when your vehicle turns out to have persistent mechanical issues. Fortunately, California Lemon Law protects consumers from being stuck with a defective vehicle. If your Ford in California has ongoing issues that the manufacturer cannot fix, you may be entitled to a refund, replacement, or cash compensation.
At Gayle Law Group PC, our Lemon Law attorneys specialize in helping consumers fight back against manufacturers who refuse to take responsibility for defective vehicles. This guide explains how California Lemon Law works, whether your Ford qualifies, and how to file a Lemon Law claim with the help of an experienced California Lemon Law attorney.
What Is the Lemon Law for Ford in California?
The California Lemon Law, part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, requires manufacturers to repair or replace vehicles that have substantial defects affecting their use, value, or safety.
If a manufacturer fails to fix your Ford after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may qualify for one of the following:
- A full refund or buyback (with a mileage deduction)
- A replacement vehicle
- Cash compensation for repair costs and diminished value
Whether your Ford has persistent engine problems, transmission failure, electrical issues, or brake defects, California Lemon Law ensures you do not have to suffer financial loss due to a manufacturer’s negligence.
How Do I Know If I Qualify for a Lemon Law Claim in California?
You may qualify for a Lemon Law claim if your Ford in California meets these conditions:
- Substantial defect: The issue must significantly impact the vehicle’s safety, use, or value.
- Multiple repair attempts: The manufacturer or dealership has tried to fix the issue multiple times without success.
- Warranty coverage: The problem started while the vehicle was still under the original manufacturer’s warranty.
- Excessive downtime: Your Ford has been in the shop for repairs for more than 30 days.
If your dealership has attempted to fix the problem, but the defect keeps coming back, your Ford may qualify as a lemon under California Lemon Law.
Which Vehicles Are Covered by California Lemon Law?
California Lemon Law covers the following:
- New and used vehicles that come with a manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty
- Leased vehicles, including those used for personal or family purposes
- Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, if they are still under the manufacturer’s warranty
- Business vehicles (if the business owns no more than five vehicles registered in California)
If your Ford in California is experiencing repeated defects and remains under warranty, you may have a valid Lemon Law claim.
How Do I Start a Lemon Law Claim in California?
If you believe your Ford qualifies as a lemon, follow these steps to file a Lemon Law claim:
Step 1: Gather Your Repair Records
- Collect all repair invoices, work orders, and dealership service records.
- Request a written diagnosis of the problem from the dealership.
Step 2: Track Your Vehicle’s Performance
- Keep a record of all mechanical issues, warning lights, or breakdowns.
- Document how the defect affects your vehicle’s safety and performance.
Step 3: Notify the Manufacturer
- Send a formal complaint to Ford, explaining the issue.
- Request further repairs or a resolution under California Lemon Law.
Step 4: Contact a California Lemon Law Attorney
- A Lemon Law attorney can assess your case and handle negotiations with the manufacturer.
- Manufacturers often deny claims or delay responses, but an experienced attorney can protect your rights.
If the manufacturer refuses to comply, your attorney can file a lawsuit to seek compensation under California Lemon Law.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Lemon Law Claim in California?
While you can file a Lemon Law claim on your own, manufacturers often fight Lemon Law cases aggressively. Having a California Lemon Law attorney on your side increases your chances of winning compensation.
A Lemon Law attorney can:
- Evaluate your case and determine if your Ford qualifies as a lemon.
- Handle all legal paperwork and negotiations with the manufacturer.
- Fight against manufacturer tactics that aim to delay or deny your claim.
- Represent you in court if the case requires legal action.
The best part? California Lemon Law requires manufacturers to pay your attorney fees, meaning you won’t have to worry about legal costs.
Does California Lemon Law Apply to Leased Vehicles?
Yes, California Lemon Law applies to leased vehicles, just like purchased ones. If your leased Ford in California has repeated defects and the manufacturer cannot fix them, you may be entitled to a refund, replacement, or compensation.
How Does the Lemon Law Work for Cars in California?
If a vehicle qualifies as a lemon, the manufacturer must:
- Replace the defective vehicle with a new, similar model.
- Refund the full purchase price, including taxes, registration, and finance charges (minus a mileage deduction).
- Offer a cash settlement to compensate for the vehicle’s diminished value.
California Lemon Law ensures that consumers are not stuck with defective vehicles while holding manufacturers accountable for selling faulty cars.
How to File a Lemon Law Claim in California
Filing a Lemon Law claim involves:
- Consulting a California Lemon Law Attorney - An attorney will assess your case, review repair records, and determine eligibility.
- Submitting a Demand Letter – Your attorney will formally request Ford a refund, replacement, or cash settlement.
- Negotiating with the Manufacturer – Your lawyer will handle negotiations and fight for the best possible outcome.
- Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary – Your attorney will file a Lemon Law lawsuit if Ford refuses to comply.
Most Lemon Law cases settle before going to trial, meaning you could receive compensation without stepping into a courtroom.
How Gayle Law Group PC Can Help You Win Your Lemon Law Claim
At Gayle Law Group PC, we have extensive experience handling California Lemon Law claims for Ford and other vehicle brands. We can help you:
- Assess your eligibility under California Lemon Law.
- Handle all legal negotiations with the manufacturer.
- Secure the best outcome, whether a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement.
If your Ford in California has ongoing mechanical problems, don’t let the manufacturer avoid responsibility.
Get a Free Consultation with a California Lemon Law Attorney
If your Ford has been in the repair shop multiple times for the same issue, it may qualify as a lemon under California law.
You don’t have to fight alone. The experienced Lemon Law attorneys at Gayle Law Group PC are ready to help you get the refund, replacement, or compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward winning your Lemon Law claim.