1. Do Research
If you’re currently shopping for a vehicle, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website to see if there are recalls, technical service bulletins (manufacturer communication), or complaints for the new or used car of your choice.
2. Get Repair Work and Estimates in Writing
You are entitled to a repair order or invoice every time you take your auto into the dealership or pick it up from the dealership. Ask for an invoice, even if they don’t actually repair your vehicle. Do not allow them to leave your ticket “open” while a part is being ordered – get a separate invoice for each visit, since every one of your visits counts as a “reasonable attempt to repair” and must be documented. (This is very important.)
3. Verify the Details
Make sure that what the service representative types onto your service order is a complete and accurate description of your vehicle’s problem. If it is not, ask them to clarify or further explain before they print out the work order.
4. Keep Everything
Store all records of service repairs and visits in a safe place that is NOT in your car. These papers can often get mysteriously “lost” at auto repair and service shops.
5. Document Your Calls & Visits
Write down the name and title of the person you spoke to and the content of the conversation and date after each and every phone call or conversation with someone from the dealer or manufacturer
6. Don’t Settle for Less
You don’t have to go it alone! Before you accept a manufacturer’s settlement, consult a California Lemon Law attorney to determine if what you’re being offered is fair.
7. Don’t Overly Educate Yourself
Doing research on the Lemon Law and other pertinent information can help you learn more about your options, but make sure you don’t talk yourself out of a case. Instead, ask a qualified lawyer for a free consultation to see if your case is valid.
8. Don’t Arbitrate
Contrary to what a dealer or manufacturer may tell you, you do not have to submit to arbitration with a third-party before filing a Lemon Law case with a lawyer.
9. Keep Your Options Open
Even if you’ve already gone through arbitration, you still may be able to pursue your rights with a lawyer.
10. Contact a Lawyer Right Away
If your vehicle has been in the shop repeatedly for a problem or problems, call an experienced California Lemon Law attorney as soon as possible so that evidence and witness recollections are still fresh.
Particularly in California, where your vehicle is your lifeline, trouble with a lemon can dramatically affect your day-to-day productivity and your quality of life. If you’re having trouble with a vehicle and aren’t sure what to do, call the Gayle Law Group, PC for a FREE CONSULTATION . Remember, by law, the manufacturer is responsible for paying the legal fees of the Lemon Law cases that we resolve for you. Call TOLL FREE:
1-866-STOP-LEMONS (1-866-786-7536).