What is covered?

The Lemon Law applies to any vehicle with a warranty. The Lemon Law even applies to used vehicles that come with a warranty from the Dealer.

Most often we are talking about automobiles, but manufacturers also warrant boats, motorcycles, jet skis, RVs, even yachts. Any item that comes with a warranty. What is a warranty? A warranty is a promise to make something work properly, to maintain its usefulness or performance for a period of time. Warranties take many forms. The warranty on a new car is the initial bumper to bumper coverage.

Used cars with a warranty fall under the protection of the lemon law. The warranty can be the remainder of the factory warranty from the manufacturer, from the dealer, or in certain cases from a service contract purchased with the car at the time of sale. It is required by State and Federal law that every used car offered for sale have a "Buyers Guide" in the window.

This guide tells you whether the car comes with a warranty, and what the terms of that warranty are. Typical is 30 days and 1,000 miles, though they vary. Sometimes the Dealer is only obligated for 1/2 of the cost of repairs. "As is" really does mean "as is," and if the car is sold "as is," the Dealer is probably telling you something. For a more detailed discussion of used cars and their warranties, please see the Used Car Fraud page.

Protect Your Rights

The lemon law requirements are very technical, and the assistance of a lawyer is important to protect your rights.

San Diego Lemon Law Center | The Law Office of Michael E. Lindsey
Tel: (858) 270-7000 Fax: (858) 270-7710 | 4455 Morena Blvd., Ste. 207 San Diego, CA, 92117 (see map)

General Information Only

The information in the San Diego Lemon Law Center pages is for general information only and is not intended to be taken as legal advice. If you have a specific legal question or problem, please feel free to contact us or you should promptly consult with an Attorney handling such matters in your area for advice.