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Guidebook chapter

Know Your California Lemon Law Rights

Song-Beverly basics, warranty timing, and what substantial impairment means in plain English.

Chapter 01 of 068 min read

What actually matters for a case

Section 1

What we care about is whether the defect first occurred during the original manufacturer warranty. Manufacturers sometimes push an 18-month / 18,000-mile story online. That window is not required to have a case, and it does not decide whether you have a good case.

Repair history and days in the shop help show the manufacturer has not cured the problem.

Substantial impairment in real life

Section 2

Courts and manufacturers look at whether the defect affects how you use the car, what it is worth, or whether it is safe. Chronic stalling, brake issues, and repeat powertrain failures usually qualify. Minor rattles alone often do not.

Keep a simple log: date, mileage, symptom, and how it affected your commute or family plans.

Who pays the attorney

Section 3

Manufacturers always pay our attorney fees, or the representation is free. Clients of CLINE APC do not pay any fees, ever.

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