Automotive News – Page 2 – California Lemon Law blog

BMW and Toyota have announced a voluntary safety recall affecting certain 2019–2022 BMW models and 2020–2022 Toyota Supra vehicles due to a potential fire risk involving the engine starter relay. The issue arises when water makes contact with the relay, which over time may corrode and compromise the electrical connection. While corrosion can make it difficult or impossible to start the engine, in more severe cases it can cause the relay to short-circuit and overheat. This overheating poses a significant fire hazard, as a thermal event could occur not only while the vehicle is being driven but also when it is parked with the ignition off.

BMW launched an engineering investigation in July 2024 after reports of thermal events in certain vehicles. Over the following year, engineers analyzed field cases, conducted parts tear-downs, and tested water ingress scenarios in an attempt to replicate the failure. Although no single cause was definitively confirmed, BMW identified production periods that may be at risk. On September 16, 2025, the automaker initiated a recall. Toyota conducted its own review of records and confirmed no U.S. reports of Supra incidents to date, but vehicles remain included in the recall as a precaution.

Owners of affected vehicles are strongly advised to park outdoors and away from buildings until repairs are complete. Dealers will address the issue by replacing the engine starter at no cost to customers. Interim recall notices will begin mailing on November 14, 2025, with a follow-up notice sent once replacement parts are available. The recall is listed under NHTSA Campaign Number 25V-636.

Affected Vehicles Include:

2019–2021 BMW 330i
2021–2022 BMW 430i
2021–2022 BMW 430i Convertible
2020–2022 BMW 530i
2020–2022 BMW X3
2020–2022 BMW X4
2019–2022 BMW Z4

If you own one of these vehicles, stay alert for recall notifications, and in the meantime, take the precaution of parking your vehicle outside until the remedy is performed.

If you drive a 2020 or 2021 Ford Super Duty F-250, F-350, or F-450, there’s a new recall you should know about. Ford has confirmed a steering defect that could cause you to suddenly lose control of your truck while driving.

And here’s the bigger issue: these trucks already have a long history of recalls. If your Super Duty keeps going back to the dealership for repairs, it may be more than just bad luck — your truck could be a lemon.

What’s the Problem?

The recall centers on the steering column upper shaft. In certain trucks, the part doesn’t meet Ford’s own strength requirements. That means it can actually separate while driving, causing you to lose the ability to steer.

Safety Risk: Loss of steering control makes a crash much more likely.
No Warning Signs: There are no dashboard messages or alerts — the failure can happen without warning.
Affected Trucks: Ford believes the defect affects trucks built at the Kentucky Truck Plant before October 1, 2020.

How Ford is Handling the Recall

Ford has issued recall number 25S94 (NHTSA 25V-626). Here’s what they’re telling owners:

Notices in the Mail: Letters started going out in October 2025 to warn owners.
Dealer Inspections: Dealers will check your steering column.
- If it fails inspection → the part will be replaced.
- If it passes → it will be modified to improve durability.
Final Fix: A long-term repair solution is expected by December 2025.

Ford Super Duty: Too Many Recalls?

Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time Super Duty owners have faced recalls. The 2020–2021 lineup has been hit with recalls for:

Driveshaft separations
Brake system problems
Electrical issues

When you add the steering shaft defect to the list, it paints a troubling picture. For owners, these repeated issues can mean frustration, downtime, and serious safety worries.

Could Your Truck Be a Lemon?

Here’s the bottom line: If you’ve had to bring your F-250, F-350, or F-450 back to the dealer again and again for serious repairs, you may not just have a bad truck — you may have a lemon.

Lemon Law Basics: If a defect affects your truck’s safety, value, or reliability, and the manufacturer can’t fix it after a reasonable number of tries, you may qualify for a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement.
Why Steering Defects Matter: Because steering is critical to safe driving, repeated failures or incomplete fixes could make your case even stronger.

What Should You Do Now?

Keep Records: Save every repair order, recall notice, and warranty claim. Documentation is key if you ever need to pursue a claim.
Pay Attention to Repeat Repairs: If you’ve had the same issue fixed more than once, or your truck keeps going back to the dealer, you may have lemon law rights.
Get Help if Needed: Don’t wait until you’re out of patience (or warranty). Talk to a lemon law professional if you suspect your Super Duty qualifies.

FAQ: Ford Super Duty Steering Recall & Lemon Law

Q: Is it safe to drive my truck before the repair?
A: Because there are no warning signs before the steering defect happens, it’s risky to keep driving an affected truck. Schedule a dealer inspection as soon as possible.

Q: What if the dealer already repaired my steering issue once, but the problem came back?
A: If the same issue keeps happening after repairs, that’s a red flag. Repeated failures may qualify your truck as a lemon under state or federal law.

Q: How many repairs does it take before my Ford is considered a lemon?
A: It depends on your state. In many states, two or more failed repair attempts for a serious safety issue (like steering) may be enough. In others, it may take three or four attempts.

Q: Can I get a buyback or replacement if my truck is a lemon?
A: Yes. Lemon laws can entitle you to a buyback of your vehicle or a replacement truck, if the manufacturer can’t fix the defect after a reasonable number of tries.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to file a lemon law claim?
A: While not required, most lemon law cases are easier with legal help. Many lemon law attorneys work on a no-cost-to-you basis, since the law requires the manufacturer to pay legal fees if you win.

Final Thoughts

The 2020–2021 Ford Super Duty trucks are built to tackle tough jobs, but repeated recalls and a dangerous steering defect have many owners concerned. If your F-250, F-350, or F-450 is spending more time in the shop than on the road, don’t ignore it. Your truck may qualify as a lemon, and knowing your rights could help you get the compensation or replacement you deserve.

The Mercedes-AMG GT is marketed as a high-performance sports car with cutting-edge engineering and luxury styling. Unfortunately, even top-tier vehicles can come with serious defects. Recently, several AMG GT models have faced an unusually high number of recalls, raising concerns for California consumers who purchased or leased these cars.

If your AMG GT is spending more time in the shop than on the road, you may be protected under the California Lemon Law.

Mercedes-AMG GT Models with High Recalls

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the following 2021 AMG GT models have been subject to an unusually high number of recalls:

2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT-Class 2-Door RWD
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT-Class Roadster C RWD
2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT-Class 4-Door 4WD

These recalls have involved safety issues ranging from electrical system defects to braking problems, suspension concerns, and more.

Common Problems with the Mercedes Benz AMG GT

Owners of AMG GT models have reported recurring issues, including:

Electrical malfunctions (dashboard warning lights, infotainment glitches, or wiring defects)
Engine and fuel system issues (stalling, fuel leaks, or loss of power under acceleration)
Brake system failures (unexpected warning messages, premature brake wear, or reduced braking performance)
Suspension and steering defects (noises, rough handling, or loss of stability at high speeds)
Transmission problems (jerking, slipping, or hesitation during gear shifts)

When these problems repeat despite multiple dealer repair attempts, California law may recognize your AMG GT as a lemon.

How the California Lemon Law Protects AMG GT Owners

California has one of the nation’s strongest lemon laws. If your Mercedes-AMG GT has defects that substantially affect its use, value, or safety—and the manufacturer cannot repair them—you may be entitled to:

A buyback/refund of your purchase or lease
A replacement vehicle of equal value
Payment of your attorney’s fees and costs by the manufacturer

This means pursuing a lemon law claim carries little to no financial risk for California drivers.

Signs Your Mercedes-AMG GT Might Be a Lemon

You may have a valid lemon law claim if your AMG GT has:

Been repaired two or more times for a serious safety issue
Required four or more repair attempts for the same recurring problem
Spent 30 or more days out of service for warranty-related repairs

What to Do if Your AMG GT Has Recurring Problems

If your AMG GT is experiencing repeated defects, don’t ignore the issue. California Lemon Law exists to protect you from being stuck with a defective luxury sports car.

👉 Contact our California Lemon Law attorneys today for a free case evaluation. We’ll determine whether your AMG GT qualifies as a lemon and help you pursue compensation or a replacement vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Mercedes-AMG GT and Lemon Law

Q: Does the Lemon Law apply to leased AMG GT models?
Yes. Whether you leased or purchased your AMG GT, the California Lemon Law may apply if your vehicle has recurring issues.

Q: How many recalls does the 2021 AMG GT have?
The 2021 AMG GT models, including the Roadster and 4-Door, have been subject to multiple recalls, particularly related to safety systems. If you’ve had recall-related repairs that didn’t solve the problem, your vehicle may still qualify as a lemon.

Q: What problems qualify my AMG GT for Lemon Law protection?
Issues that affect safety, use, or value may qualify—such as electrical failures, engine stalling, brake defects, or suspension issues.

Q: Will a Lemon Law claim cost me money?
No. Under California law, the manufacturer pays your legal fees if your case is successful.

Q: What can I get through a Lemon Law claim?
You may be entitled to a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash settlement, depending on your case.

👉 If you own or lease a 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT and believe it may be a lemon, don’t wait. California law is on your side, and you don’t have to fight the manufacturer alone.

Mercedes-Benz has long been known for luxury and performance, but even premium vehicles can have serious defects. In recent years, several Mercedes-Benz GL class vehicles such as the, GLE, GLS, GLC, and GLB models have appeared on the NHTSA recall list repeatedly, raising concerns for California drivers who rely on these SUVs for safety and reliability.

If you own or lease a Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV that spends more time at the dealership than on the road, you may be wondering whether you have a lemon law claim.

Mercedes-Benz GL Class Vehicles with Recalls

The following models are among the most recalled in recent years according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV (RWD & 4WD)
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV (4WD)
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV (RWD & 4WD)
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupe SUV (4WD)
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class SUV (RWD & 4WD)
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class SUV (FWD & 4WD)

These recalls involve safety issues ranging from electrical system failures to fuel system defects, braking problems, and more. Such problems not only reduce the value of your SUV but may also put you and your family at risk.

Common Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Issues

Owners of the GL Class SUVs have reported problems such as:

Electrical malfunctions (infotainment freezes, sensor failures, warning lights that won’t clear)
Transmission issues (jerking, hesitation, or slipping gears)
Brake system defects (premature wear, warning messages, or loss of braking assist)
Suspension and steering problems (unusual noises, rough rides, or loss of handling)
Fuel system concerns (potential leaks or stalling)

When these issues repeat, even after multiple repair attempts, they may qualify your vehicle as a lemon under California law.

How the California Lemon Law Protects You

California has one of the strongest Lemon Laws in the country. If your Mercedes-Benz GL or GLE has recurring problems that substantially impair its use, value, or safety—and the dealership cannot fix them after a reasonable number of attempts—you may be entitled to:

A full refund of your purchase or lease price
A replacement vehicle of equal value
Coverage of attorney’s fees and costs (manufacturers pay these, not you)

This means pursuing a lemon law claim carries little to no financial risk for California consumers.

Do You Think Your Mercedes-Benz GL is a Lemon?

If you’ve brought your Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, GLE, GLS, GLC, or GLB to the dealership multiple times for the same problem, don’t ignore the warning signs. California’s Lemon Law may protect you and ensure you’re not stuck with a defective SUV.

👉 Contact our California Lemon Law attorneys today for a free case review. We’ll help you determine whether your Mercedes-Benz qualifies as a lemon and fight to get you the compensation or replacement you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Mercedes-Benz GL and California Lemon Law

Q: Does the California Lemon Law apply to leased Mercedes-Benz GL vehicles?
Yes. The California Lemon Law applies to both purchased and leased vehicles, including Mercedes-Benz GLE, GLS, and GLC SUVs. If your leased vehicle has recurring problems that the dealer cannot fix, you may still qualify for a refund or replacement.

Q: How many repair attempts are required before my Mercedes-Benz GL is considered a lemon?
Generally, if the dealer has made two or more attempts to repair a serious safety issue, or four or more attempts to fix a non-safety defect, your SUV may qualify. Additionally, if your vehicle is out of service for 30 or more days, it may meet the lemon law standard.

Q: What types of problems qualify a Mercedes-Benz GL for Lemon Law protection?
Issues that affect the use, value, or safety of your SUV may qualify. Common complaints include electrical failures, transmission problems, brake defects, suspension issues, and fuel system concerns.

Q: Will pursuing a lemon law claim cost me money?
No. Under California law, if your claim is successful, the manufacturer must pay your attorney’s fees and costs. That means there is usually no out-of-pocket cost to the vehicle owner.

Q: Can I get a replacement vehicle instead of a refund?
Yes. Many Mercedes-Benz owners choose a replacement vehicle of equal value, while others prefer a full refund. California Lemon Law allows you to pursue either option.

General Motors (GM) has confirmed a serious safety defect affecting certain 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado Medium Duty trucks. This issue involves the brake pressure sensor assembly, which may allow brake fluid to leak into the electrical components of the brake pressure switch. Over time, the defect can lead to short circuits, loss of brake system function, and even under hood fires, creating a significant risk of property damage and personal injury.

What Models Are Affected?

The following Chevrolet Silverado Medium Duty trucks are included in this safety defect:

2019 Chevrolet 6500
2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 4500
2019–2021, 2023–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 5500
2019, 2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 6500

Trucks produced before 2019 use a different brake sensor design and are not affected. Certain 2024 Silverado Medium Duty models built with a brake switch wire harness that includes silicone sealant are also excluded.

Why This Is a Safety Concern

If brake fluid leaks past the diaphragm seal into the electrical portion of the brake pressure sensor:

The switch and fuse can short circuit.
The circuit may generate excessive heat, leading to a fire risk.
A fire can occur even when the vehicle is parked and unattended.

This is not only a performance issue but a direct safety hazard for owners and the public.

Chronology of Events Leading to the Defect Finding

The journey to identifying this defect spans several years, beginning with earlier issues and continuing into 2025:

April 13, 2023 – GM issued NHTSA Recall 23V-266 addressing zinc sealant fragmentation in brake pressure sensors that could cause brake fluid leaks and under hood fires.
October 11, 2024 – GM’s quality team received a report of unintended brake pump activation in a 2023 Silverado Medium Duty truck that was not part of the earlier recall. The issue was escalated through the Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program.
November 24, 2024 – GM opened a formal investigation after discovering brake fluid in the wiring harness of the newer sensor design.
December 18, 2024 – Another field report surfaced involving a 2021 Silverado truck already repaired under the 23V-266 campaign. GM’s analysis confirmed fluid intrusion.
January 2025 – Additional warranty-returned parts tested positive for brake fluid contamination in the harness.
March 3, 2025 – GM and International Motors partnered with Akron Rubber Development Lab (ARDL) for material analysis.
April 24, 2025 – Testing revealed that the rubber diaphragm was degrading due to the supplier’s use of an unauthorized chemical that reacted with brake fluid.
April 30, 2025 – GM identified one confirmed fire among 160 reports and began deeper field analysis.
May 28, 2025 – GM inspected the affected vehicle and concluded the fire was linked to the defect.
June 5, 2025 – GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) determined a safety defect existed in 2019–2024 Silverado Medium Duty trucks.

The Cause of the Safety Defect

Investigations revealed that a supplier used an unauthorized chemical in the rubber diaphragm of the brake pressure sensor assembly. This material degraded when exposed to brake fluid, allowing leaks into the sensor’s electrical system and creating the potential for fires.

Warning Signs Owners May See

Drivers may notice a “Service Brake System” warning light on the dashboard as the defect develops. GM advises that vehicles should be parked outdoors and away from buildings until the problem is corrected.

The Fix for Silverado Owners

GM’s remedy involves replacing the brake pressure switch wire harness with an improved design.

Interim owner notifications were mailed on July 29, 2025.
A second notification will be sent once parts are fully available.
Vehicles that were previously repaired under Recall 23V-266 will also require the updated repair.

GM has assigned this campaign number N242482680, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-390.

If you drive a 2021 Audi A6, A7, A8, Q7, or Q8 — including performance models like the S6, RS7, or SQ8 — there’s a recall that could affect your vehicle’s instrument panel display. Audi has confirmed a software defect that may cause the digital gauge cluster to go completely blank while driving.

This isn’t just frustrating — it’s a potential safety issue. And if you’re in California, this might also be a qualifying condition under the California Lemon Law.

What’s the issue?

Audi says a software error in the instrument panel can cause the entire display to fail without warning. That includes:

Your speedometer
Warning lights
Fuel level
Navigation prompts
And other critical driving data

In a digital-only dash setup, losing your display means flying blind — and that’s a safety risk Audi is now acknowledging.

Which vehicles are affected?

2021 Audi A6, A7, A8
2021 Audi S6, S7, S8, RS6, RS7, RS8
2021 Audi Q7, Q8, SQ7, SQ8

In total, around 44,000 vehicles are involved in the recall. Audi dealerships are offering a software update to resolve the problem, and repairs are already underway.

What if this has already happened to you?

If your dash has glitched, gone dark, or needed multiple visits to the dealer for software issues, your experience might not be a one-off. Under California’s Lemon Law, you could be eligible for:

A replacement vehicle
A buyback or refund
Reimbursement for related expenses, like towing or rentals

Lemon Law doesn’t require the problem to occur dozens of times — just that the manufacturer has been given a reasonable chance to fix it, and it hasn’t been resolved.

What should you do?

If you’ve noticed display problems — even intermittently — make sure they’re documented at the dealership
Get the recall repair as soon as possible, and keep all paperwork
If the issue recurs after repair, or your vehicle has had multiple electronic issues, talk to a Lemon Law attorney

Digital dashboards are a modern convenience — but when they fail, they become a safety risk. If Audi hasn’t resolved the issue quickly and effectively, you may be entitled to more than just another software patch.

If you’re driving an Audi with repeated problems, let’s talk. You may be entitled to compensation or a replacement vehicle under California’s Lemon Law, and there’s no cost to have your case reviewed.

If you drive a Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Yukon, or Cadillac Escalade equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine (RPO L87), your vehicle may be at risk of sudden engine failure due to defective engine components. (Safety Recall N252494001 and NHTSA campaign number 25V-274)

Vehicles Affected by the Recall

Chevrolet: Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe (2021–2024)
GMC: Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL (2021–2024)
Cadillac: Escalade, Escalade ESV (2021–2024)

Over 600,000 GM vehicles are included in this recall.

The Engine Defect Explained

The recall stems from manufacturing defects in the connecting rods and crankshaft, which may include:

Sediment in connecting rods and crankshaft-oil galleries
Crankshaft dimension issues
Improper surface finishing

These defects can lead to engine failure, posing a serious safety risk.

Potential Dangers and Symptoms

According to GM, drivers may notice warning signs before total engine failure, including:

Unusual Engine Noises – Knocking, banging, or metallic sounds
Check Engine Light – Illumination of the dashboard warning light
Performance Problems:
- Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- High or unusual RPMs
- Abnormal or rough shifting
- Reduced propulsion or loss of power
- No-start condition (engine fails to start)

If the engine fails while driving, drivers may lose propulsion, significantly increasing the risk of a crash. GM has already linked the defect to 12 potential crashes and 12 reported injuries in the U.S.

The Official GM Remedy

General Motors dealers will inspect affected vehicles. Depending on results, remedies include:

Higher Viscosity Oil – Offers added protection against component wear
New Oil Fill Cap & Oil Filter Replacement
Owner’s Manual Insert – Updated guidance for owners

Is My Vehicle Safe to Drive?

While GM notes that the condition does not affect braking or cause an abrupt stop, an engine failure during operation will cause a loss of propulsion, requiring drivers to coast and maneuver to the side of the road. This can create a serious safety hazard.

Until recall repairs are complete, GM advises owners to stay alert for unusual engine noises, warning lights, and changes in performance.

California Lemon Law: Your Rights as a Consumer

If you’re a California resident and your Chevrolet, GMC, or Cadillac has been in the shop multiple times for the same issue, or if you’ve lost significant time without your vehicle, you may qualify for relief under the California Lemon Law.

Lemon law protections may entitle you to a:

Buyback (refund)
Vehicle replacement
Cash compensation

Our experienced California Lemon Law attorneys can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What to Do If Your Vehicle is Affected

Schedule a Dealer Inspection – Don’t wait until your engine fails; get ahead of the issue.
Document All Repairs and Symptoms – Keep records for potential lemon law claims.
Call for a Free Case Review – If you’ve had repeated problems, call 1-866-785-4477 for a free California Lemon Law consultation.

Final Thoughts

The 6.2L V8 engine defect in GM vehicles is a serious safety concern affecting hundreds of thousands of drivers. If you own a 2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra, Yukon, or Cadillac Escalade, don’t wait for the engine to fail — take action now to protect your safety and your rights.

✅ Free Case Review: Contact our California Lemon Law attorneys today at 1-866-785-4477 or fill out our online form at the top of the page to learn if your GM vehicle qualifies for a buyback, replacement, or compensation.

Kia’s popular SUV, the Telluride, is now under recall — again. This time, the issues are far more serious than a glitchy infotainment system or a faulty sensor. Kia has confirmed two separate safety defects that could put drivers and passengers at risk of vehicle fires or unintended rollaways.

If you’re a California driver, and especially if your Telluride is still under warranty, these problems could also qualify you for protection under the California Lemon Law.

What’s going wrong?

There are two major defects involved in this recall, both affecting 2020 through 2024 Kia Tellurides:

Fire risk: The power seat motor may overheat and catch fire. The problem is linked to the seat adjustment knob, which can become stuck and cause the motor to continue running even when it shouldn’t. This can lead to electrical overheating and a real risk of interior fires — even when the vehicle is parked.
Rollaway risk: In a separate issue, improperly assembled driveshaft components can cause the vehicle to roll away while in park, especially if the parking brake isn’t engaged. This is clearly a serious safety hazard.

What is Kia doing about it?

Kia dealerships will:

Install protective brackets around the seat switches and replace adjustment knobs where needed
Inspect and replace intermediate shafts related to the rollaway issue

Repairs are currently ongoing. Kia has not yet indicated widespread part delays, but given the scope of the recall, some wait times are possible.

What to know about California Lemon Law

California’s Lemon Law doesn’t just cover cars that have persistent engine problems — it also applies to major safety issues like these. If your Telluride has:

Been in the shop multiple times for the same defect
Been out of service for 30 or more days total
Or if the fire or rollaway problems persist after attempted repairs

You may be eligible for a buyback, replacement vehicle, or financial compensation. You also don’t have to pay legal fees — manufacturers are required to cover them if your case qualifies.

What you should do:

Review your repair history — especially any seat or drivetrain work
Contact your dealership to complete the recall repair if you haven’t already
Document everything — repair orders, communication with service staff, even photos if you’ve noticed unusual smells or damage
Reach out to a Lemon Law professional if your Telluride has been unreliable or unsafe

It doesn’t matter how new your SUV is — if it puts you or your family at risk, California law is there to protect you. If you’re tired of dealing with safety concerns or have lost trust in your Telluride, we’re here to help you understand your rights — and take the next step if your vehicle qualifies as a lemon. Call us at 888-395-3666 or fill in the free Lemon Law case review form at the top of this page.