California Lemon Law « California Lemon Law blog

A widespread Ford recall could impact your ability to safely back up your vehicle — and it might also qualify you for relief under California’s Lemon Law.

What’s going on?

Ford is recalling over 1 million vehicles due to a software glitch that affects the rearview camera. The image might freeze, lag, or not show up at all when you’re in reverse. That’s more than just an inconvenience — it’s a real safety issue, especially in tight parking lots or near pedestrians.

Which models are included?

Ford: 2021–2025 Bronco, Escape, Edge, Expedition, F-Series, Mustang, Mach-E, Ranger, Transit
Lincoln: Nautilus, Corsair, Navigator (2021–2025)

Ford plans to notify owners starting June 16, 2025, and repairs will be done either at the dealership or possibly via an over-the-air software update — depending on your vehicle.

Why California Lemon Law applies

If your rearview camera has failed repeatedly, or if the issue has made your vehicle unsafe to drive, California law may consider your car a “lemon.” Even if it’s just one issue, if it affects safety and the dealership can’t fix it in a reasonable amount of time, you might qualify for:

A replacement vehicle
A refund
Payment for out-of-pocket expenses

The law applies whether your car was new or used, as long as it’s still under the manufacturer’s warranty.

What to do if this affects you:

Check your records — has your camera failed before?
If so, document everything and keep copies of repair orders.
Don’t wait for the dealership to tell you what your options are. A Lemon Law attorney can evaluate your case for free, and most clients never pay out of pocket.

You deserve a vehicle that works the way it’s supposed to — especially when safety is involved.

If you’re concerned about your Ford or Lincoln defects or have questions about your rights under the California Lemon Law, Call Now for a FREE Case Review – 888-395-3666 or fill in the contact form at the top of the page. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – take action today to protect your rights as a California consumer!

If you drive a Chevy Silverado or Tahoe, a GMC Yukon, or a Cadillac Escalade, you may have already heard some rumblings about a major recall involving General Motors’ 6.2L V8 engine. The problem is serious — and if you’re in California, it could also mean you have rights under the California Lemon Law.

What’s the issue?

GM is recalling over 600,000 vehicles from model years 2021 through 2024 because of a defect in the connecting rods and crankshafts. These parts can fail suddenly and without warning, leading to complete engine failure. It’s not the kind of thing you want to find out about when you’re halfway to Los Angeles in the summer heat.

Who’s affected?

The recall covers:

2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban
2021–2024 GMC Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL
2021–2024 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV

Dealerships are expected to begin sending out notification letters starting June 9, 2025. GM has stated they’ll either repair or replace the engine — no cost to you.

Why it matters under California Lemon Law

California has one of the strongest Lemon Laws in the country. If your vehicle has had ongoing problems or has spent a significant amount of time in the shop, you may qualify for a buyback, replacement, or compensation — especially when the issue is related to a serious safety defect like engine failure.

Even if your engine hasn’t failed yet, if you’ve had multiple repairs or long service delays related to drivability or performance, it’s worth exploring your options.

What to do now:

Keep an eye out for a recall notice.
If your vehicle has already experienced engine trouble, gather your repair records.
Don’t wait to talk to a Lemon Law professional if you’ve been back and forth to the dealer or you’ve lost confidence in your vehicle.

You don’t have to fight a manufacturer on your own. California’s laws are there to protect you — and in most cases, the manufacturer covers your legal costs.

If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s engine defect or have questions about your rights under the California Lemon Law, Call Now for a FREE Case Review 888-395-3666 or fill in the contact form at the top of the page. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – take action today to protect your rights as a California consumer!

The 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi has been plagued by a series of problems, including a critical safety recall that has left many owners concerned about their vehicle’s reliability and safety. This article talks about the issues affecting these vehicles, including recall 23S33, and provide you with essential information to help you navigate this situation.

Recall 23S33: A Fire Risk in the Trunk Area

In recent months, Ford has issued a voluntary recall (23S33) for certain 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi models due to a potential fire risk in the trunk area. According to the defect report, the high-voltage battery in these vehicles can overheat, causing a fire that may spread to other parts of the vehicle. This defect can occur when the vehicle is being driven or parked. It’s not uncommon for owners to experience symptoms such as:

A burning smell while driving
The vehicle displaying a “Stop Safely Now” message
A loss of power within seconds
A fire breaking out in the trunk area

Other Problems Affecting the Ford Fusion Energi

In addition to the recall, many owners have reported other issues with their 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi vehicles. Some common problems include:

Transmission Issues: Owners have complained about rough shifting, hesitation, and failure to engage gears properly.
Electrical System Malfunctions: Faulty wiring, faulty sensors, and software glitches have caused a range of issues, including erratic behavior from the vehicle’s systems.
Battery Drain: Some owners have experienced premature battery drain, which can leave them stranded.

Lemon Laws and Your Rights

If your 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi has been plagued by repeated problems, you may be entitled to relief under state or federal lemon laws. These laws are designed to protect consumers from defective vehicles and provide a range of remedies, including refunds, replacements, and compensation for damages.

Conclusion

The 2019-2020 Ford Fusion Energi recall is a serious issue that affects not only the vehicle’s safety but also its overall reliability. If you’re an owner of one of these vehicles, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest developments and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your passengers. By understanding your options and rights under lemon laws, you can navigate this situation with confidence and ensure that your voice is heard.

A shocking number of complaints has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to launch a safety probe into engine failure reports affecting approximately 870,000 Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac models manufactured by General Motors (GM). The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received a staggering 39 complaints, accompanied by numerous Early Warning Reporting (EWR) Field Reports, all pointing to engine failure in vehicles equipped with the L87 V8 engine.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The following models are under scrutiny:

2019-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2019-2024 GMC Sierra 1500
2021-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe
2021-2024 Chevrolet Suburban
2021-2024 GMC Yukon
2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade

The Alarming Reality of Engine Failure

Complainants have reported a disturbing trend: a bearing failure can trigger either engine seizure or a catastrophic breach of the engine block by the connecting rod. In many cases, there are no warning signs before the failure occurs, resulting in a sudden and unexpected loss of power. This increases the risk of a crash, which can lead to devastating consequences, including injuries and property damage.

NHTSA Takes Action

In response to these disturbing reports, the ODI has initiated a Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to determine the scope and severity of the potential problem. The investigation aims to assess the safety-related issues associated with engine failure and identify any necessary corrective actions to prevent future incidents.

What California Drivers Need to Know

If you’re behind the wheel of one of these affected vehicles, it’s crucial to be aware of this potential issue. Engine failure can be a significant safety concern, especially when driving at high speeds. Don’t wait until it’s too late – stay informed and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Seeking Help from a California Lemon Law Expert

If you’re experiencing engine problems or other issues with your Chevy, GMC, or Cadillac vehicle, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced California Lemon Law attorneys. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complex process and determine if you’re eligible for compensation or relief under the law. If you have concerns about your vehicle or would like to report an incident, consult with a California Lemon Law attorney for expert guidance and support.

For decades, the California Lemon Law has been the legal sword available to consumers gifting them needed legal power against auto manufacturers. The lemon law in California is also generous to consumers providing them with a provision which places the obligation upon the manufacturer to pay the consumer’s legal fees and costs.

Up until Covid, very few law firms specialized in the lemon law, with Edzant Price, LLP being one of the few. The relationship between these few law firms and the auto manufacturers was cooperative, with most law firms presenting to the manufacturers cases which were generally strong. Prior to filing a lawsuit, or “pre-litigation,” most firms also provided manufacturers an opportunity to repurchase or replace the defective vehicle, which was often accepted. As such, filing lawsuits in lemon law cases was usually unnecessary as most cases were resolved during pre-litigation. The average pre-litigation case was completed within 90 days. The manufacturer paid the legal fees for the consumer based upon the time it took the law firm to resolve the case pre-litigation.

However, post Covid, several new law firms entered into the lemon law arena and adopted an aggressive, and unnecessary, tactic to pursue these claims wherein they did not give a manufacturer the opportunity to repurchase a vehicle pre-litigation. Instead, these firms would file lawsuits against the manufacturers immediately, thereby forcing a case into litigation. (Many of these cases were also weak and should not have been accepted by any law firm.) So why would they do this? Because of the obligation imposed upon the manufacturer to pay the legal fees for the consumer. In litigation, the amount of time to pursue a lemon law case is substantially higher than resolving a case pre-litigation, allowing the law firms to bill manufacturers much higher legal fees. There is no benefit to the consumer.

Furthermore, the amount of cases filed by these firms was staggering, with court filings amounting to thousands of new cases per month. As predicted, the courts were unable to manage this massive influx of filings, taxing the civil justice system to a breaking point. In addition, the manufacturers had to spend tens of millions of unnecessary dollars defending these lawsuits. Instead of 90 days to complete a case, an average case was now taking one to two years to conclude. Simply put, the system had become horribly abused, creating a substantial burden upon the courts, the auto manufacturers, and attorneys. The system was now broken and had to be corrected.

To curb this lawsuit abuse, the California legislature created a condition that anyone seeking to bring a lemon law case must first give the manufacturer the opportunity to repurchase or replace a qualified vehicle prior to filing a lawsuit. (There are some exceptions.) This prerequisite to filing a lawsuit is designed to significantly reduce the number of lawsuits being filed daily and to curb the abuse of the civil justice system. Most importantly, this law change is designed to provide consumers of defective vehicles a quicker and smoother pathway to resolve their legitimate lemon law claims.

Edzant Price LLP advocates that all lemon law cases should try to be resolved prior to filing lawsuits. For over 35 years, we have always given the manufacturers the opportunity to repurchase or replace a vehicle prior to filing lawsuits. We believe this method of presenting lemon law cases help consumers get out of defective vehicles quickly and is also fair to auto manufacturers. Additionally, we only accept and pursue cases which have merit. Because of the way we pursue our cases, manufacturers treat Edzant Price, LLP with the utmost respect and know that when our name is on the case, the case should be taken seriously.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is facing serious concerns from owners, with a reported 130 complaints, 10 recalls, and 303 manufacturer communications. As this model hits the market, many drivers are voicing their frustration over problems that range from safety-critical issues to major mechanical failures. The list of concerns brings into question whether some of these vehicles could qualify for a buyback under California’s Lemon Law. Here’s an in-depth look at the problems plaguing the 2024 CX-90 PHEV.

Top Complaints About the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Consumer reports and complaints have highlighted four major areas of concern: forward collision avoidance, engine performance, electrical systems, and steering. These issues are not just minor inconveniences; they could pose significant safety hazards for drivers and passengers.

Forward Collision Avoidance: Numerous drivers have reported malfunctioning collision-avoidance systems, with false positives causing the brakes to activate unexpectedly. The risk of being rear-ended due to this sudden and unnecessary braking is a valid concern, especially on busy roads or highways.
Engine Issues: Many drivers have experienced engine problems, with some vehicles failing to restart after the i-stop feature engages, and others reporting a complete shutdown while in motion. This kind of unreliability in the engine system poses a clear danger, especially at high speeds.
Electrical Problems: Complaints about electrical malfunctions are widespread. The Dash Electrical Supply Unit (ESU) has been known to fail, affecting vital functions like the defroster, seat belt warnings, and battery cooling systems. Given the reliance of PHEVs on complex electrical systems, these issues are alarming and inconvenient.
Steering Concerns: A sudden loss of power steering assist is a particularly dangerous defect, making it difficult for drivers to control the vehicle. This kind of failure can occur without warning, putting both the driver and surrounding traffic at risk.

Recalls Highlight Safety and Reliability Concerns

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV has been subject to a staggering 10 recalls, indicating widespread problems that extend beyond individual cases. Here are some of the most notable recalls:

Engine Restart Failures: The i-stop feature, which automatically shuts off the engine to save fuel when idling, may prevent the engine from restarting, leading to potential stranding.
High-Voltage Battery Cooling System Issues: Faulty software in the ESU may lead to critical functions, including battery cooling and safety alerts, failing during startup.
PCM and ECM Software Malfunctions: Problems with the powertrain and engine control modules can illuminate warning lights and result in a sudden loss of drive power.
Inverter Software Errors: In plug-in hybrid models, improper software may lead to a total power loss when driving in electric mode.
Sudden Braking: The automatic braking system has a tendency to activate unexpectedly, posing a serious collision risk.
Power Steering Failures: An assembly issue with the worm gear can cause power steering assist to be lost without warning, making the vehicle difficult to steer.
Camera Malfunctions: Rear view and side cameras may not display properly due to software errors, which is a clear safety compliance issue.
Unexpected Engine and Motor Shutdown: Critical errors in the hybrid system software can cause both the engine and electric motor to shut down unexpectedly.
Pedestrian Warning Sounds: Missing software in the AVAS amplifier can result in incorrect pedestrian alert sounds, failing to meet federal safety standards for hybrid and electric vehicles.

California Lemon Law: What You Need to Know

California has some of the strongest Lemon Law protections for consumers. If your vehicle has repeated, unresolved problems that impair its use, safety, or value, you may be entitled to a buyback or replacement. Under the California Lemon Law, a car manufacturer must either replace your vehicle or refund your money if they cannot fix a substantial defect within a reasonable number of attempts.

So, what counts as a substantial defect? Issues that compromise your safety or significantly impact the car’s performance typically qualify. For instance, if your 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV loses power while driving, suddenly engages the brakes, or suffers from major electrical failures, these could be considered substantial defects.

If you’ve taken your vehicle in for multiple repairs for the same issue without a permanent fix, you might have grounds for a Lemon Law claim. It’s important to keep detailed records of all service visits, recall repairs, and communication with Mazda to strengthen your case.

Next Steps for Owners

If you’re dealing with repeated, unresolved issues with your 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV, consulting with a Lemon Law attorney can help clarify your options. California’s Lemon Law is designed to protect you from being stuck with a faulty vehicle. Given the ongoing recalls and widespread complaints, many owners may find themselves in a position to take advantage of these consumer protections.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, known for its spacious design, modern features, and reasonable price point. However, recent models (2021-2024) have experienced a series of issues that have frustrated owners and raised safety concerns. These common problems affect Santa Fe vehicles with GDI engines.

Common Issues Affecting the 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

Fuel Injector Problems Leading to Stalling
A major concern for many Santa Fe owners is the vehicle’s fuel injector system. Faulty fuel injectors can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, especially in models with GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engines. These issues have led to numerous complaints of the vehicle stalling while driving, creating hazardous situations on busy roads.
Loss of Power
Some owners report a sudden loss of power while driving, particularly when accelerating or maintaining speed on the highway. This loss of power can be alarming and dangerous, especially in situations where acceleration is necessary, such as merging or overtaking. Many drivers have reported that their Santa Fe either stalls entirely or hesitates significantly before regaining power, often triggering check engine or warning lights.
Persistent Check Engine Light
For Santa Fe models across 2021-2024, the check engine light has become a frequent visitor. Many owners report that the light comes on without clear resolution, even after multiple trips to the dealership. While the check engine light could signify any number of issues, the combination of repeated lights and related powertrain issues has led to frustration and concerns about reliability.

Complaints and Recalls for Each Model Year

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

Owners of the 2021 model have raised concerns about fuel system problems, including fuel leaks at the pipe connection and improperly tightened fuel pipes. Powertrain complaints are also prevalent, with owners describing issues such as failure to accelerate and hesitation while driving. Recalls include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard: Due to water accumulation, an electrical short could lead to a fire.
Loss of Drive Power: A transmission oil pump malfunction can cause total power loss.
Inadequate Windshield Bonding: Improper bonding during manufacturing may cause the windshield to detach in a crash.

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2022 Santa Fe has seen similar powertrain issues, with some owners reporting a sudden inability to accelerate and warning lights like “Check Hybrid System.” The “phantom braking” issue has also emerged, where the emergency braking system activates without reason, nearly causing accidents. Recalls for the 2022 model include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
Loss of Drive Power
Turbocharger Oil Supply Pipe Leak: A cracked oil supply pipe could lead to leaks in the engine compartment.

2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV

In the 2023 plug-in hybrid models, forward collision avoidance issues have led to abrupt braking in traffic. Complaints also include poor acceleration response, with significant delay or lag from the time the accelerator is pressed to when the vehicle actually moves. Key recalls include:

Tow Hitch Harness Fire Hazard
Seat Belt Pretensioners May Explode: This recall affects the front seat belt pretensioners, which may explode upon deployment in a crash.

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

For the latest 2024 model, powertrain and electrical issues are significant. Some drivers report the vehicle losing motive power and experiencing flickering dashboard screens. Complaints include blacked-out instrument panels, “Transmission System Check” warnings, and persistent audio issues that continue even when the vehicle is off. Recalls for this model include:

Unintentional Airbag Deployment or Deactivation: Damaged wiring harnesses can lead to unintended airbag activation or deactivation.
Vehicle Roll Away from Software Error: A transmission software error may result in a roll-away when the vehicle is parked.
Obstructed Rear-View Camera Image: A trailer parking assist message may obstruct the rear-view camera, violating rear visibility standards.

Should You Be Concerned?

These issues have led to frustration for many Hyundai Santa Fe owners. If you’re experiencing any of the above problems, it’s essential to address them promptly for your safety. Keep an eye out for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Hyundai, and report any persistent issues to your dealer.

What’s Next?

The 2021-2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offers many attractive features but has also faced considerable challenges, particularly with its powertrain and fuel injector systems. If you’re dealing with ongoing issues, it’s crucial to know your rights, especially if repairs have been ineffective. Lemon laws may protect you if your vehicle has recurring problems that affect its performance or safety. Consider consulting with a lemon law professional to discuss options if repairs haven’t resolved the issue.

Owning a car should be about convenience and freedom – not worry over performance and safety. If you’re having trouble with your Santa Fe, stay informed, stay safe, and know your options.

The Volkswagen ID.4 SUV represents the German automaker’s entrance into the growing electric vehicle (EV) market. Launched with the promise of combining the brand’s legendary driving dynamics with cutting-edge EV technology, the ID.4 aims to provide a sustainable yet practical driving experience. However, as with many new models, especially those pioneering new technologies, the ID.4 has faced its share of teething troubles. This article will delve into the common problems reported by ID.4 owners and explain how these issues could potentially classify your vehicle as a lemon under the California Lemon Law. We’ll also highlight the importance of seeking assistance from a lemon law attorney if you find yourself grappling with persistent vehicle issues.

Common Volkswagen ID.4 Problems

1. Charging Issues

Many ID.4 owners have reported difficulties with charging their vehicles. Problems range from slow charging speeds to the car not charging at all. Some users have encountered issues with the compatibility of their ID.4 with various public charging stations, leading to inconvenience and frustration.

2. Software Glitches

The ID.4’s infotainment system and other software-driven features have been a source of concern for some drivers. Complaints include unresponsive touchscreens, malfunctioning navigation systems, and intermittent connectivity issues with smartphones. These software bugs can detract from the overall user experience and disrupt daily usage.

3. Battery Performance

Some ID.4 owners have reported inconsistent battery performance, including unexpected drops in range and inaccurate range estimates. Such issues can severely impact the reliability of the vehicle, especially for long-distance travel.

4. Build Quality

Although Volkswagen is renowned for its build quality, some ID.4 owners have experienced issues with fit and finish. Reports include problems with door alignment, rattling noises from the cabin, and malfunctioning interior components. These issues, while sometimes minor, can affect overall satisfaction with the vehicle.

5. Electrical System Faults

Electrical system faults have also been reported, with owners experiencing warning lights and system errors. These faults can be unsettling and sometimes necessitate multiple visits to the dealership for resolution.

When Is Your Vehicle a Lemon?

A vehicle is generally considered a “lemon” if it has significant defects that affect its use, value, or safety, and these defects persist despite multiple repair attempts. Under California law, a vehicle is presumed to be a lemon if:

The manufacturer has made at least two attempts to repair a warranty problem that could result in death or serious injury if the vehicle is driven.
The manufacturer has made at least four attempts to fix the same warranty problem.
The vehicle has been out of service for more than 30 days (not necessarily consecutive) for warranty issues.

Understanding the California Lemon Law

The California Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, provides robust protections for consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles. The law mandates that if a manufacturer cannot repair a vehicle to conform to its warranty after a reasonable number of attempts, the manufacturer must either replace the vehicle or refund the purchase price, minus a usage fee.

Benefits of the California Lemon Law

Consumer Protection: The law protects consumers from being stuck with a defective vehicle.
Replacement or Refund: Consumers are entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund, ensuring they receive the value they paid for.
Legal Support: Consumers can recover legal fees if they prevail in a lemon law claim, making it financially feasible to pursue legitimate claims.

The Importance of a Lemon Law Attorney

Navigating the intricacies of the California Lemon Law can be challenging, and manufacturers often have significant legal resources at their disposal. Here’s why hiring a lemon law attorney is a smart move:

Expertise: Lemon law attorneys have specialized knowledge of consumer protection laws and can effectively navigate the legal process.
Maximized Compensation: An attorney can help ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to, including potential incidental and consequential damages.
No Upfront Costs: Many lemon law attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.

Conclusion

The Volkswagen ID.4 SUV, while a promising entry into the electric vehicle market, has faced several common problems reported by owners. If you find yourself repeatedly dealing with these issues, your vehicle might qualify as a lemon under the California Lemon Law. Seeking the assistance of a lemon law attorney can provide the expertise and support needed to navigate this legal landscape and ensure you receive fair treatment. Remember, consumer protection laws are there to safeguard your rights and ensure you get the quality you paid for in your vehicle purchase.

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Category Archives: California Lemon Law

Ford Recall: Rearview Camera Glitch Affects Over 1 Million Vehicles