California Lemon Law Buybacks – California Lemon Law blog

(Recall: SB-25-16-005 / NHTSA Campaign 25V-690)

If you own or are considering buying a 2025 Model 3 or 2026 Model Y from Tesla, there’s a safety issue you should know about. Certain vehicles built between early March and mid-August 2025 are affected by a battery pack contactor fault that may result in an unexpected loss of drive power. This article explains what the issue is, which vehicles are affected, what the risks are, and what owners should do next.

What is the issue?

Tesla has determined that certain 2025 Model 3 and 2026 Model Y vehicles are equipped with a battery pack contactor manufactured with an InTiCa solenoid that may have a poor coil termination connection.

If the contactor opens unexpectedly while the vehicle is in drive, the driver loses the ability to apply torque through the accelerator pedal, resulting in a loss of propulsion. This sudden loss of drive power could increase the risk of a collision.

There is no warning prior to the failure. However, when it occurs, the driver receives an immediate visual alert on the user interface instructing them to safely pull over.

Which vehicles are affected?

2025 Tesla Model 3 vehicles manufactured between March 8 and August 12, 2025.
2026 Tesla Model Y vehicles manufactured between March 15 and August 15, 2025.

Tesla estimates roughly 13,000 vehicles in total are affected, including around 5,000 Model 3s and nearly 8,000 Model Ys produced within those date ranges.

Timeline of Investigation & Recall

August 8, 2025: Tesla’s Field Reliability team began investigating service cases where vehicles were unable to enter drive and high coil resistance was detected in the pack contactor.
August 8 – September 26, 2025: Tesla collected contactors from the field and performed detailed failure analysis.
September 29 – October 2, 2025: Tesla reviewed the failure analysis results, along with repair and production records.
October 3, 2025: Tesla completed its investigation and determined the scope of affected vehicles, initiating a voluntary recall.
December 9, 2025: Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed to customers.

As of early October 2025, Tesla had identified 36 warranty claims and 26 field reports related to this issue, with no known injuries, collisions, or fatalities.

What is the remedy?

Tesla Service will correct the problem by replacing the high-voltage battery pack contactor. The updated parts do not include the defective InTiCa solenoid and have improved coil termination connections. The repair takes approximately one hour to complete, and Tesla will notify all affected owners by mail.

Why this matters

Safety risk

A sudden loss of propulsion without warning can be dangerous, especially when driving at highway speeds or in traffic. While no injuries have been reported, Tesla’s recall emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue promptly.

Financial and resale considerations

Unresolved recalls can affect resale value, financing, and insurance. Ensuring the recall repair is completed not only improves safety but also helps preserve the vehicle’s long-term value.

What owners should do if their Tesla vehicle is affected.

Schedule a service appointment through the Tesla app or by contacting your nearest Tesla Service Center.
Pay attention to alerts while driving. If a visual warning or loss of power occurs, pull over safely and contact Tesla support immediately.
Keep documentation of the recall repair for future reference or resale.
If buying used, confirm with the seller that any open recalls have been completed.

This recall serves as a reminder that even advanced electric vehicles like Tesla are not immune to hardware issues. While Tesla can often fix software defects through over-the-air updates, mechanical components such as contactors and solenoids require physical inspection and replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does this recall affect all 2025 Model 3 and 2026 Model Y vehicles?
A: No. Only vehicles built between March and August 2025 with the affected InTiCa solenoid contactor are included.

Q: My car feels fine — do I still need the repair?
A: Yes. The failure can occur without warning, so even if your car shows no symptoms, Tesla recommends completing the replacement.

Q: How long will the repair take?
A: The contactor replacement typically takes about one hour and is performed free of charge.

Q: Can I continue driving before the repair?
A: Tesla advises that owners continue driving normally but schedule service as soon as possible. If your vehicle shows a propulsion loss alert, pull over safely and contact Tesla.

Conclusion

If you drive a 2025 Tesla Model 3 or 2026 Model Y, this recall deserves your attention. The contactor defect can cause sudden loss of drive power, posing a potential safety risk. Tesla is replacing the affected parts at no cost to owners, with notifications beginning December 2025.

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.

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.

If you own a 2022 to 2025 Toyota Tundra — including the hybrid models — there’s a recall you should know about. It involves a defect in the reverse light system that could leave you backing up in the dark, quite literally.

This issue affects around 443,000 vehicles, and while it might seem minor at first glance, it raises both safety and legal concerns for California drivers.

What’s the problem?

Toyota found that moisture can get into the reverse light assemblies, which can cause the lights to fail unexpectedly. That’s bad news if you rely on your lights to safely navigate out of a driveway, a parking spot, or a tight alley at night.

Even worse, Toyota says the problem may also point to corrosion in the wiring, which could lead to other electrical issues down the road.

What’s being done?

Repairs are expected to begin in mid-July 2025, and Toyota plans to replace the reverse lamp assemblies and check for corroded wiring. Until then, owners are left waiting — and possibly driving a truck that isn’t fully safe.

Lemon Law and why it matters

In California, the Lemon Law protects you when your vehicle has a defect that:

Affects safety or drivability
Repeatedly hasn’t been fixed
Or causes your vehicle to be out of service for an extended period

If your Tundra has already had issues with the reverse lights — especially if you’ve brought it in more than once — you might have a strong case. The same is true if your truck ends up sitting in the dealership for weeks waiting for parts this summer.

What to do:

Make sure you have a copy of any previous service records involving the lighting system.
Once repairs are available, get them done — and ask for detailed paperwork showing exactly what was replaced.
If your vehicle has been unreliable or unsafe due to this issue (or others), it’s worth talking to someone about your Lemon Law rights.

You shouldn’t have to wait months to feel safe in your truck. And you definitely shouldn’t have to accept defective parts in a vehicle you paid good money for.

If you’re experiencing problems with your Toyota Tundra 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!

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!