repeated automobile problems – Page 3 – California Lemon Law blog

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.

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.

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’ve recently purchased a Tesla Cybertruck, you’re probably enjoying the attention it brings — but there’s something new owners need to be aware of. Tesla has issued a recall affecting about 46,000 2024-2025 Cybertrucks due to a faulty exterior trim panel that could detach while driving.

This isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s a real safety issue and could raise serious Lemon Law concerns here in California.

What’s the defect?

The problem lies in a trim piece along the windshield, called the cantrail panel. Tesla says it may have been attached using the wrong adhesive. As a result, the panel could come loose and separate from the vehicle while you’re on the road.

If you’ve already noticed unusual wind noise or seen Cybertruck owners post about missing trim — this might explain it.

What’s Tesla doing about it?

Tesla has already started performing repairs, which involve replacing the entire cantrail assembly. Owners aren’t expected to pay out of pocket for the fix, but the availability of parts — and service appointments — can vary widely.

Why Lemon Law applies here in California

Tesla has had a mixed track record when it comes to customer service and timely repairs. If this defect has left your vehicle in the shop for a long period, or if your Cybertruck has other unresolved issues, you could be protected under California’s Lemon Law.

You may qualify if:

You’ve experienced repeated or serious safety-related issues
Tesla can’t fix the defect within a reasonable number of attempts
Your vehicle has been out of service for 30+ total days under warranty

It doesn’t matter if your truck is new or leased — what matters is whether it’s safe, reliable, and performing the way it should.

What you can do right now:

Check your paperwork to see if you’ve already reported trim or body issues
Schedule your repair as soon as possible — and keep all documentation
If you’ve already had problems with build quality or multiple repair visits, it may be time to explore your legal options

Don’t assume you have to live with poor fit and finish. California law is on your side, and in most cases, you can pursue a Lemon Law claim without paying anything out of pocket. If your Cybertruck has already spent more time in the shop than on the road, let’s talk. You may be entitled to a replacement or refund — and we can walk you through what that looks like. Call Now for a FREE Case Review at 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!

According to Ford’s records, certain 2020-2021 Aviator vehicles were recorded as having the repair successfully completed, but may still be at risk due to the incorrect software installation. If the correct software update remedy is not installed on the vehicle, the manufacturing defect can cause a lower capacity cell to develop an internal short circuit, leading to a battery power off and potentially resulting in a vehicle fire.

The issue was first brought to Ford’s attention in November 2024, when an audit revealed insufficient data to confirm correct software application across all field service actions (FSAs) using the FDRS service tool. A team was formed to investigate further and created templates to track software lineage part numbers. In December 2024, Ford informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the concern and discussed a plan to address the mismatched vehicles. After conducting an audit, it was found that 99.3% of the repairs conducted under recall 23S53 had the correct software installed. However, they identified specific vehicles that were recorded as receiving the remedy but still had software that did not address the safety risk.

To rectify the situation, Ford has approved a field action and will update the Battery Energy Control Module software for the affected vehicles. The company is not aware of any reports of accidents or injuries related to this condition. Dealers will correct the problem by updating the software with the correct version.

The recall number for this issue is 25S58, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-349. If you own a 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicle equipped with a 3.0L PHEV engine, and you receive a recall notice, contact your dealer for repairs to ensure your safety on the road.

Nissan has issued a recall for certain 2025 model year Murano, Pathfinder, and Infiniti QX60 vehicles due to a potential braking safety issue. The problem affects the front brake caliper assemblies, which may have reduced strength and could break, leading to reduced braking performance.

The issue was discovered in January 2025 during a routine production brake test on a 2025 Nissan Pathfinder. A technician reported a failure of the front right-hand brake caliper assembly, prompting Nissan to quarantine the defective part and launch an investigation. Further analysis revealed that the suspect brake caliper had been produced with a common supplier production lot code (51A), which was found to have an inadvertent modification to an internal parameter setting. This modification reduced the material’s strength, making it more prone to failure.

The supplier’s investigation confirmed that a total of 3,115 caliper castings were produced in the affected lot and shipped to Nissan for assembly into vehicles. Through traceability records, Nissan identified 2,341 vehicles that may have received a potentially affected brake caliper. Of these vehicles, 711 were held for inspection, while 200 had been exported and 1,430 had previously been shipped to the US.

According to Nissan, if one or both of the front brake calipers fail, it can result in reduced braking performance and may not comply with certain performance requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 135. This could increase the risk of a crash, particularly if drivers are unable to stop their vehicles in time. Affected customers may notice uneven braking performance, and the “Low Brake Fluid” warning light may illuminate in certain cases.

To address the issue, Nissan will be recalling affected vehicles and asking owners to return to their dealerships for an inspection and replacement of the front brake caliper assemblies as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on May 9, 2025. The recall is identified as Nissan’s numbers PD137 and PD138, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-173. This issue highlights the importance of rigorous testing and quality control measures in ensuring the safety of vehicles on the road.

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.

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.

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Ford Super Duty Steering Problem: F-250, F-350, and F-450