Manufacturer defect – California Lemon Law blog

Owners of certain 2020-2022 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) should be aware of a problem involving a potential high-voltage battery defect that could lead to a vehicle fire, even when the vehicle is parked and turned off. The recall affects vehicles equipped with specific high-voltage battery packs manufactured during a limited production period.

What Is the Problem?

According to Chrysler, some affected Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid vehicles were built with high-voltage battery cells produced on an alternative assembly line at LG Energy Solution (LGES). Engineers have determined that these battery packs may experience an internal failure that can result in thermal runaway, a condition where battery cells rapidly overheat and potentially ignite. What makes this recall particularly concerning is that the fire risk may exist even when the vehicle is parked and the ignition is turned off.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall applies to certain 2020-2022 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrids. The affected vehicles were manufactured between August 5, 2020, and May 2, 2022, during the period when batteries containing cells from the alternative LG Energy Solution production line were installed. Vehicles built before or after this time frame, non-hybrid Pacifica models, and vehicles equipped with battery cells from LGES’s primary production line are not included in this recall.

How Was the Issue Discovered?

Federal regulators have been investigating reports of battery fires in Chrysler Pacifica PHEVs for more than two years. The timeline includes:

January 17, 2024: NHTSA opened an investigation into battery-related thermal events in earlier model Pacifica PHEVs.
March 27, 2026: The investigation expanded to include 2017-2026 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid vehicles.
April 30, 2026: Chrysler launched its own internal investigation into fires involving 2020-2022 models.
May 28, 2026: Chrysler concluded that a safety defect exists and initiated a recall.

How Many Fires Have Been Reported?

As of May 15, 2026, Chrysler reported:

4 confirmed field reports of fires
3 customer assistance records
No reported injuries
No reported crashes

While Chrysler describes the incidents as occurring at a very low frequency, each reported fire involved battery cells manufactured on the alternative LG Energy Solution assembly line. Engineers have analyzed the one recovered battery pack involved in a fire, but the exact root cause has not yet been determined. Chrysler and LG Energy Solution continue to investigate.

What Should Owners Do?

Until repairs are completed, Chrysler is advising owners to take the following precautions:

Do not charge the vehicle.
Park the vehicle outside.
Park away from homes, garages, and other structures.

These temporary precautions are intended to reduce the risk should a battery failure occur.

What Is the Repair?

Chrysler dealers will perform repairs including:

Updating the high-voltage battery control module software
Inspecting the high-voltage battery pack
Replacing the battery pack if inspection determines replacement is necessary

Owner notification letters are expected to begin mailing June 23, 2026.

Recall Information

Manufacturer Recall Number: 52D
NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-362

If your vehicle is included in this recall, it is important to follow Chrysler’s safety recommendations and schedule repairs as soon as they become available.

At Edzant Price LLP, we encourage vehicle owners to stay informed about manufacturer recalls and to document any issues they experience with their vehicles. If a defect results in property damage or personal injury, understanding your legal rights can be an important part of protecting yourself and your family.

The Kawasaki Teryx H2 is one of the most powerful side-by-sides on the market, but some owners have experienced serious problems involving the vehicle’s CVT clutch system. These issues eventually led to a stop-ride notice and recall affecting certain Teryx H2 models.

If your Kawasaki Teryx H2 has been sidelined by clutch failures, repair delays, or recall-related downtime, you may have rights under California Lemon Law.

What Is the Kawasaki Teryx H2 Recall?

Kawasaki recalled certain Teryx H2 models after discovering that a component within the primary clutch assembly, known as the drive converter sheave, could crack or fail during operation.

A failed clutch component can damage the CVT system and may create safety concerns. As a result, Kawasaki instructed affected owners not to operate their vehicles until repairs could be completed.

The recall repair includes replacement of affected clutch components, installation of additional protective hardware, and a software update.

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Owners have reported:

Clutch failures
Excessive vibration
Belt damage and abnormal wear
Loss of power
Extended repair delays
Vehicles parked for weeks or months awaiting parts

For many consumers, the biggest issue is not simply the defect itself, but the loss of use caused by a stop-ride notice or repeated dealership visits.

Can a Recalled Kawasaki Teryx H2 Qualify as a Lemon?

Yes, in some situations.

California Lemon Law may apply when a manufacturer cannot repair a defect that substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.

Your Teryx H2 may qualify if:

The clutch or CVT system required multiple repair attempts
The vehicle was out of service for an extended period
The defect continues after repairs
The recall prevented normal use of the vehicle

A recall does not automatically make a vehicle a lemon, but it can be important evidence that a serious defect exists.

What Compensation May Be Available?

If your Kawasaki Teryx H2 qualifies under California Lemon Law, you may be entitled to:

A vehicle buyback
A replacement vehicle
A cash settlement
Recovery of attorney fees

Speak With a California Lemon Law Attorney

If your Kawasaki Teryx H2 has suffered clutch problems, repeated repairs, or lengthy downtime, you may have legal options. An experienced California Lemon Law attorney can review your repair history, explain your rights, and determine whether you may be entitled to compensation.

Don’t assume that a recall solves the problem. If your Teryx H2 has spent more time at the dealership than on the trail, it may be time to explore your Lemon Law rights.

Contact Us Today!

Owners of certain Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles should be aware of a significant safety defect affecting more than one million vehicles across North America. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) has announced Recall 21D (NHTSA Campaign Number 26V-363) involving certain 2021-2025 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator models due to a defect in the electric hydraulic power steering pump (EHPSP) wiring system that could potentially lead to a vehicle fire.

What Is the Problem?

According to FCA US, under certain conditions, high-resistance electrical activity can occur at the connection point of the Electric Hydraulic Power Steering Pump (EHPSP). This increased electrical resistance can generate excessive heat, causing nearby combustible materials to overheat and potentially ignite. What makes this defect particularly concerning is that a fire could occur even when the vehicle is parked and the ignition is turned off.

The issue originates from the electrical connection between the EHPSP and its wiring harness. Investigators discovered that some EHPSP components were manufactured outside specified tolerances, which could result in poor electrical contact. Over time, this can create excessive resistance, heat buildup, melting of the connector, and in rare cases, a vehicle fire.

Warning Signs Drivers May Notice

Before a failure occurs, some owners may experience symptoms related to the power steering system, including:

Loss of power steering assist
A “Service Power Steering” warning message
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to the steering system

However, FCA notes that some incidents occurred without prior warning, which is one reason the recall was issued.

How the Investigation Unfolded

The road to this recall began in May 2023 when FCA US launched an investigation into reports of engine compartment fires in Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles. After reviewing available data through April 2024, the company initially closed the investigation, determining that the occurrence rate was low and did not represent an unreasonable safety risk.

That assessment changed in August 2024 when FCA began receiving an increased number of reports involving fires originating near the EHPSP electrical connection. Shortly afterward, on September 6, 2024, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened a formal investigation, designated PE24-024, into engine compartment fires involving 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles.

Over the next 18 months, FCA and NHTSA worked extensively to determine the cause of the fires. Engineers analyzed field reports, inspected returned parts, conducted vehicle buybacks, performed CT scans and X-ray analysis, tested materials, and carried out extensive laboratory and vehicle testing.

In spring 2025, investigators identified manufacturing tolerance issues in the EHPSP connector assembly. These issues could cause excessive insertion forces during assembly, resulting in spread terminals, incomplete electrical connections, and elevated electrical resistance. FCA also identified a separate “terminal push-out” condition that could contribute to poor electrical contact.

Although engineers initially struggled to duplicate the exact failure mode, FCA confirmed in April 2026 that a loose EHPSP electrical connection could generate enough heat to melt the connector and potentially ignite surrounding materials.

By May 2026, FCA was aware of:

72 field reports related to the issue
63 customer assistance records
12 additional service records potentially related to the defect
1 reported injury potentially associated with the condition

No accidents related to the defect had been reported.

Based on the findings of the investigation, FCA’s Vehicle Regulations Committee formally determined on May 28, 2026, that a safety defect exists in affected vehicles.

What Should Owners Do?

FCA US is advising owners of affected vehicles to park their vehicle outside and away from structures, garages, and other vehicles until the recall repair has been completed. This recommendation reflects the possibility that an electrical overheating event could occur even when the vehicle is parked and turned off.

Dealers will inspect the EHPSP connection and replace affected components as necessary at no cost to vehicle owners.

Owner notification letters are expected to begin mailing on July 9, 2026.

Recall Information

FCA Recall Number: 21D.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-363.
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 1,076,999.
Defect: EHPSP electrical connection overheating.
Risk: Potential vehicle fire, including while parked.
Remedy: Inspection and replacement of affected parts as necessary.

If you own a 2021-2025 Jeep Wrangler or Jeep Gladiator, it is important to monitor recall announcements and schedule the repair as soon as it becomes available. While the number of reported incidents remains relatively small compared to the number of vehicles on the road, the potential consequences of an under-hood fire make this a recall that should not be ignored.

General Motors has issued a serious safety recall and “Do Not Drive” warning affecting a small number of 4WD and AWD Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC vehicles after discovering a defect that could cause the front or rear wheels to lock up without warning while driving.

The issue centers around defective transfer case assemblies that may have been built without a critical oil pickup tube — a component necessary to properly lubricate internal bearings inside the transfer case. Without lubrication, the transfer case can fail suddenly, potentially causing wheel lock-up and increasing the risk of a crash.

Which GM Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall impacts certain:

2026 Cadillac Escalade
2026 Cadillac Escalade ESV
2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2026 Chevrolet Suburban
2026 Chevrolet Tahoe
2026 GMC Sierra 1500
2026 GMC Yukon
2026 GMC Yukon XL

The recall also includes certain 2015–2020 model year:

Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet Tahoe
Cadillac Escalade
Cadillac Escalade ESV
GMC Yukon
GMC Yukon XL

Only vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) are affected. Rear-wheel-drive-only vehicles do not use the same transfer case and are not included in the recall.

What Is Causing the Wheel Lock-Up Problem?

According to GM’s defect report, the issue stems from manufacturing errors at a supplier facility during assembly line process changes.

GM says standardized assembly procedures and quality control protocols were not properly followed, allowing some transfer case assemblies to leave the factory without the oil pickup tube installed. Normally, built-in error-proofing systems would detect and reject incomplete assemblies, but those safeguards were bypassed.

Without the oil pickup tube:

Transfer case bearings may not receive proper lubrication.
Internal components can overheat or seize.
The transfer case can fail suddenly.
Front and/or rear wheels may lock up while driving.

Drivers May Hear Grinding Noises Before Failure

GM says some drivers may notice a grinding sound before the wheels lock up. However, the wheel lock-up could also occur with little or no warning. A sudden wheel lock-up at highway speeds could result in loss of vehicle control and significantly increase the risk of a crash.

How GM Discovered the Problem

The issue first came to light on April 14, 2026, when a GM engineer submitted a report through the company’s Speak Up For Safety (SUFS) program after reviewing a failed transfer case from a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 that experienced wheel lock-up in a parking lot.

A teardown inspection revealed the transfer case was missing the oil pickup tube entirely.

GM officially opened a product investigation on April 17, 2026.

Using supplier end-of-line torque testing data, GM identified:

68 suspect transfer case assemblies
46 assemblies installed in 2026 production vehicles
1 suspect service replacement transfer case shipped for repairs involving older 2015–2020 vehicles
54 dealerships that may have received the suspect replacement parts
21 vehicles that may have received defective replacement transfer cases during service repairs

GM’s investigation identified four field complaints potentially related to the defect. At this time, GM says it is not aware of any crashes or injuries linked to the issue. GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority approved the recall on April 30, 2026.

What Owners Should Do

GM is urging affected owners not to drive their vehicles until the recall inspection and repair have been completed. Owner notification letters are expected to begin mailing on June 22, 2026.

Recall Information

GM Recall Number: N262557620
NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-289

Owners of certain 2024–2026 Mercedes-Benz vehicles may soon receive an important safety notice tied to a software issue that can cause the instrument cluster display to fail while driving. The recall, filed under NHTSA Campaign Number 26V-281, affects an estimated 144,049 vehicles across several Mercedes-Benz and AMG model lines.

According to Mercedes-Benz AG, the issue involves the software inside the vehicle’s infotainment control unit. Under certain conditions, the system may trigger repeated resets as part of an intended fallback behavior. During the reset process, critical driver information displayed in the instrument cluster may temporarily disappear.

What Is the Problem?

Mercedes-Benz says the infotainment control unit software may initiate an unexpected system reset while the vehicle is in motion. Although the reset is part of the system’s design, it can briefly interrupt the display of driving-related information.

During the reset process, drivers may temporarily lose visibility of important information such as:

Vehicle speed
Warning indicators
Driver assistance information
Navigation or system alerts
Other instrument cluster data

Because the driver may be unable to see critical information during the interruption, the issue increases the risk of a crash.

No Advance Warning Before the Failure

One concerning aspect of this recall is that drivers typically will not receive any warning before the issue occurs.

Mercedes-Benz states that due to the nature of the failure mechanism, the system reset can happen without prior notification. When it occurs, drivers may notice the instrument cluster briefly going blank or restarting.

Vehicles Included in the Recall

The recall affects certain 2024–2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT, C-Class, E-Class, SL, CLE, and GLC vehicles, including the following models:

2025–2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 4MATIC
2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E 4MATIC+
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S E PERFORMANCE 4MATIC+
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLE53 4MATIC
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLE53 4MATIC Cabriolet
2024–2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLE53 4MATIC+
2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLE53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 53 4MATIC+
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Wagon
2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG E 53 E 4MATIC+
2025–2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43
2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43 4MATIC Coupe
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43 Coupe
2025–2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC63 S E 4MATIC+
2025–2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC63 S E 4MATIC+ Coupe
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT43
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL43
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL55 4MATIC+
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL63 4MATIC+
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL63 S E PERFORMANCE 4MATIC+

What Is Mercedes-Benz Doing to Fix the Issue?

Mercedes-Benz dealers will correct the issue by updating the infotainment control unit software.

The repair will be performed free of charge.

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed beginning June 26, 2026.

What Owners Should Do

If you own one of the affected vehicles, you should:

Watch for an official recall notice from Mercedes-Benz.
Contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer to confirm recall eligibility.
Schedule the software update once parts and repair procedures become available.
Pay close attention to any unusual instrument cluster behavior while driving.

Drivers who experience repeated display interruptions should consider limiting vehicle use until the software update is completed.

Final Thoughts

Modern luxury vehicles rely heavily on integrated digital systems, and this recall highlights how even intended software behaviors can create unexpected safety concerns. A brief loss of instrument cluster visibility may seem minor, but when critical driving information disappears at highway speeds or in heavy traffic, the consequences can become serious very quickly. Mercedes-Benz owners affected by NHTSA Recall 26V-281 should take the issue seriously and schedule the repair as soon as it becomes available.

If your vehicle’s backup camera suddenly flips, goes black, or fails when you shift into reverse, you are not alone. Ford Motor Company have identified two major safety defects affecting more than 1.7 million vehicles due to rearview camera failures that increase the risk of accidents.

Recall #1 — Rearview Image Flips or Inverts

NHTSA Campaign: 26V123000
Vehicles Affected: 889,950

Affected Models

2020–2022 Ford Escape
2020–2022 Lincoln Corsair
2020–2024 Lincoln Aviator
2020–2024 Ford Explorer

What’s the Problem?

The image displayed on the center screen may flip or invert when the vehicle is placed in reverse. Drivers may see a distorted or incorrect rear view, making it difficult to judge distance or detect obstacles. This defect violates federal rear visibility requirements and significantly increases the risk of a crash when backing up.

Safety Standard Involved

The vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111 (Rear Visibility), which requires a clear and accurate rear camera image while reversing.

Recall Status

Fix: Still under development
Owner notification letters: Begin April 17, 2026
Final repair notice: Expected Q2 2026
Ford Recall Number: 26C11

Recall #2 — Rearview Camera May Shut Down Completely

NHTSA Campaign: 26V124000
Vehicles Affected: 849,310

Affected Models

2021–2026 Ford Bronco
2021–2024 Ford Edge

What’s the Problem?

The vehicle’s Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) may overheat and shut down. When this happens, the rearview camera image may not appear at all.

A blank camera screen when reversing can prevent drivers from seeing pedestrians, vehicles, or objects behind them.

Recall Status

Fix: Software update
Repair method:
- Dealer service
- Over-the-air (OTA) update
Owner notification letters: Begin March 30, 2026
Ford Recall Number: 26S09

Why These Recalls Matter

Rearview cameras are not just convenience features — they are federally mandated safety systems designed to prevent:

Backover pedestrian accidents
Collisions with objects or vehicles
Injuries in parking lots and driveways

When these systems malfunction, drivers lose a critical safety tool.

Both recalls involve failures of the same safety function:

Drivers cannot reliably see what is behind the vehicle while reversing.

California Lemon Law — When a Recall Becomes a Legal Case

A recall alone does not automatically qualify a vehicle as a lemon. However, you may have a California Lemon Law claim if:

✔ The camera problem continues after multiple repair attempts
✔ The defect substantially impairs vehicle safety
✔ The manufacturer cannot fix the issue within a reasonable time
✔ Your vehicle is still under warranty

Backup camera failures are often considered serious safety defects, especially when they affect visibility and accident risk.

Free Legal Help for California Drivers

If your recalled Ford continues to have rearview camera problems, you do not have to fight the manufacturer alone.

California Lemon Law attorneys can:

Review your repair history
Determine eligibility
Handle the claim process
Negotiate directly with Ford

Most claims are handled at no cost to the vehicle owner.

Get a Free Case Review Today

Rearview camera defects can put you and your family at risk. If your Ford vehicle has ongoing camera issues related to these recalls, you may qualify for compensation under California law.

Contact us today for a free Lemon Law case evaluation.

Ford Motor Company has expanded a significant safety recall affecting certain plug-in hybrid vehicles after discovering that additional high-voltage battery cells may be susceptible to failure. The recall impacts thousands of Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles and raises concerns about sudden loss of power and potential fire risk.

The expanded recall is listed under NHTSA Campaign Number 26V-091 and covers approximately 24,690 vehicles nationwide.

What Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall applies to:

2023–2025 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)
2023–2026 Lincoln Corsair Plug-In Hybrid

These vehicles may contain high-voltage battery cells manufactured before updated supplier quality controls were implemented in October 2024. This action expands earlier recalls addressing the same underlying battery defect.

What Is the Battery Problem?

According to Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), certain high-voltage battery cells may develop an internal short circuit due to manufacturing variability.

Investigators determined that inconsistencies during battery production may create microscopic defects inside the battery cell. These defects can damage the separator layer between the cathode and anode — a critical safety component designed to prevent internal electrical contact. If the separator becomes compromised, the battery cell may fail.

Safety Risks Associated With the Defect

A battery internal short circuit can lead to serious safety issues, including:

Sudden shutdown of the vehicle’s propulsion system
Display of a “Stop Safely Now” warning message
Loss of motive power while driving
Battery thermal venting
Increased risk of vehicle fire

Ford states that steering, braking, and lighting systems remain functional during a propulsion shutdown, but loss of power while driving significantly increases the risk of a crash or injury.

Why the Recall Was Expanded

Ford previously issued recalls (24V-954 and 25SC4/25V-789) covering vehicles with battery cells manufactured before April 1, 2023.

However, continued investigation revealed that the issue extended beyond the originally identified production window.

After reviewing field reports and conducting battery tear-downs and manufacturing analysis, Ford determined that battery cells produced until additional supplier quality controls were implemented on October 10, 2024 may also be vulnerable.

As of February 10, 2026:

Two battery venting incidents were reported in Europe outside the original recall population.
Ford reports no known U.S. incidents, accidents, or injuries related to the expanded population.

Warning Signs Drivers May Experience

Drivers experiencing a battery failure may notice:

A red “Stop Safely Now” message displayed on the instrument cluster
Sudden loss of propulsion power
Warning alerts related to the hybrid system

If this message appears, drivers should safely pull over as soon as possible.

What Owners Should Do Right Now

Because a permanent repair is still being developed, Ford has issued interim safety instructions.

Owners are advised to:

Use “Auto EV” mode only
Limit battery charging to 80% capacity
Follow instructions provided in owner notification letters

Ford expects interim notification letters to be mailed beginning March 6, 2026, with additional letters sent once a final repair becomes available.

Recall Information

Manufacturer Recall Number: 25SC4
NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-091000
Expanded Recalls: 24V-954 and 25V-489
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 24,690

This recall expands on an earlier battery defect investigation affecting Ford plug-in hybrid vehicles. You can read our previous analysis here:

Battery Cell Problems In Ford Escape & Lincoln Corsair Plug-In Hybrids

The Ford Transit is one of the most widely used vans in California, serving everyone from small business owners and contractors to delivery fleets and shuttle operators. While it is commonly viewed as a commercial vehicle, many Ford Transit owners are surprised to learn that California Lemon Law protections may still apply, especially when serious safety defects or recalls are involved.

Recent recalls affecting 2023–2024 Ford Transit models and certain 2026 Ford E-Transit vehicles raise important questions about owner rights and warranty protections under California law.

Recent Ford Transit Recalls

2023–2024 Ford Transit – Engine Cross-Member Recall

Ford Recall Number: 26S04
NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-061

Ford has issued a safety recall affecting certain 2023–2024 Ford Transit vehicles related to the engine cross-member. According to the recall, a defect in the cross-member may compromise vehicle structural integrity. Depending on the severity, this type of defect can impact vehicle safety, drivability, and long-term reliability.

Structural or frame-related defects are particularly serious because they can:

Affect vehicle stability
Increase the risk of component failure
Reduce the vehicle’s overall safety in everyday driving conditions

2026 Ford E-Transit – High-Voltage Battery Hardware Recall

Ford Recall Number: 26S05
NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-062

Ford has also issued a recall impacting certain 2026 Ford E-Transit vehicles involving the high-voltage battery pack. The issue stems from missing washers on internal battery bolts, which may lead to:

High electrical resistance
Electrical arcing
Potential battery system malfunction

Defects involving high-voltage battery systems are especially concerning in electric vehicles, as they can affect vehicle performance, charging reliability, and overall safety.

Is the Ford Transit Considered a Commercial Vehicle Under California Lemon Law?

While the Ford Transit is often used for business purposes, commercial use alone does not automatically exclude a vehicle from California Lemon Law coverage.

Under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, commercial vehicles may qualify for Lemon Law protection if specific criteria are met.

Key Factors That Determine Eligibility

A Ford Transit may be covered under California Lemon Law if:

The vehicle is new or used but still under the manufacturer’s warranty
The defect substantially affects use, value, or safety
The manufacturer or dealer is unable to repair the defect after a reasonable number of attempts
The vehicle is registered in California

For commercial vehicles, two additional factors are especially important:

1. Vehicle Weight

Many Ford Transit models fall under 10,000 pounds GVWR, which keeps them within the scope of Lemon Law protections for commercial vehicles.

2. Fleet Size

Small business owners are often covered if they own or lease no more than five commercial vehicles registered in California. Larger fleets may be subject to different rules.

Why Recalls Matter in Lemon Law Claims

A recall alone does not automatically qualify a vehicle as a lemon. However, recalls can be strong supporting evidence when:

The defect is safety-related
Repairs are unsuccessful or temporary
The vehicle spends excessive time out of service
The issue continues after recall repairs are completed

For owners of 2023–2024 Ford Transit vans or 2026 E-Transit vehicles, repeated issues related to the engine crossmember or high-voltage battery system may strengthen a Lemon Law claim if the problem cannot be permanently resolved.

What Ford Transit Owners Should Do

If your Ford Transit or E-Transit is experiencing ongoing problems related to a recall or warranty defect:

Keep copies of all repair orders and service records
Document how long the vehicle is out of service
Note whether the same issue continues after repairs
Confirm whether the vehicle is still under factory warranty

California Lemon Law may entitle eligible owners to a buyback, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation, depending on the circumstances.

Final Thoughts

The Ford Transit is not automatically excluded from California Lemon Law protections simply because it is commonly used as a commercial vehicle. Owners of affected 2023–2024 Ford Transit vans and 2026 E-Transit vehicles should be aware that recurring defects — especially those involving structural components or high-voltage battery systems — may give rise to legal remedies under California law.

If recall-related problems persist despite multiple repair attempts, it may be time to explore your rights under the California Lemon Law.