California's New Lemon Law and Which Manufacturers It Applies To

As of May 2, 2025, several major automakers have opted into California’s new Lemon Law procedures under Assembly Bill 1755 (AB 1755) and Senate Bill 26 (SB 26). This opt-in is a five-year commitment that burdens California consumers while allowing manufacturers to skirt their responsibilities.

What Is AB 1755?

AB 1755, effective January 1, 2025, introduces significant changes to California's Lemon Law, including:

  • Mandatory Mediation: Before extensive litigation, manufacturers and consumers must engage in mediation within 150 days to resolve disputes.

  • Pre-Litigation Notice: Consumers must provide written notice to manufacturers at least 30 days before filing a lawsuit seeking civil penalties.

  • Streamlined Discovery: Early exchange of key documents and limited depositions are required to expedite the process.

  • Strict Timelines: Manufacturers have 30 days to respond to a consumer's repurchase or replacement request and must complete the transaction within 60 days.

  • Statute of Limitations: AB 1755 sets a new deadline for filing lemon law lawsuits. A consumer must file within one year after the vehicle’s express warranty expires, but no later than six years from the original delivery date—whichever comes first, unless certain tolling exceptions apply.

Manufacturers That Have Opted In

The California Department of Consumer Affairs' Arbitration Certification Program (ACP) maintains a list of manufacturers that have opted into the new procedures. While the official list is updated annually, the following manufacturers have publicly indicated their participation:

  • Ford Motor Company

  • General Motors

  • Stellantis / FCA (including Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, and Ram brands)

  • Hyundai

  • Kia

  • Jaguar Land Rover

  • Maserati

  • Mercedes Benz

  • Nissan

  • Subaru

These manufacturers have committed to the new process, which substantially harms California consumer’s rights.

How to Proceed

  • Document Issues: Keep detailed records of all repairs and communications with the manufacturer. While at the dealership, ensure that all of your complaints are noted in the work order that you receive when you first drop off your vehicle.

  • Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: While the law doesn't specify an exact number, generally, if the same problem persists after four or more repair attempts, or if the vehicle is out of service for more than 30 days cumulatively, it may qualify as a "lemon."

  • Monitor Symptoms: Any new engine noises, warning lights, or loss of power? Stop driving immediately and seek inspection and let the dealership know.

  • Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney, like Valero Law: If repairs fail, or if you experience repeated issues, you may be entitled to relief under California law. Remedies can include a repurchase of the vehicle or a cash settlement.

For the most current information on participating manufacturers and detailed procedures, visit the California Department of Consumer Affairs' Arbitration Certification Program

If you’re in California and you own a defective vehicle and you have questions regarding that or the new lemon law, fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you immediately!

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