Does California Lemon Law Apply to Leased Vehicles?
What’s the issue
Many Californians assume that lemon law protections only apply if you purchased your car. But leased vehicles are just as prone to serious mechanical problems — engine failures, transmission issues, electrical defects — that leave drivers stranded and frustrated. The good news: California law doesn’t draw a line between purchased and leased vehicles when it comes to protection.
Allegations
Auto manufacturers sometimes argue that lessees have fewer rights because they don’t hold title to the car. That’s not true in California. The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, better known as the California Lemon Law, extends its protections to both buyers and lessees of new vehicles.
Recall/TSB
Even if your vehicle has been subject to a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) or recall, the fact that you are leasing it does not reduce your rights. The critical factor is whether the defect arises during the warranty period and whether the dealer has been given a reasonable opportunity to fix it.
Symptoms
A leased vehicle may qualify as a lemon if:
The defect substantially impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle.
The issue appears within the manufacturer’s warranty period.
The manufacturer or its dealer fails to repair it after a reasonable number of attempts (often four or more for the same problem, or if the car is out of service for over 30 days).
Common leased-vehicle complaints include repeated transmission failures, persistent check-engine lights, electrical system malfunctions, or chronic brake problems. Especially L87 6.2 GM engine defects, as well.
How to Proceed
Document Issues: Keep detailed records of all repairs and communications with the dealership. Make sure every complaint is written on the work order when you drop off your vehicle.
Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: If the same problem continues after multiple repairs, or your car spends 30+ days at the shop, it may qualify as a lemon.
Monitor Symptoms: Any new noises, warning lights, or loss of power? Stop driving and notify the dealer immediately.
Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney, like Valero Law: If repairs fail, you may be entitled to a full lease buyback or a cash settlement. In California, manufacturers must pay your attorney’s fees if you win — meaning there is no cost to you.
Call to Action
If your leased vehicle in California has recurring problems the dealer cannot fix, you may be entitled to relief under the California Lemon Law. Remedies include:
Lease termination with no penalty
Refund of monthly lease payments already made
Reimbursement of incidental costs (towing, rental cars, etc.)
A possible cash settlement
Valero Law, APC takes all lemon law cases on a contingency basis — you pay nothing unless we win. For a free California Lemon Law case evaluation, call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 today.