Starting January 1, 2025, California’s Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, will undergo a significant change that impacts the lemon law deadline for filing a Lemon Law lawsuit. This update alters the rights of California consumers and makes it more important than ever to be aware of your legal options if you believe you have purchased or leased a defective vehicle.

What’s Changing?

The most notable change involves the deadline—or statute of limitations—for filing a Lemon Law lawsuit. Previously, consumers had four years after the expiration of the applicable express warranty to file a lawsuit. Beginning in 2025, this will change to:

One year after the applicable express warranty expires, but
No more than six years from the date the vehicle was originally delivered to the buyer or lessee.

Why Is This Change Significant?

This shift places stricter limitations on when consumers can take legal action against a manufacturer, particularly for when defects become apparent later in the vehicle’s life. This revision drastically shortens the window to file a lawsuit for many consumers, depending on the length of their warranty. For example:

If your vehicle has a 5-year/60,000-mile warranty, you now only have 1 year after that warranty expires to bring a claim, instead of 4 years.
If your defect arises later in your vehicle’s life, you may still be barred from filing a claim if more than 6 years have passed since the vehicle’s delivery.

This could mean that some consumers may lose their ability to recover for legitimate vehicle defects if they delay in identifying and addressing their claims.

For example, if you bought a new 2023 Ford Bronco, one of the warranties you received was a 5 year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty. If you experienced multiple powertrain problems, you would have to file your lawsuit before the 6 year anniversary of your purchase (1 year after the warranty expired, but no more than 6 years from purchase)

If you purchased a new 2023 Kia Sportage, one of the warranties you received was a 10 year / 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. If you experienced multiple powertrain problems, you would have to file your lawsuit before the 6 year anniversary of your purchase (even though the powertrain warranty has not even expired yet). (sucks, I know.)

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

The new deadline is a double-edged sword for consumers. On one hand, it places increased urgency on identifying defects and pursuing legal claims promptly. On the other, it reduces flexibility, especially for consumers who may not immediately notice or experience the full impact of a defect until after several years of ownership.

For consumers who want to protect their rights, it is essential to take action as soon as they notice an issue with their vehicle. Waiting too long, even if the defect seems minor at first, could mean losing the opportunity to hold the manufacturer accountable.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Vehicle Is a Lemon?

Given these changes, here are some tips for navigating the new rules effectively:

Act Quickly: As soon as you notice recurring problems or defects in your vehicle, document them thoroughly. Keep all service records, repair invoices, and communications with the dealer or manufacturer.
Understand Your Warranty: Know the length and terms of your express warranty. This information will determine the deadline for filing a Lemon Law claim.
Consult a Lemon Law Attorney Early: Filing a Lemon Law claim can be complicated, and the new deadlines make timing even more critical. A skilled attorney can help you assess your case, navigate the legal process, and ensure you meet the new deadlines.

Why This Change Could Benefit Manufacturers

While the change tightens deadlines for consumers, it also limits the manufacturer’s liability exposure by reducing the timeframe in which claims can be brought. This gives manufacturers greater predictability in defending Lemon Law cases and may even reduce the number of lawsuits filed overall.

Final Thoughts

The changes to California’s Lemon Law coming in January 2025 represent a significant shift for consumers and their ability to hold manufacturers accountable for defective vehicles. If you’re experiencing issues with your car, don’t wait—the shortened timeline to file a lawsuit makes early action more crucial than ever.

As a California Lemon Law attorney, I’m here to help you understand your rights and take timely action to get the resolution you deserve. Contact me today for a free consultation if you believe your vehicle is a lemon. Together, we can make sure you don’t miss your chance to fight for justice under this new law.

If you’re facing car problems and suspect your vehicle may be a lemon, contact our experienced Lemon Law attorneys today for a free consultation. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you seek justice in your lemon law case.

Free Quiz: click HERE

Phone: 855-965-3666

Free Case Evaluation: Email the purchase contract and all of the repair records to Info@calemonlawattorney.com

Disclaimer: This blog article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For accurate and up-to-date information regarding the lemon law in your jurisdiction, consult with a qualified attorney.