"Certified" Vehicles and the California Lemon Law

Many people think that the California lemon law only applies to new cars. And it is true that in many cases, used cars are sold in California on an "as-is" basis. However, this is not always the case. If you have seen or heard car companies advertise "certified" or "pre-owned" cars, you probably know this is another term for used but with the caveat that they have gone through a rigorous inspection process before being resold by a dealer. In addition, these certified-used vehicles are sold with an extended manufacturers warranty.

This is more than just a sales technique -- it also means that cars purchased that are advertised in this way are eligible for a lemon law case if a significant problem arises. This is because these cars typically come with a “certified" limited warranty -- similar to the warranty of a new vehicle. This differentiates “certified" cars from used cars bought through used car lots or private dealers and offers the consumer protection to hire lemon law lawyers in California and seek fair compensation under the Beverly-Song Consumer Warranty Act.

If you think about it, this makes perfect sense. The dealers and car companies are using the fact that these cars have been “certified" by their mechanics as justification for selling them as the same quality as new cars fresh off the lot. If this is the case, shouldn’t they back this confidence up by treating the cars as new if there is a recurring problem after the car is sold?

Unfortunately, many people are under the impression that the lemon law in California only applies to new cars, and car dealers and manufacturers will use this information to avoid fairly compensating consumers for defective products. Unless the individual consults with Los Angeles lemon law lawyers, they might never know what their rights are under the law.

This is why it is so important for consumers who are dealing with a defective car -- new or used -- to consult with the California Lemon Law Center. Our team of expert lemon law attorneys in Southern California and throughout the state knows the law and wants to give you a free consultation to see if you have a case.

This is why it is so important for consumers who are dealing with a defective car -- new or used -- to consult with the California Lemon Law Center. Our team of expert lemon law attorneys in Southern California and throughout the state knows the law and wants to give you a free consultation to see if you have a case.