The descriptive term ‘lemon’ applies equally to a defunct or malfunctioning car as to a citrus fruit. The origin of this slang term is obscure. However, the fact remains that in a world on the move, a recalcitrant or basically defective automobile is something of a bane. Owning a ‘lemon’ is degrading socially and most definitely a major irritant.

In California, lemon laws cover anything mechanical, as do the federal lemon laws. The federal Lemon Law also provides that the warranter may be obligated to pay your attorney fees if you prevail in a lemon law suit, as do most state lemon laws.

The California Lemon law applies to many products, but has preeminence in the context of automobiles. California is one of the most motored and automobile-oriented states in America, and it should come as no surprise that it has definite laws concerning defective automobiles. The California Lemon Law protects consumers from the consequences of a purchase or lease of a defective car. The onus of a customer lies largely on the manufacturer.

California’s Lemon Law – also known as consumer warranty law – specifies that the manufacturer carry a high degree of responsibility for sold products. The law is oriented more towards the manufacture and sale of motor vehicles. It applies equally to cars, RVs, trucks and motorboats. Vehicle parts are also included under the law. If they malfunction while under warranty, the manufacturer is held liable for repairs. If a reasonable number of repair attempts do not solve the problem, Californian Lemon Law specifies that the defective product(s) must be replaced.

In California, the buyer or renter of a car it is protected by a specific set of laws that exist to ensure truth in lending and prevent deceptive practices. They guarantee that in applicable cases the defective car will be replaced and even incurred legal fees refunded. Their existence also means that the basic safety of the driver and passengers is enhanced, since greater care is taken in the manufacturing and leasing-out of cars.