Used Car Warranty Law

California does not have a used car lemon law per se. The consumer does, however, have certain protection, such as a requirement that a used car dealer make a reasonable inspection of a used vehicle for defects that would make the car a menace on the highway. The used car dealer is also required by law not to make any untrue or misleading statements in advertising a vehicle for sale; additionally, he is required by law to disclose the known history of the car as a rental car, taxicab or salvage vehicle. It is also unlawful for a licensed used car dealer to deliver a vehicle to a customer that does not meet all the equipment requirements of the vehicle code.
A seller of used vehicles makes an implied warranty that any vehicle he sells to you is fit for the intended purpose or use to the average consumer. This is called an "implied warranty of merchantability". It is, however, very limited in time, so do not delay in bringing any problem to the attention of the dealer. Be specific as to the nature of your problem and make sure all your complaints are well documented, especially the conversations.
If the sale of a used vehicle is accompanied with a service contract, that will be an advantage in extending the warranty of the vehicle and will serve as a basis for claiming reimbursement for damages incurred even in some cases attorney fees.
If you are successful in a claim under the warranty you may be entitled to obtain a refund of your purchase price minus an off set for reasonable use of the vehicle in the mean time.
If a used car dealer concealed important information about the used car, which he knew or should have known, then you may be entitled to undo the sales contract.
If you would like an e-mail opinion whether you may qualify to get your money back from the purchase of your vehicle, then please complete the questionnaire, take advantage of the FREE e-mail consultation, or call and speak to an attorney at our office for a free telephone consultation at (949) 251-1377.