There’s something special about owning a Harley-Davidson. And you buy one because you want the experience, not to become a regular visitor at the service department.

When recurring Milwaukee-Eight engine problems happen, you might wonder, when does a Harley-Davidson defect become a California Lemon Law case?

If you’re dealing with ongoing problems with a qualifying motorcycle purchased or leased in California, here is how the state’s Lemon Law protects you.

What Are Some Milwaukee-Eight Engine Problems?

Your motorcycle does not have to stop running to qualify as a defect for a Harley-Davidson Lemon Law claim. For example, recurring overheating can make riding uncomfortable or unsafe. Persistent oil leaks can create mechanical concerns and affect other components. 

When you have engine performance problems, that can affect acceleration, drivability, and your overall ability to enjoy the motorcycle. Some of these problems may include:

• Excessive engine vibration
• Oil leaks or excessive oil consumption
• Overheating
• Unusual engine noises
• Loss of power
• Stalling
• Starting problems
• Check engine warnings
• Performance or drivability issues
• Repeated mechanical or electrical failures

Keep in mind that not every mechanical complaint will qualify as a Lemon Law defect. A minor issue that is quickly repaired is not the same as a serious problem that keeps returning despite multiple repair attempts.

California Lemon Law Can Apply to Motorcycles

Many people think that California’s Lemon Law only applies to cars and trucks. However, motorcycles can also receive protection under California’s Lemon Law when they meet the applicable requirements.

The law can apply when the manufacturer’s warranty covers a vehicle and a defect develops that substantially affects its use, value, or safety.

Your Harley-Davidson does not have to be completely undrivable before you ask whether you have a potential claim. A recurring engine defect that affects the motorcycle’s performance, safety, reliability, or value may lead to a case.

How Many Times Does Harley-Davidson Have to Try to Fix It?

California Lemon Law does not say that every motorcycle automatically becomes a lemon after a specific number of visits. In these cases, the law looks at whether the manufacturer has had a reasonable number of opportunities to repair the warranty problem. 

Under certain circumstances, California law creates a presumption that a reasonable number of attempts have occurred.

If you’re concerned about a possible Lemon Law claim, remember to keep your paperwork.

Every repair order can help establish what was wrong with the motorcycle, when you reported the problem, what Harley-Davidson or the dealership attempted to do about it, and whether the problem continued.

What If the Problem Keeps Coming Back?

Repeated repairs do not mean the manufacturer has done something wrong. But if a substantial warranty defect continues despite reasonable repair attempts, California Lemon Law may provide some help.

Depending on the situation, those Lemon Law compensation options may include a replacement motorcycle or a repurchase, along with other potentially recoverable amounts.

Don’t Let Your Harley Become a Permanent Resident at the Dealership

If your Milwaukee-Eight engine keeps overheating, leaking oil, losing power, vibrating excessively, or developing another serious recurring defect, you should consider speaking with a California Lemon Law attorney.

At BLVD Law, we understand that your motorcycle isn’t just another vehicle. You’ve invested your money, your time, and your excitement into owning it. If a recurring defect has turned that experience into a frustrating cycle of dealership visits, we can help you understand your rights and your options under California Lemon Law.

You should not have to keep wondering whether the next repair will finally fix the problem. Let BLVD Law take a closer look at what you’ve been dealing with and help you take those next steps. Schedule a consultation today.