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    What California Drivers Can Expect to Recover Under the Lemon Law

    If you purchased or leased a vehicle that constantly breaks down or has recurring problems, you may qualify for relief under California’s Lemon Law, also known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act.

    But once you qualify, the next question becomes: What type of compensation can you receive under the Lemon Law?

    At BLVD Law Group APC, our Los Angeles Lemon Law attorneys help clients across California understand their options, and fight to maximize their recovery. Whether that means a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash settlement, our goal is simple: to get you the highest possible compensation for your defective vehicle.

    This page explains every compensation option available, how each works, and how BLVD Law Group APC can help you choose the best path forward.

    Understanding California’s Lemon Law Compensation

    California’s Lemon Law requires manufacturers to repurchase, replace, or compensate consumers for vehicles that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts.
    You may be eligible for one or more of the following compensation options:

    Full Vehicle Repurchase (Buyback)

    Vehicle Replacement

    Cash Settlement

    Reimbursement for Related Costs

    Attorney Fees and Costs Paid by the Manufacturer

    Each option has its own benefits and considerations. Our attorneys at BLVD Law Group APC review your situation in detail to determine which outcome best meets your needs.

    Option 1: Full Vehicle Repurchase (Buyback)

    To qualify for Lemon Law protection, your situation must meet several key criteria. These determine whether your car is legally considered a lemon.

    The most common Lemon Law remedy in California is a vehicle buyback or repurchase. In this scenario, the manufacturer takes back your defective vehicle and reimburses you for the money you spent on it.
    This includes:

    • Down payment and monthly payments
    • Registration and taxes
    • Loan payoff or lease payments
    • Incidental expenses like towing or rental cars

    The manufacturer may deduct a small amount called a “mileage offset,” which accounts for the miles driven before the first repair attempt for the defect.

    For most consumers, a buyback provides the cleanest and most complete form of compensation. It returns you to the financial position you were in before purchasing or leasing the defective vehicle.

    At BLVD Law Group APC, we calculate every eligible dollar of your refund to ensure you are not shortchanged by manufacturer math.

    Option 2: Vehicle Replacement

    The most common Lemon Law remedy in California is a vehicle buyback or repurchase. In this scenario, the manufacturer takes back your defective vehicle and reimburses you for the money you spent on it.
    This includes:

    1. Your Vehicle Must Have a Substantial Defect

    In some cases, consumers prefer to keep driving a vehicle from the same manufacturer but want a properly functioning one. Under California’s Lemon Law, you have the right to request a replacement vehicle of comparable value and model.
    When you choose a replacement, the manufacturer must:

    • Provide a new or defect-free vehicle of equal value
    • Cover tax, registration, and transfer costs
    • Pay for attorney fees and case costs
    • Ensure the replacement vehicle includes a new warranty

    This option is particularly beneficial for consumers who like their vehicle’s features or brand but simply want a safe, reliable replacement.

    Our attorneys help negotiate fair replacement terms, ensuring you receive a vehicle that truly matches what you paid for, without added costs or hidden disadvantages.

    Option 3: Cash Settlement

    A cash-and-keep settlement allows you to retain your vehicle while receiving financial compensation from the manufacturer.

    This option can be ideal if:

    • You have already paid off most of the car
    • You are comfortable keeping it despite the defect
    • The problem does not significantly affect safety or use
    • You want to avoid the hassle of returning or replacing the vehicle

    Cash settlements are negotiated based on the severity of the defect, repair attempts, and impact on the vehicle’s value and use. They often include:

    • Payment for diminished resale value
    • Compensation for inconvenience and repair time
    • Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses

    BLVD Law Group APC has extensive experience negotiating strong settlements that fairly reflect our clients’ losses. We handle all communication and negotiation directly with the manufacturer so you can focus on moving forward.

    Option 4: Reimbursement for Out-of-Pocket Costs

    In addition to major compensation options like refunds and replacements, the Lemon Law allows you to recover incidental damages, expenses you had to pay because of your defective vehicle.

    This can include:

    • Rental car costs while your vehicle was being repaired
    • Towing and transportation fees
    • Uber, Lyft, or public transit expenses
    • Repair or diagnostic fees paid out-of-pocket
    • Lost wages for time spent dealing with repairs

    These costs add up quickly, and our attorneys ensure they are included in your final recovery.

    Option 5: Attorney Fees and Costs

    One of the strongest protections in California’s Lemon Law is that the manufacturer pays all attorney fees and legal costs, not you.

    That means when you work with BLVD Law Group APC, you pay nothing out of pocket to file or pursue your claim.

    This rule ensures that consumers have access to skilled legal representation without worrying about the cost. It also encourages manufacturers to resolve valid claims quickly rather than risk paying additional legal expenses.

    Choosing the Right Compensation Option for You

    Every Lemon Law case is unique. The right compensation option depends on several factors, including:

    The type and severity of the defect

    The vehicle’s age and mileage

    Your financial situation and loan balance

    Your personal preference to keep or return the vehicle

    Manufacturer response and negotiation behavior

    At BLVD Law Group APC, we walk you through each option, explain the potential outcomes, and tailor a strategy based on your goals. Whether you want your money back, a replacement car, or a quick cash settlement, we make sure your rights are protected and your compensation is maximized.

    Professional man with beard in blue suit, patterned tie, and silver watch, arms crossed.

    About Us

    Compensation under California’s Lemon Law can be complex—but attorney Robert Kaladzhyan makes it simple. At BLVD Law Group APC, Robert personally evaluates each case to calculate the full extent of what you’re owed, from refunds and replacements to out-of-pocket costs. Backed by a support team that handles every detail efficiently, Robert brings focused legal advocacy to every client he serves.

    How We Maximize Your Lemon Law Recovery

    Founder Robert Kaladzhyan built BLVD Law Group APC on the principle that every client deserves full and fair compensation. His background gives him a unique advantage. Before becoming an attorney, Robert worked in nearly every role within a law firm, including case management and insurance defense.

    That experience gave him deep insight into how manufacturers and corporations operate, and how to beat them at their own game.

    When you hire our firm, we:

    Review your vehicle and repair history to identify every qualifying issue.
    Calculate the full value of your claim, including hidden costs.
    Negotiate aggressively with the manufacturer for a top-value resolution.
    Handle all legal communication so you don’t have to.
    Take the case to trial if the manufacturer refuses to pay fairly.

    Our approach combines compassion with precision and proven legal strategy. We fight relentlessly to ensure that no dollar is left on the table.

    Factors That Affect Your Compensation Amount

    Not all Lemon Law cases are equal. The amount of compensation you receive depends on several key factors:

    Repair Attempts

    The number and nature of repair visits can increase claim value.

    Severity of the Defect

    Safety-related issues often yield higher settlements.

    Time Without the Vehicle

    Extended downtime adds to compensation.

    Manufacturer Conduct

    Unreasonable delays or bad-faith actions may increase damages.

    Mileage Offset

    A small deduction may apply for usage before the first repair.

    Our attorneys evaluate every detail to ensure the manufacturer’s offer reflects your true losses and inconvenience.

    Why You Shouldn’t Accept the Manufacturer’s First Offer

    Manufacturers often make lowball offers early in the process, hoping you’ll accept a quick but insufficient payout. They might promise a partial refund or credit while avoiding full responsibility.
    Accepting such an offer could forfeit your right to the larger compensation you’re entitled to.
    When you have BLVD Law Group APC representing you, the manufacturer knows you mean business. Our reputation for thorough preparation and courtroom readiness compels automakers to take claims seriously and offer fair settlements from the start.

    Testimonials From Our Clients

    “Robert and Simon at Blvd Law handled my lemon law case with outstanding results. From the moment I stepped foot in their office, the process was smooth and stress free. They kept me informed at every step and got me a full refund on my car. I highly recommend Blvd law to anyone dealing with a problematic car.”

    – Arm

    We are proud to represent California consumers who simply want fairness, honesty, and results, and we deliver on that promise every time.

    FAQs

    Most Lemon Law claims resolve within 90 to 120 days.

    Usually not. We can refer you to a tax professional if needed.

    The manufacturer takes ownership and may mark the title as a Lemon Law Buyback.

    Yes, and we handle all negotiations on your behalf.

    Most cases settle out of court. We’ll go to trial if needed, at no cost to you.

    Why Los Angeles Drivers Choose BLVD Law Group APC

    Los Angeles drivers face some of the toughest driving conditions in the country. Long commutes, crowded highways, and high vehicle dependence mean that a defective car isn’t just inconvenient, it’s life-disrupting.

    That’s why drivers across Downtown LA, Glendale, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Inglewood, and Long Beach turn to BLVD Law Group APC for Lemon Law representation.

    We know the local dealerships, manufacturer representatives, and legal nuances that affect California consumers. Whether your case involves a luxury car, electric vehicle, or everyday commuter model, we have the experience to secure the best possible compensation.

    Contact Our Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorneys

    If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you deserve full and fair compensation, not the minimum amount a manufacturer wants to pay.

    At BLVD Law Group APC, we help California consumers understand their options and recover every dollar they’re entitled to under the law. Whether that means a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement, we’ll guide you through the process and fight for the best possible result.

    Our consultations are free, our process is simple, and you pay no fees unless we win.

    Call our Los Angeles office today or complete our quick online form to schedule your free Lemon Law case evaluation.

    When life gives you lemons, BLVD Law Group APC gets you paid.

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    See Our Lemon Law Resources