Prevailing Through Endurance

California lemon law: how to avoid buying a defective automobile

On Behalf of | Dec 2, 2021 | Lemon Law

When you spend money on a new or used vehicle, you want the most value for your investment. However, many unscrupulous dealers in California are waiting to take advantage of those that need a vehicle. When dealers have a defective automobile on their lot, their top priority may be to get rid of the car at all costs.

Most of us do not know how to determine if a vehicle is defective. As consumers, we lack the skill and training to spot hidden defects. We must place our trust in the dealer and hope that we have not purchased a lemon.

What if you knew what to look for when buying a car?

When you know what to look for, you might be able to spot at least some defects before putting your finances at risk. The first step is to arrange a test drive ahead of your purchase.

Here is what to look for during your test drive.

  •       Steering. If the vehicle drifts or pulls in one direction over others, it may have steering damage.
  •       Braking. Test the brakes of the vehicle before entering traffic. If they do not respond correctly, they may be defective.
  •       Engine. If you notice sluggish engine performance or excessive emissions (smoke, etc.), it may indicate a defect.

You can identify some defects by examining the vehicle before going for a test drive. For example, if you see that the tires are wearing in an uneven pattern, it could indicate a suspension, alignment or steering defect.

With the right approach, you can avoid buying a lemon. If it is too late and you have already purchased a defective automobile, consider increasing your knowledge of California lemon laws.

Final word. Never buy an automobile without a warranty, or you could lose your right to a remedy.