Under the California Lemon Law, you have legal protection if you purchase or lease a new or Certified Preowned (CPO) vehicle with significant defects that the dealer or manufacturer has been unable to fix within a reasonable number of tries.
However, while some defects are mere inconveniences, others can pose significant safety risks. Here are some of the most dangerous vehicle issues that the Lemon Law typically covers.
Brake system failures
Malfunctions with the brakes can severely impact your ability to stop the vehicle safely. Look out for these signs of brake issues:
- Squeaking or grinding noises
- Soft or spongy brake pedal
- Vibrations when braking
- Vehicle pulling to one side
If you notice any of these problems, bring in your vehicle for inspection immediately. Brake failure is one of the leading causes of death in car accidents.
Steering issues
Steering issues in vehicles can be particularly dangerous because they directly affect your ability to control the vehicle. Common steering-related defects include power steering failure, steering wheel lock-ups and poor alignment.
These problems can make it difficult to turn or maintain a straight path on the road. In turn, there is an increased risk of losing control or drifting out of your lane, especially at high speeds.
Airbag malfunctions
Airbags can significantly reduce the risk of injury and death in the event of a collision. However, they can be extremely dangerous when they malfunction.
Failure to deploy is the biggest risk as it takes away your protection in an accident. A defective airbag can also deploy unexpectedly, which can startle you and cause a crash.
Never ignore safety issues
Don’t wait for potential safety risks to become real dangers. Once you notice something wrong with your vehicle, arrange for repairs right away.
If your vehicle is still under warranty and has gone through multiple failed repair attempts, consider consulting a lemon law attorney. They can help you seek compensation for your damages, such as out-of-pocket repair fees, rental car expenses and potentially even the cost of a replacement vehicle.