Can You Sue a Manufacturer Under Lemon Law?

January 5, 2026
Frustrated car owner reviewing repair documents to sue a manufacturer under lemon law.

If your vehicle is constantly in the shop, you may have the right to sue a manufacturer under lemon law. This legal pathway ensures that car makers are held responsible for defective vehicles that cannot be repaired within a reasonable amount of time.


If you feel like you’re stuck in a loop of endless service center appointments, you are likely wondering if you can sue a manufacturer under lemon law. The short answer is yes. In fact, that is exactly what the law is there for. When a car maker sells a vehicle with a “substantial” defect and their authorized dealers can’t fix it after a few tries, the manufacturer has officially breached their warranty. At Pyramid Legal, we treat these cases as a broken promise.

When to Sue a Manufacturer Under Lemon Law

The tricky part of the legal process is the “reasonable attempts” rule. While the specifics can vary, most laws suggest that if a manufacturer has tried to fix the same safety issue twice, or a non-safety issue four times, you have grounds to take action. According to the California Department of Consumer Affairs, if your car is unusable for 30 days or more due to warranty repairs, you may be eligible to sue a manufacturer under lemon law for a full recovery.

Using a legal gavel and car keys to represent the right to sue a manufacturer under lemon law.

The Financial Benefits of a Lawsuit

Beyond the mechanical failure, there is a major financial advantage when you sue a manufacturer under lemon law. Under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, a winning consumer is often entitled to have the manufacturer pay their attorney’s fees. This levels the playing field, allowing you to go up against a massive corporation without out-of-pocket costs while seeking a full vehicle buyback or replacement.

Contact Pyramid Legal Today

Don’t let a car company’s size intimidate you. Many manufacturers count on owners getting frustrated and giving up. If you are ready to sue a manufacturer under lemon law to get the justice you deserve, reach out to Pyramid Legal. We understand the tactics these companies use and we are ready to fight for your rights. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and let’s get you out of that lemon and back on the road.