How Long Does the Lemon Law Process Take in California?

If you’ve purchased or leased a vehicle in California that turns out to be a lemon, you may be eager to pursue your rights under the state’s Lemon Law and get a refund or replacement vehicle.

But one common question many consumers have is, “How long will the Lemon Law process take?” The answer can vary depending on several factors, but understanding the typical timeline can help you set realistic expectations.

Lemon Law in California: Step-by-Step Timeline

The timeline for a California Lemon Law case depends on one major factor: Is the manufacturer willing to do the right thing, or will they drag this out? Some cases move quickly, while others require patience and persistence.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what to expect:

1. Gathering Your Documents (1-2 Weeks)

Before anything else, you need to get organized. The more detailed your records, the smoother this process will be. Think of it as building your case before you even step into the ring. Your attorney will need:

• Repair invoices and work orders
• Your purchase or lease agreement
• Warranty details
• Emails or letters between you and the dealership
• Proof of how long your car has been in the shop

A well-documented case can shave weeks off your claim.

2. Filing a Lemon Law Claim (2-4 Weeks)

Once your lemon law attorney has all the necessary paperwork, they’ll submit a formal claim to the manufacturer, spelling out:

• The defects affecting your car
• The number of repair attempts that failed
• How many days your car has been out of service
• The compensation you’re seeking (buyback, refund, or cash settlement)

3. Manufacturer Response & Negotiation (1-6 Months)

Now comes the tricky part. Some manufacturers respond quickly and settle within weeks. Others? Not so much. They might:

• Drag their feet, hoping you’ll give up
• Ask for more paperwork, just to stall the process
• Offer a lowball settlement instead of what you actually deserve

If the manufacturer cooperates, you could have your case wrapped up in a few months. If they’re stubborn? Buckle up—you might be in for a longer ride.

4. Filing a Lawsuit (6 Months – 2 Years, If Necessary)

If the manufacturer refuses to play fair, your lawyer might recommend filing a lawsuit. This means your case moves into litigation, which can take anywhere from six months to two years.

The bright side? Lawsuits often lead to bigger settlements, especially if the manufacturer is caught playing dirty.

5. Settlement or Trial (Varies)

Most lemon law cases settle before trial. But if the manufacturer keeps stonewalling, your case could end up in court, where a judge or jury will make the final call. While this can extend the process, it could also mean a higher payout for you.

What Slows Down a Lemon Law Case?

Some cases move smoothly. Others? Not so much. Here’s what can drag things out:

• The Complexity of the Case – If your car has multiple defects, expect pushback from the manufacturer.
• Manufacturer’s Tactics – Some settle fast, while others stall, hoping you’ll give up.
• Lawsuit vs. Settlement – If your case ends up in litigation, expect a longer wait.
• Court Schedules – If your case goes to trial, the court’s calendar could delay things.

How to Speed Up the Process

Want to avoid unnecessary delays? Here’s what you can do:

• Hire a Lemon Law Attorney Early – The right lawyer knows how to cut through manufacturer nonsense.
• Keep Detailed Records – The more organized you are, the easier it is to prove your case.
• Don’t wait to file your claim – The sooner you act, the sooner you’ll see results.

Let Mission Law Group Handle the Hassle

Let’s be real—dealing with a defective car is beyond frustrating. You didn’t sign up for endless repair appointments, unanswered calls, and legal headaches. That’s why Mission Law Group is here to take the burden off your shoulders.

We handle everything—from filing your claim to negotiating your settlement to going to court if necessary. Our mission? To get you the buyback, refund, or cash settlement you deserve—without all the stress.

You’ve already wasted enough time dealing with a car that doesn’t work. Let’s get you the compensation you deserve. Contact Mission Law Group today for a free consultation, and let’s get this resolved—once and for all.

*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each case is unique, and results may vary based on individual circumstances.