Is Your Nissan A Lemon?

When it comes to purchasing a new vehicle, we all expect a smooth and trouble-free driving experience. Unfortunately, many Nissan owners who purchased vehicles between 2016 and 2023 have been facing a myriad of issues, ranging from transmission problems to engine malfunctions. If you find yourself stuck with a lemon, it’s important to know that you have rights under the Lemon Law. In this article, we will explore the common problems faced by Nissan owners during this period and highlight the importance of seeking legal help from experienced lemon law attorneys like Sotera Anderson.

Transmission Woes: Jerking, Shifting, and Slipping

One of the most frequent complaints among Nissan owners is related to transmission issues. Some vehicles experience jerking or hesitation when shifting gears, while others face problems with slipping transmissions. These issues can make driving unpredictable and potentially dangerous. If you have been experiencing similar problems with your Nissan vehicle, it’s essential to take action and explore your legal options.

Air Conditioner, Coolant, and Engine Troubles

Another set of common issues affecting Nissan vehicles manufactured between 2016 and 2023 includes problems with the air conditioning system, coolant leaks, and engine malfunctions. Owners have reported a range of cooling system problems, from weak or inefficient air conditioning to coolant leaks leading to overheating. In some cases, the engine may consume excessive amounts of oil, leading to potential damage and increased maintenance costs. These issues can not only cause inconvenience but also compromise the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

Lemon Law Rights: Understanding Your Protection

Fortunately, lemon laws exist to protect consumers who find themselves dealing with persistent vehicle defects. Lemon laws vary from state to state, but they generally provide remedies for consumers who have purchased a defective vehicle that cannot be adequately repaired within a reasonable number of attempts. These laws typically cover vehicles that experience problems within a certain timeframe, such as within the first few years of ownership or before a specific mileage threshold is reached.

 

If you believe your Nissan vehicle qualifies as a lemon, it is crucial to consult with an experienced lemon law attorney who can guide you through the process. California Lemon Law Attorney Sotera Anderson specializes in helping consumers navigate these complex legal matters and fight for their rights. Her expertise and dedication to client satisfaction make her an excellent choice for anyone seeking legal assistance in lemon law cases.

Why Choose Lemon Law Attorney Sotera Anderson?

When facing the frustration and financial burden of dealing with a lemon vehicle, having a skilled attorney on your side can make a significant difference. Lemon Law Attorney Sotera Anderson possesses the necessary knowledge and experience to navigate the legal complexities of lemon law cases. She also used to represent the manufacturers.  With her guidance, you can ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

By reaching out to Sotera Anderson, you gain a trusted advocate who will fight tirelessly on your behalf. She will work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve, which may include a vehicle replacement, refund, or financial settlement.

 

If you are a Nissan owner who purchased a vehicle between 2016 and 2023 and have experienced persistent problems such as transmission jerking or slipping, air conditioning malfunctions, coolant leaks, engine issues, or other defects, it’s crucial to understand that you have lemon law rights. Seeking legal help from a knowledgeable attorney like Sotera Anderson can significantly increase your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Don’t let a lemon vehicle weigh you down. Take action today and contact Lemon Law Attorney Sotera Anderson to protect your rights and fight for a resolution.

Free Quiz click HERE

Phone: 855-965-3666

Free Case Evaluation: Email purchase contract and repair records to Info@calemonlawattorney.com

 

 

Lemon Law 101: Know Your Rights!

Hey, there California! I’m Sotera Anderson your trusted Lemon Law attorney in California. In this article, I’m going to give you a crash course on the Lemon Law and empower you with the knowledge you need to protect your rights as a consumer.

Did you know that the law in California surrounding lemons is a powerful consumer protection law designed to safeguard you when you buy or lease a faulty vehicle?

Lemon Law Basics

  • It applies to both new and Certified Pre-Owned vehicles
  • If your vehicle has persistent defects that the manufacturer (through its dealer) can’t fix, you may be entitled to a refund, replacement, or cash compensation.

Signs your vehicle might be a lemon

  • Frequent breakdowns or malfunctions
  • Repairs that don’t solve the underlying problem
  • Safety-related issues that pose a risk
  • Significant loss of value due to defects

Steps to take if you suspect a lemon

  1. Document everything: Keep records of repairs, invoices, and correspondence with the manufacturer and dealer.
  2. Notify the manufacturer and dealer: Inform them about the persistent defects and give them a reasonable opportunity to fix the issues.
  3. Consult with an experienced attorney in the lemon field: An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.

Time limitations

  • In California, there are specific time limits for filing a Lemon Law claim.  The deadlines can get complicated to calculate so contact Attorney Sotera Anderson for help in calculating the deadlines.
  • Don’t delay! Act promptly to protect your rights.

Why hire a Lemon Law attorney

  • An attorney specializes in Lemon Law cases and understands the complexities of the legal system.
  • They’ll fight for the compensation you deserve, ensuring you’re not taken advantage of by the manufacturer.
  • Manufacturer pays your attorney fees and costs

Remember, knowledge is power! If you suspect your vehicle is a lemon, don’t hesitate to take action. Reach out to attorney Sotera Anderson to explore your options. Together, we’ll fight for your rights and hold manufacturers accountable. Stay informed, stay empowered!

That’s it for today’s Lemon Law crash course. I hope you found this information helpful. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out.

 

Check out our website for more information

Click here for a free lemon law quiz to see if your vehicle might qualify

Chevy Silverado: Is Your Car a Lemon?

The Chevy Silverado has been making a name for itself. And it’s not a good one. While the truck remains popular among consumers, over the years, the Silverado has suffered numerous problems, from transmission issues to air conditioning defects. According to Consumer Reports and other consumer organizations, the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 is notorious for major engine and reliability issues. This includes full engine replacement or rebuild, cylinder head-related issues, head gasket failures, turbocharger or supercharger problems, as well as timing chain or timing belt problems.

There were four recalls for 2021 Silverados (and Sierras), but none resolved any of these engine issues. Recalls of this model are nothing new. In fact, more than 300,000 2017-2019 Silverado and Sierra trucks with the 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine were recalled.

If you are experiencing these or other recurring issues with your Chevy Silverado truck while still under the auto warranty and have been unable to get them resolved by your car dealership, your truck may be a lemon. The good news is you have recourse through consumer protection laws known as the California Lemon Laws.

These laws allow you to reach a settlement with the manufacturer with one of several possible outcomes:

  • Buyback—The manufacturer refunds you for the purchase of your car and takes possession of the vehicle. You can then use the money to purchase any make or model of car you want
  • Cash and keep—You receive cash for your troubles (less than the original purchase price) but keep the vehicle.
  • A replacement vehicle—Sometimes a manufacturer will agree to replace your lemon with a comparable vehicle, but this outcome is rare.

Having a California law firm like the Law Offices of Sotera L. Anderson, a PLC, who specialize in the lemon Law, in your corner (at no cost to you, by the way) can help you navigate the legal process, handle the paperwork, and negotiate the absolute best offer for your Chevy Silverado lemon that’s right for you.

Think you have a claim? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney, here or call 1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050 or email your purchase contract and repair records to Info@calemonlawattorney.com. 

 

Filing a Lemon Car Law Claim in California? Why You Shouldn’t Go It Alone

We’re living in an era where information is just the click of a YouTube video or Wikipedia link away. Who needs experts these days, right?  Wrong! Especially if you were sold a lemon car and want to file a lemon car law claim in California.

Lately, we have been hearing from a lot of consumers who say they contacted the manufacturer directly to ask for a buyback of their lemon car but didn’t know how to negotiate the best settlement and were unhappy with the buyback offer from the manufacturer. So, they turn to us for help. But often it’s too late.

A cautionary tale of someone who thought they knew the lemon car law and could do it on their own

A woman contacted us the other day who is in the middle of filing a lemon law claim on her own. The manufacturer offered a buyback but is forcing her to turn in the vehicle at a location that is far away from her local area. Clearly, the manufacturer is trying to take advantage of her and making the process difficult in hopes that she might drop the claim.

Unfortunately, we were unable to get involved in her claim at this point in the process because the manufacturer has already offered her a buyback at a reasonable price. Had she worked with us initially, we would have stipulated that the manufacturer accept surrender of the vehicle at a convenient and mutually agreeable location. She now must wait at least 30 days, then we might be able to assist in negotiating acceptable settlement terms. But maybe not.

If you are considering filing a lemon law claim in California, you’re better off working with a lemon law lawyer from the start rather than trying to handle it on your own. Here’s why:

Lemon car law lawyers are free to the consumer

The fact that you don’t have to pay attorney’s fees makes it a no-brainer decision to work with a lemon law attorney. If you qualify for a settlement, California Lemon Laws stipulate that consumers receive 100% of the claim settlement and the auto manufacturer pays all attorneys’ fees and costs, not you.

But…if we get involved with your claim after the manufacturer has offered you a buyback, the manufacturer might not pay our legal fees, which means you would have to. So, best to contact us before you do anything.

We know the lemon car law

Even though the California Lemon Laws are consumer-friendly, the process can be time-consuming and confusing for the do-it-yourselfer. As lemon law experts, we are experienced at negotiating a better deal for the consumer than they can get on their own. We can also make sure lemon car owners are not signing away their rights or being taken advantage of by the manufacturer.

We know the players and how to play the game

Before representing consumers and their rights, lemon law attorney Sotera Anderson used to represent the auto manufacturers. She still maintains good relationships with them and can negotiate a better settlement for consumers. We know how the law applies in each specific case, how to hold the manufacturer accountable, what they are willing to do, and how much they are willing to compensate the vehicle owner within the law.

Stress-free settlement

Like many DIY projects, the lemon law claim process can be extremely stressful if you are inexperienced. With a seasoned lemon law lawyer in your corner, they can take on the stress of dealing with the manufacturer, so you don’t have to.

Think you have a claim? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney, here or call  1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050.

Do You Have a Winning Lemon Car Case?

Your new car has been giving you nothing but trouble. Despite numerous attempts to resolve the issue with the dealer or auto manufacturer, the problem persists. You are at the end of your rope…out of time and money for more repairs. The big question now is: Do you have a winning lemon law case?

The answer to that question is another question: should you seek the help of lemon law lawyers?

Many lemon car owners who read the California Lemon Laws (called the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) look at the list of criteria for a vehicle to be deemed a lemon and decide on their own that their situation doesn’t meet the requirements. They give up too early and too easily. That can be a big mistake. Even if you think your car doesn’t meet all the criteria for a lemon or your warranty has expired, you should still contact a lemon law attorney to fully understand the process and your options.

What are the lemon law requirements in California?

The actual law is somewhat extensive, but paraphrased below are the basic requirements for a vehicle to be considered a lemon in California:

  • The vehicle was purchased or leased in California. Members of the military who are serving in California or residents of California can file no matter where they purchased or leased the vehicle.
  • The vehicle is covered by the manufacturer’s original warranty or is within six months past expiration.
  • The vehicle was purchased for personal use, or business use if it’s under 10,000 pounds and the business owner has five or fewer vehicles registered in his or her name.
  • The vehicle is a car, truck, motorcycle, SUV, or similar vehicle. The non-living-spaces of motor homes are covered, including the chassis, cab, and propulsion systems.
  • The manufacturer/dealer has made two or more attempts to remedy a serious problem that could cause serious injury or death OR the manufacturer/dealer has made four or more attempts to repair the same non-life-threatening problem that is covered under the warranty.
  • The problems substantially reduce the vehicles value, use, or safety.
  • The problems are not caused by abuse by the owner or lessee.

What can lemon lawyers do for you?

The California Lemon Laws are not written in layman’s terms, so it can be easy for someone without legal expertise to misinterpret even the simplest of statements. For example, the idea of presumption with regards to the lemon law is one of the most misunderstood aspects of the law as it is written.

The lemon law has been in effect since 1970 and, as with most laws, some aspects of it have been challenged in court over the years. California lemon law attorneys are up-to-speed on the latest court cases and laws and know how they can affect your chances of receiving a settlement from vehicle manufacturers.

What’s more, even though you might meet all the criteria for a lemon car now doesn’t mean that you won’t in the future. If your vehicle has been repaired twice and you think the issue is resolved, the problem could arise again. A lemon law lawyer can advise you when you should take action in the future.

A seasoned lemon law attorney can help you determine if you have a case. If your automobile does not meet the criteria, you might have to wait until it does meet requirements to open a request for compensation. Your lemon law lawyer can also let you know if too much time has lapsed since your warranty has expired which means the likelihood of receiving a settlement from the manufacturer is next to impossible.

But if your vehicle does meet the criteria—even if it doesn’t match every condition for being a lemon—your lemon law attorney can file the necessary paperwork on your behalf to seek an award from the manufacturer.

Your next move

Many lemon car owners don’t realize there is no cost for a consultation with a lemon law lawyer. In fact, the California Lemon Laws say attorney fees are to be collected from the manufacturers, not from the consumer. So there’s nothing to lose by contacting a lemon law attorney sooner rather than later.

Think you have a claim? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney, here or call 1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050.

 

Chevy Colorado: Is Your Car a Lemon?

Mid-size pickup trucks are wildly popular with consumers who live an active and adventurous lifestyle. Unfortunately, one of the most common—the Chevy Colorado—has been plagued with transmission, engine, and other problems over the last several years turning these trucks into potential lemon cars.

  • Transmission does not engage. When pressing on the gas pedal, the truck revs, but doesn’t go into gear right away. The problem could be a defective torque converter, low transmission fluid, contaminated transmission fluid from internal wear, or internal transmission system failure.
  • Problems selecting a gear or staying in gear. This could be due to a transmission fluid leak, loss of communications to the transmission control module or computer.
  • Intense shudder. Chevy Colorado owners often experience an intense shudder and vibration under light to moderate speeds. While a simple transmission fluid flush or fill might fix the issue, the damage may already be done leading to expensive transmission repair or replacement.
  • Fuel pump failure. In 2018, the Chevy Colorado was recalled due to fuel pump failure which could leak and increase the risk of fire. Scary!
  • Check Engine light. In some Chevy Colorado models, the Check Engine light comes on with or without an accompanying “reduced power warning,” often occurring while pulling a trailer or other heavy load up a hill.

If you are experiencing these or other recurring issues with your warrantied Chevy Colorado pickup and have been unable to get them resolved by your car dealership, your truck may be a lemon. The good news is you have recourse through consumer protection laws known as the California Lemon Laws.

These laws allow you to reach a settlement with the manufacturer with one of several possible outcomes:

  • Buyback—The manufacturer refunds you for the purchase of your car and takes possession of the vehicle. You can then use the money to purchase any make or model of car you want
  • Cash and keep—You receive cash for your troubles (less than the original purchase price) but keep the vehicle.
  • Extended service contract—With this outcome, you keep the car, and the manufacturer agrees to provide service and repair for longer than the typical warranty period.
  • A replacement vehicle—Sometimes a manufacturer will agree to replace your lemon with a comparable vehicle, but this outcome is rare.

Having a California Lemon Law attorney in your corner (at no cost to you, by the way) can help you navigate the legal process, handle the paperwork, and negotiate the absolute best offer for your Chevy Colorado lemon that’s right for you.

Think you have a claim? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney, here or call  1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050.

 

When your business vehicle is a lemon

Automobiles have symbolized personal freedom and independence in America over the last century. But they have also become an integral part of Americans’ work life. A reliable car isn’t a luxury anymore, it’s a necessity, even as a business vehicle. So, if your vehicle continually lets you down on the job, it could be a lemon—and it’s time to take action.

Cargo van can’t go

Take for instance, the story of a local woman who helped her brother purchase a cargo van to use for his mortuary services business. Unfortunately, the van presented a troubling and persistent transmission problem. It would not shift into reverse. Even with several visits to the dealer to fix it, the issue persisted, and the business owner was unable to provide the proper service for families mourning the loss of their loved ones. Frustrated, she turned to us for assistance to file a California Lemon Law claim.

Securing a fair settlement

Under the California Lemon Law, there are a number of possible outcomes from filing a claim:

  • Refund of the purchase price. For many consumers, this is a very desirable outcome. The refund money can be used to purchase any make or model of car they want. In turn, the manufacturer takes possession of the lemon vehicle and can do what they want with it, including branding the title of the vehicle as a lemon, in accordance with the law, and reselling it.
  • A replacement vehicle. In this rare outcome, the manufacturer will agree to replace the lemon with a comparable vehicle.
  • Extended service contract. In some instances, the manufacturer will offer an extended service contract on the defective vehicle and agree to provide service and repair for longer than the typical warranty period.
  • Cash and keep. With this settlement option, the consumer receives cash for their troubles but keeps the vehicle.
  • There’s always the chance that the law (or a jury) won’t rule in favor of the consumer who has filed a California Lemon Law claim.

Fortunately for the mortuary business/cargo van owner, we were able to secure a financial settlement that allowed her to get a fair refund so that her brother could purchase a vehicle that enabled him to provide professional, reliable service for grieving families.

Think you have a claim? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney, here or call  1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050.

California Lemon Car Law: Pro Tips & Facts

Think you have a lemon car? Doing an internet search for what to do next can yield hundreds of results. The process can be overwhelming. In this blog, we can save you the time and stress of browsing through those links by providing several helpful California Lemon Law pro tips and facts:

  • You must have repeat repairs that are covered under the dealer or manufacturer’s warranty in order to pursue a claim under the California Lemon Law.
  • Keep detailed records of every repair done to your car. Every time you go to the dealership for repairs, do not leave without the work order when you drop the car off. And be sure to get a copy of the final repair record when you pick up the car. Not only are you entitled to this paperwork, but it is also critical to any lemon law case. If it goes to court, you are required to show that the manufacturer had plenty of chances to fix your car but was unable to. Paperwork is your proof.
  • Under the California Lemon Law, the manufacturer or authorized dealer is required to replace the vehicle or to return the purchase price if the motor vehicle does not meet the terms of the written expressed warranty, even after a number of reasonable repairs.
  • If a problem starts during the warranty period and the dealer cannot fix it, you may still be able to seek relief under lemon laws.
  • If you want to make a lemon law claim, there are specific deadlines to meet so it is best to act as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can work with you to determine the deadline and next steps.

Dealing with a defective car is stressful. So is understanding your consumer rights, next steps, and how to get a fair resolution. Contacting a California Lemon Law professional for guidance may be your best next move if you think you have a lemon car.

Think you have a claim? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney, here or call  1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050.

Certified Pre-Owned Crossover SUV: A Settlement Success Story

The must-have automobiles in America­—SUVs and crossover SUVs—only continue to rise in popularity, comprising a 50% share of auto sales in the U.S. in 2020. When a recent client purchased their certified pre-owned 2017 crossover SUV, they were thrilled to have a vehicle that could accommodate their busy family’s lifestyle. And since they bought it certified, they were confident it was a smart buy. Sadly, that did not turn out to be the case.

Within the first week of owning the car, problems started to arise. They went back and forth to the dealer to fix engine trouble three times and transmission issues four times. The family was spending more time at the repair shop than they were at their kids’ soccer games. When the owner came to us, they were fed up with this lemon. Fortunately, we were able to arrange for a buyback that put them back in the driver’s seat of a reliable, trouble-free vehicle.

Costs covered with a buyback

When you file a California Lemon Law claim, the manufacturer has 30 days to respond. One of four settlement options from the manufacturer include: a replacement vehicle, a buyback of your vehicle, or a cash settlement and you retain ownership of the vehicle, or nothing.

In the case of my crossover SUV client, the best outcome for them was a buyback. The California Lemon Law stipulates that a buyback settlement includes a refund of all cash spent to buy the vehicle and any additional expenses that were incurred during the time of ownership, such as:

  • Down payment
  • Monthly payments
  • Balance of the loan
  • Interest
  • Taxes
  • Costs incurred while vehicle was under repair (e.g., rental car or other transportation costs and towing expenses)

The objective of the California Lemon Law buyback solution is to make the owner of the vehicle whole again.

Costs not covered with a buyback

Your settlement claim should outline all the above expenses making sure to turn over every stone of expense you incurred. However, you are responsible for the usage fee, which is the mileage you placed on the car during the time you owned it using the first repair visit. This fee is calculated using a formula to determine the value of the miles driven on the car before the mechanical issues began.

Expediting your settlement

Whether you receive a buyback settlement like our client described here, or choose one of the other options, it is important to retain paperwork of all auto repairs and other out-of-pocket expenses. Good record-keeping can help your California Lemon Law attorney negotiate the best settlement on your behalf.

Think you have a claim? Looking for a lemon lawyer near me ? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney here or call 1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050. Visit our website for more information.

Chevy, We Have a Problem: Is Your Chevrolet a Lemon?

For over 100 years, Chevrolet has become as synonymous with America as, well, baseball, hot dogs, apple pie and Chevrolet. While the catchy tune and ad campaign helped drive the auto manufacturer to great success over the years, the company has had its share of serious issues with many of its models, some of which persist despite numerous repair attempts. Chevy, we may have a lemon.

My Chevrolet lemon watch list

As a California Lemon Law attorney, I keep a close watch on the makes and models of automobiles that are chronic lemons. Here are the Chevrolet models (2015-2021) currently on my watch list and why:

  • Cruz: transmission, steering problems
  • Colorado: transmission, vibration, engine and infotainment problems
  • Tahoe: electrical, transmission, A/C, brake and dashboard problems
  • Blazer: engine, electrical system, speed control and trailer hitch problems
  • Bolt:  issues include battery, powertrain, brake, software and torsion beam problems
  • Camaro:  issues include water and coolant leaks, ignition and fuel pump problems
  • Corvette: issues include engine, transmission, vibration, electrical, twin-turbo power and exhaust system problems
  • Equinox: issues include transmission, engine and stalling problem
  • Impala: issues include ignition problems
  • Malibu: issues include coolant and engine oil leaks, overheating and transmission problems
  • Spark: issues include engine, power train, electrical system, airbag, break, speed control, fuel system and steering problems
  • Suburban: issues include AC refrigerant leaks, brake, exterior lighting and power tailgate problems
  • Trailblazer: issues include AC, cooling fan, check engine light, fuel level sensor and valve problems
  • Traverse: issues include heating, ventilation, air conditioning, airbag, traction, steering, alignment, fuel injection, leak and transmission problems
  • Trax: issues include engine, transmission, fuel system, electric system, suspension, brakes and power equipment problems
  • Volt: issues include transmission, power, engine and steering problems

Can the California Lemon Law help Chevy owners?

If you own one of the Chevy models listed above and think you have a potential lemon on your hands, I have good news for you. New and used Chevrolet vehicles are covered by the California Lemon Law if they meet the following conditions:

  1. The Chevrolet vehicle was purchased or leased from a dealership here in California.
  2. You have repeatedly brought the vehicle to the dealer for repairs and they can’t seem to fully fix it.
  3. The problems are not minor, meaning they are serious enough to negatively affect the vehicle’s use, safety, or value.

 Your next steps

If your new or used Chevrolet meets these conditions, you may have a case. Under the California Lemon Law, Chevrolet could be required to provide you with a refund or replacement vehicle for your lemon. However, it is important to understand that automotive manufacturers do not make it easy for consumers to obtain the refund or replacement that they deserve. That’s why many vehicle owners turn to lemon law experts like California lemon law attorney Sotera Anderson  to understand their legal options and obtain representation for the best settlement.

Think you have a claim? Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation from Sotera L. Anderson, California Lemon Law Attorney, here or call  1-855-96-LEMON, or (858) 247-0050. Visit our website for more information.