
California Hyundai Lemon Law Attorneys
Trusted Lemon Law Firm for Hyundai Owners in California
Hyundai is one of the most popular automobile brands in the world. It’s easy to see why. These vehicles are reliable, safe, and affordable. But no vehicle is perfect, and even the best manufacturers produce a few lemons.
Hyundai automobiles come with a warranty designed to prevent the consumer from having to pay for the repair of covered components. But what happens if your Hyundai vehicle develops a flaw that cannot be rectified while it is still under warranty? You may have a lemon on your hands.
Our Hyundai lemon law attorneys are here to help. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of Hyundai owners in Orange County, and we have a proven track record of success. If you believe that you recently purchased a Hyundai lemon, please contact our law firm for a free case evaluation.
Think Your Hyundai Might Be a Lemon? Don’t wait—contact us today at (949) 390-9695 for a free case evaluation and find out if you qualify for compensation!
Understanding California Lemon Law for Hyundai Owners
The lemon law in California provides robust protection for Hyundai owners, allowing them to seek a refund, replacement vehicle, or monetary compensation for a defective car. This law, applicable to both new and pre-owned vehicles, is effective as long as the original manufacturer's warranty is still valid.
Under the California lemon law, Hyundai may be required to repurchase your vehicle if it has been subject to a reasonable number of repair attempts or if it has been out of service for an extended period of time.
You do not have to go up against the Hyundai Motor Company alone. Our experienced Hyundai lemon law attorneys are ready to help you fight for your rights. We know how to hold Hyundai accountable under the California lemon law, and we are not afraid to take them on in court.
Defining a Lemon: What You Need to Know
California's lemon law defines a "lemon" as a vehicle with a significant defect that severely hampers its functionality, worth, or safety, and which the manufacturer or authorized dealer fails to rectify after several attempts. The law typically considers four or more repair tries, or two or more for safety-related issues, as a "reasonable number of attempts".
It is important to note that the defect must substantially impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety in order for it to be considered a lemon. This means that a minor defect or a defect that has little effect on the vehicle’s use, value, or safety will not qualify the vehicle as a lemon, even if it cannot be repaired.
Common Defects Found in Hyundai Vehicles
Hyundai vehicles are known for their exceptional reliability. However, even the most reliable vehicles can experience a defect that cannot be repaired.
Some of the most common defects that have been reported in Hyundai vehicles include:
- Engine failure
- Transmission failure
- Suspension failure
- Steering failure
- Electrical system failure
- Brake failure
- Acceleration problems
- Stalling
- Overheating
- Excessive oil consumption
- Excessive tire wear
- Paint defects
It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of defects that have been reported in Hyundai vehicles. If you believe that you own a Hyundai lemon, you should consult with a Hyundai lemon law attorney to determine if you have a valid claim.
How to Prove Your Hyundai is a Lemon
Proving that your Hyundai is a lemon requires strong documentation and evidence. If you suspect your vehicle qualifies, follow these steps to build a solid case:
- Keep all repair records. Every time you take your car in for service, ensure you get a detailed invoice that includes the date, reported issue, attempted repair, and total time spent in the shop. These records are crucial in proving multiple repair attempts.
- Track the number of repair visits. California Lemon Law considers a vehicle a lemon if it has undergone at least two repairs for a serious safety defect, four or more repairs for the same recurring issue, or has been out of service for 30+ days.
- Document the issue. Take photos, videos, and written notes about the defect, especially if it affects drivability or safety. If possible, record any warning lights, strange noises, or mechanical failures that occur while driving.
- Communicate in writing. If your Hyundai is still having issues after multiple repair attempts, notify the manufacturer or dealership in writing. Keep copies of all emails and letters as proof that you've tried to resolve the problem.
- Consult a Lemon Law attorney. An experienced lawyer can assess your claim, handle communication with Hyundai, and help you pursue a buyback, replacement, or compensation.
What Compensation Can You Get Under California Lemon Law?
If your Hyundai is deemed a lemon, California law provides several forms of compensation to protect consumers:
- Vehicle Buyback (Refund). If Hyundai repurchases your vehicle, they must reimburse you for the full purchase price minus a small mileage deduction. This also includes taxes, registration fees, and any outstanding loan balance if you financed the car.
- Vehicle Replacement. Instead of a refund, you may be eligible for a new Hyundai of similar value at no additional cost. This option is ideal if you still want a Hyundai but need a working vehicle.
- Cash Settlement. In some cases, Hyundai may offer a cash payout instead of a buyback. This allows you to keep your car while receiving compensation for its defects.
- Reimbursement for additional expenses. You may be able to recover rental car fees, towing costs, and out-of-pocket repair expenses caused by your lemon vehicle.
Additionally, Hyundai is responsible for covering your attorney fees under California Lemon Law, meaning you don’t have to worry about legal costs.
Hyundai Recalls and Known Defects
Hyundai has faced multiple recalls and widespread defects in recent years. If your Hyundai has a known issue, it may strengthen your Lemon Law claim. Some of the most commonly reported problems include:
- Engine failure and excessive oil consumption. Many Hyundai models, including the Sonata, Tucson, Elantra, and Santa Fe, have suffered from premature engine failure due to defective components. Some vehicles also burn excessive oil, leading to potential engine damage.
- Transmission and acceleration issues. Dual-clutch transmission problems have been reported in models like the Hyundai Kona and Veloster, causing hesitation, jerking, or sudden power loss while driving.
- Brake system malfunctions. Some Hyundai vehicles experience brake failure, unresponsive braking, or excessive brake wear, which can pose serious safety risks.
- Electrical and infotainment failures. Recurring issues include failing touchscreens, navigation glitches, battery drainage, and alternator malfunctions.
- Fire hazards and fuel system defects. Certain Hyundai models have been recalled due to fuel leaks, short circuits, and overheating issues, all of which can increase the risk of vehicle fires.
To check if your Hyundai has an active recall, visit the NHTSA website (www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) and enter your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
If your Hyundai has a history of defects or recalls and remains unfixable after multiple repair attempts, you may have a valid Lemon Law case.
Contact Our Hyundai Lemon Law Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you believe that you own a lemon, you should contact our law firm as soon as possible. There are strict deadlines for filing a lemon law claim, and you may lose your right to recover compensation if you wait too long.
Our Hyundai lemon law attorneys at O’Connor Law Group, P.C. are dedicated to protecting the rights of owners in California. We know how to hold Hyundai accountable under the California lemon law, and we are ready to help you fight for your rights. Please contact our law firm to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.
Tired of Constant Repairs? You may be entitled to a refund or replacement vehicle. Call (949) 390-9695 or contact us now to get started!
Our FAQ
Have More? Contact Us!
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What Am I Entitled to if My Vehicle Qualifies Under the California Lemon Law?
If your vehicle qualifies under the California Lemon Law, you may be entitled to a refund of your down payment and monthly finance payments, as well as a discharge of your vehicle loan. You may also be entitled to reimbursement of incidental damages such as rental car expenses, repair costs, and towing expenses.
If offered by the manufacturer, you may choose to have your vehicle replaced with a similar vehicle instead of having your money refunded.
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Can I Have a Claim Under the California Lemon Law if My Repair Visits Did Not Occur Within the Vehicle’s First 18 Months and 18,Generally, your issue must have occurred within 18 months or within 18,000 miles (whichever came first). However, major defects that occur outside of this time frame may still present a viable claim. The court may assess situations on a case-by-case basis.
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How Many Times Do I Need to Take My Car Back to the Dealer Before I Have a California Lemon Law Claim?
The California Lemon Law states that dealerships must be given a reasonable number of opportunities to repair a vehicle. The law is fairly broad, leaving room for a variety of different circumstances. Since the law does not require any specific number of repair visits, each matter should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Typically, four visits for the same problem will qualify, but, depending on the defect, fewer visits may suffice. For example, a defect as severe as brake system failure may only require two visits. Moreover, if a vehicle spends a cumulative total of over 30 days in the shop for warranty repairs, it may satisfy the requirement no matter how many separate visits were made.


If you're having difficulties achieving a favorable solution for your lemon law case or you have questions about lemon law in Los Angeles, O’Connor Law Group, P.C. can help you. We understand the importance of having a working vehicle and the complexities of these cases. Our team is prepared to go to trial for our clients, if negotiating settlements or remedies with stubborn corporations cannot be taken care of outside the courtroom. We pride ourselves on providing clear, honest guidance and communication to our clients, ensuring that they understand the process, their rights, and legal options. Connect with lemon law lawyers near you for a free consultation at O’Connor Law Group, P.C..
If you think your vehicle may be a "lemon," don't wait any longer!
