San Diego RV Lemon Law Lawyer Simplifying Claims for Consumers
Buying an RV is a significant investment. If you have purchased or leased an RV, you expect it to look and perform as advertised. However, in the unfortunate circumstance that your recreational vehicle has a malfunction or defect and the best efforts of the manufacturer to repair it have been unsuccessful, San Diego Lemon Law can help you determine whether you have a claim.
Our helpful legal team can explain how California’s lemon law applies to RVs and assist you through the entire claims process. Contact our office today at 619-434-0819 to schedule a free consultation.
How Are RVs Different From Other Vehicles?
Recreational vehicles can come in many shapes and sizes. Some are motorized, while others, such as fifth-wheel trailers, are made to be pulled behind another vehicle. This creates a unique situation for RVs when it comes to lemon laws.
The motor vehicle part of an RV, including the engine, chassis, drive train, and chassis cab, is covered by the same lemon law rules that apply to cars. However, the livable part of an RV is considered a consumer good. While this distinction can complicate claims, it doesn’t limit the ability of all RV owners to seek resolution from the manufacturer if any portion of their RV is defective. Warrantied consumer goods are covered under state and federal lemon laws, including the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
When Does the Lemon Law Apply to Your RV?
Purchasing an RV that does not work right can be an expensive and frustrating experience. But how can you determine whether California’s lemon law covers your defective RV? To be considered a lemon under motor vehicle standards, your RV needs to meet certain criteria, including:
- Has an issue that impacts the RV’s use, safety, or value.
- The defect was not caused by an accident or normal wear and tear on the RV.
- Unsuccessfully underwent a reasonable number of attempts by the manufacturer or authorized dealer to correct the issue, or has been at a mechanic’s shop for repairs for 30 or more days.
- Was purchased within the last 18 months or has less than 18,000 miles on the odometer (whichever happens first), although this is not always a hard and fast rule.
If you are experiencing issues with the living area of your RV, such as leaks, electrical problems, or poor assembly, there may be different requirements. Because the law can often be confusing and there are so many variables involved, it is recommended that you seek the opinion of a knowledgeable California lemon law lawyer if you suspect that your RV has a defect. Our law firm provides free case evaluations, so there is no risk in speaking with a helpful attorney to learn about your legal options.
What Damages Can Owners Recover if Their RV is a Lemon?
You are likely very upset and disappointed if your new RV has turned out to be a lemon. If you can show that your RV still has a recurring defect despite repeated repair attempts, the manufacturer or dealer must make things right. Depending on the situation, you may either choose to have your RV replaced or receive a refund. You could also recover repair costs, down payments, registration fees, and other losses related to the defect. By law, the manufacturer must also pay your legal fees relating to the case. This incentivizes the manufacturer to settle out of court if a lawyer is involved.
How Can an Attorney Make the Claims Process Easier?
Recreational vehicles occupy a special place in lemon law because they can be regarded as either a consumer good or a motorized vehicle, depending on where the defect has occurred. This complexity can make it extremely challenging for an owner to successfully navigate the law on their own and get the full recovery they are entitled to. A skilled attorney from San Diego Lemon Law can handle every aspect of your case and ensure that the manufacturer is held accountable for your difficulties.
You have nothing to lose by contacting a lemon law lawyer. We are happy to answer your questions. Our consultations are free, and the manufacturer is responsible for paying your legal fees as part of your settlement. Call 619-434-0819 today to schedule your appointment.