California Lemon Law Attorney | Multiple Defects Case Win
Consumer Action Law Group recovered $90,000 for client S. Nichols after purchasing a new Mercedes-Benz SUV that proved defective in multiple systems — and could not be repaired after repeated service visits.
What happened to Nichols?
Our client purchased a brand-new Mercedes-Benz SUV and almost immediately discovered that the vehicle had serious defects. The rear cargo door and flooring were defective from the start, and problems continued to emerge with the windshield, air conditioning system, proximity sensors, and starter.
Our client returned the vehicle to the dealership for service multiple times, but the defects were never fully resolved. Left without reliable transportation and unable to carry on with everyday personal and professional activities, our client took the position that the dealership had failed to honor its obligations under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act — and formally revoked acceptance of the vehicle, demanding a full refund of the purchase transaction.
How did Consumer Action Law Group resolve this case?
After the dealership failed to make the vehicle right, our client contacted Consumer Action Law Group. Our team reviewed the repair history and the circumstances of the purchase and determined that the repeated failed repair attempts gave rise to strong claims under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act.
Consumer Action Law Group pursued the case aggressively on our client’s behalf, and the matter was resolved with a full recovery of $90,000. Our client was able to move forward, with the financial harm from the defective vehicle fully addressed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my rights if I bought a new car that the dealer can’t fix in California?
Under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act — commonly called the California Lemon Law — consumers who purchase or lease a new vehicle that has a defect the manufacturer or dealer cannot repair after a reasonable number of attempts may be entitled to a full refund or replacement. The law also covers incidental costs related to the defective vehicle. If the manufacturer or dealer refuses to comply, you may have the right to pursue legal action, and they may be required to pay your attorney’s fees if you prevail.
Can I get my money back if my new car has defects involving multiple systems?
Yes — in fact, defects across multiple vehicle systems can strengthen a lemon law claim in California, because they often demonstrate that the vehicle has a substantial impairment affecting its use, value, or safety. The key factors are whether the defects persisted despite a reasonable number of repair attempts, and whether the problems substantially impaired the vehicle. An attorney can evaluate whether the full pattern of issues in your case qualifies.
What does it mean to “revoke acceptance” of a vehicle in California?
Revocation of acceptance is a legal remedy under California law that allows a buyer to undo a vehicle purchase when the vehicle has a defect that substantially impairs its value and the seller has been given a reasonable opportunity to fix it. Unlike returning a car under a dealer’s informal policy, revoking acceptance is a formal legal action. It can entitle the buyer to a full refund of the purchase price, including amounts paid toward the loan, down payment, and other out-of-pocket costs.
My new car has multiple unresolved defects — does that mean I have the same case as this client?
Not necessarily. Every case depends on its own specific facts — the outcome described here reflects the particular circumstances of that client’s situation, and cases that sound similar don’t always lead to the same result. What matters is whether the events happened as you remember them, whether you have documentation to support your claim (such as repair orders, dealer communications, or purchase contracts), and whether the circumstances of your vehicle purchase qualify under the laws Consumer Action Law Group pursues. The only way to know if you have a case is to speak with our team directly — consultations are free.
What types of vehicle defect cases does Consumer Action Law Group handle in California?
Consumer Action Law Group handles a wide range of vehicle defect and auto fraud cases throughout California, including lemon law claims under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, claims involving defects that affect safety or drivability, and cases where a dealer misrepresented a vehicle’s condition at the time of sale. The firm represents clients with new and used vehicle purchases across all makes and models.
Did a car dealer defraud you? We can help.
Consumer Action Law Group has spent over a decade fighting for California consumers against dealerships and manufacturers who fail to stand behind their vehicles. We have recovered millions of dollars for clients across California, and we are ready to evaluate your situation at no cost to you.
If your vehicle has defects that haven’t been fixed, or if you believe a dealer took advantage of you, contact us today — consultations are free.
