You might expect a quick turnaround when you drop off your car at the dealership for repairs. However, sometimes, what starts as a day or two of work can extend into weeks, leaving you without your vehicle and growing increasingly frustrated.
If you know what to typically expect when it comes to repair timelines, it can give you a better idea of the answer to this all-too-common question: how long can a dealership hold your car for repair? And if your car is at the dealership for longer than seems necessary, knowing your consumer rights is key – especially when it feels like you’re running out of options and patience.
How Long Can the Dealership Hold Your Car Before It Becomes a Lemon?
In California, if your car spends excessive time at the dealership for repairs, it could be classified as a lemon. The specific duration that defines this limit isn’t set in stone and can depend on the nature of the repairs and the warranty terms.
Generally, if your vehicle is in the repair shop for more than 30 cumulative days for the same issue under warranty, it may qualify as a lemon. This period does not need to be consecutive but reflects the total time spent on repeated unsuccessful repair attempts.
What Factors Legitimately Influence Repair Timelines?
There are a few legitimate factors that can contribute to the length of time your car remains at the dealership for repairs, making extended stays more understandable in certain situations subject to reasonable time frames:
- Parts Availability: Sometimes, the necessary parts for a repair are on backorder, especially if they need to be sourced from overseas or are in high demand.
- Diagnostic Delays: Complex mechanical issues often require sophisticated, time-consuming diagnostics. Some problems may not be immediately apparent, requiring multiple tests or the involvement of manufacturer support to pinpoint the exact issue.
- Workshop Capacity: High service demands, staff shortages, or large repair jobs ahead of yours can backlog even the most efficient service departments.
- Technical Complexity: Modern cars have advanced technology and electronics, which can complicate repairs and diagnostics. The expertise required to address these advanced systems can vary, sometimes requiring specialized technicians who may not be immediately available.
Does the Dealership Really Only Have 30 Days?
While many believe a dealership has a strict 30-day limit to fix your car under California lemon law, this isn’t entirely accurate. The 30-day period is a guideline rather than a legal mandate. It is the total amount of time considered reasonable for a dealership to address a warranty repair before a car is suggested to be a lemon. This period allows for the complicated realities of automotive repair, acknowledging that not all delays reflect poor service or intent.
What Should You Do If a Dealership Has Your Car for an Extended Period?
If your car has been with the dealership for an unusually long time, take the following steps:
- Communicate: Regularly check in with the service manager for updates on your car’s repair progress.
- Document: Keep a detailed record of all communications, including dates, who you spoke with, and what was discussed. Save all repair orders and service records.
- Understand the Terms of Your Warranty: Review your warranty documentation to understand what is covered and the procedures for filing a claim.
- Escalate: If your concerns are not being addressed, escalate the issue to the dealership management or contact the car manufacturer directly.
- Seek Legal Advice: If your dealership continues to hold your car beyond a reasonable repair timeframe, a qualified lemon law attorney can provide guidance on how to proceed with a claim.
Your Rights as a Consumer & Next Steps
Having your car out of commission can be a major inconvenience, but knowing the rules about how long the dealership can hold your vehicle and your options for the repair time can help you manage the situation more effectively. If you find yourself in a situation where your vehicle is at the dealership for an unreasonable time period, consider consulting with a lemon law attorney to explore your options for legal recourse under California law.
As a consumer, you have specific rights under California’s lemon laws if your car qualifies as a lemon due to extended repair times. Depending on your situation, you might be eligible to file a claim, which can help you reach a resolution that includes a vehicle buyback or another form of financial compensation.
For more information about knowing if your car is a lemon and how to take the first steps toward filing a claim, contact us for a free legal consultation today!
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