Toyota Lemon Law Lawyer in California
Founded in 1937 in Japan, Toyota has become one of the largest and most successful auto manufacturers in history. While Toyotas are celebrated for their reliability and affordability, some owners find themselves making multiple trips to the mechanic. That exciting “new car” feeling can quickly fade if you discover you’ve purchased a lemon. But remember—if your Toyota dealer sold you a lemon, you have rights.
Is Your Toyota a Lemon?
Firstly, what is a lemon? In terms of automobiles, lemons are defined as a vehicle which shows significant defects and/or malfunctions. If you were guaranteed a safe Toyota right off the lot, but noticed inconsistency in performance or worrying safety issues shortly after purchase, it’s most likely that your car is a lemon.
Lemons are extremely unsafe. Toyota models that have qualified as lemons include:
- Toyota Avalon
- Toyota 4Runner
- Toyota Camry
- Toyota C-HR
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Highlander
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- And many more.
Contact the Lemon Law Experts at Golden Lemon For a Free Case Evaluation
Common Lemon Law Defects in Toyotas
Though cars have improved in quality and safety over the decades, that doesn’t mean there can’t be hiccups from the assembly line. According to California’s Department of Consumer Affairs, the lemon law covers new and used vehicles that come with the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty.
If your Toyota is experiencing any of the issues listed below, you may be entitled to a full refund or replacement:
Engine issues.
This includes knocking, vibrating, or engine failure.
Check engine/other warning lights.
These lights appearing shortly after purchase is not normal and should be checked immediately.
Brake Problems.
Various Toyota models have had issues with multiple brake issues, including leaking brake fluid, faulty master cylinders, and problems with the brake booster.
Locking steering wheel.
A stiff steering wheel can indicate it is locked up. You may find your car unable to turn left or right, and even the key won’t turn in the ignition.
Rattling suspension.
Noises like rattling, squeaking, or knocking could signal poor suspension, potentially causing you to lose control of the vehicle.
Accelerator Pedal Sticking.
If your accelerator pedal ends up sticking, it can cause unintended acceleration and lead to serious injury on the road.
Oils or other leaking fluids:
Red, green, or brown fluids leaking from your Toyota may indicate issues with coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, or power steering fluid.
Malfunctioning brake components.
Brakes that feel stiff or spongy can lead to serious accidents.
Airbag issues.
Faulty sensors can prevent an airbag from deploying correctly during an accident.
Toyota Recalls
Fuel Pump Malfunction
Takata Airbag Malfunction
Hybrid Power Loss
Toyota Lemon Law Buyback
Once it’s been determined that your Toyota is a lemon and it’s still under warranty, Toyota is required to buy it back. When Toyota buys your vehicle back, they will reimburse you for everything, including sales tax and license and registration fees.
Not sure where to start? Fill out the form below for a free case evaluation.
Get Your Free Consultation With a Lemon Law Lawyer in California
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Against Toyota?
In California, you have up to four years to file a lemon law claim, but it’s important not to wait. The sooner you file, the better your chances of securing maximum compensation.
The statute of limitations usually begins once your new car warranty expires. Waiting too long could result in missing out on a cash settlement from Toyota.
Do California Lemon Laws Apply to Used and Leased Cars?
Lemon laws also apply to used and leased vehicles, though the type of compensation differs. If you’ve leased a Toyota, you may be eligible for reimbursement for payments made and a buy-out of the remaining lease agreement. For those who bought a used Toyota, compensation may be available if:
- The Toyota is still covered by its original warranty.
- The Toyota was sold with a valid written factory warranty.
Get Maximum Reward for Your Toyota Lemon
If your Toyota qualifies as a lemon, you have the right to compensation. We know that buying a vehicle is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make—so if your investment turns out to be a lemon, we’re here to assist. We’ve helped our clients recover over $100 million in settlements, thanks to:
- Our experienced lemon law attorneys
- A strong history of successful cases
- No fees unless we win your case
Find out how much your lemon law claim for a faulty Toyota could be worth by using our lemon law calculator—it takes less than two minutes!
Does Your Toyota Qualify?
Toyota Lemon Law FAQs
Yes, the law can apply to Toyota vehicles if they are still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty at the time of purchase or if the vehicle was sold with a valid written factory warranty.
