RV Motor Home Lemon Law

Serving California for Over 30 Years

Orange County RV Lemon Law Attorney: Protect Your Investment

Defective RV in Orange County? Get Legal Help Now

Is your recreational vehicle (RV) defective? You aren't alone if you feel this way. Every year, thousands of RVs are purchased by consumers who consider them defective. The lemon law in CA covers recreational vehicles just like other vehicles, which is something too many people don't know. 

Lemon Law extends to RVs and motor homes as well as well as common vehicles. In any lemon law case, it's important to keep accurate records of the issues you encountered and how long your RV was not in working order.


Get started with a free case evaluation by calling our firm at 949.446.1668.


Defective RV? Know Your Rights and Take Action

People like you are protected by RV lemon laws if they have purchased a defective RV. Following a reasonable number of repair attempts, the manufacturer is required to replace the RV or refund your money if the vehicle cannot be repaired to meet the warranty terms. In many cases, however, manufacturers fail to compensate consumers for defective RVs.

Lemon laws protect some types of Recreational Vehicles (RVs):

  • Class A Motorhomes
  • Class B Motorhome
  • Class C Motorhome
  • Fifth Wheel Trailer
  • Travel Trailer

Maximizing Your RV's Lemon Law Settlement: How Much Could You Get?

The average Lemon Law settlement in California for RV cases can vary considerably, as it hinges on several factors specific to each situation. These factors include the severity and nature of the defects, the RV’s purchase price, how often and how long the RV has been out of service for repairs, and whether the issues impact the RV's safety or usability. 

Settlements for RVs can range from partial refunds or repairs to full repurchases of the vehicle, including compensation for any incidental costs incurred, such as towing and storage fees.

When dealing with RV Lemon Law cases, it's essential to understand that these cases can be more complex than those involving standard automobiles. This complexity often arises because RVs have multiple systems and components, each potentially contributing to the vehicle's defects. Therefore, having an experienced California recreational vehicle lemon law attorney is crucial. They can help document and demonstrate the persistent issues affecting your RV, ensuring you have a strong case against the manufacturer or dealer.

Barnes Law Firm specializes in handling RV Lemon Law cases, and we understand the unique challenges they present. We work diligently to ensure manufacturers are held accountable and that you receive a fair settlement. This might include negotiating for a new RV, a buyback, or a cash settlement, depending on what best suits your circumstances.

Each RV Lemon Law case is unique, so having the right legal support can make a significant difference in securing the outcome you deserve. We are committed to helping you navigate these complexities and achieve a satisfactory resolution, allowing you to return to enjoying your travels without worry.

Common Defects in RVs

Adding more details on the types of issues that could qualify as substantial defects would make the information more relatable to readers. It helps potential clients quickly identify if they have a valid case.

Example: Common defects in RVs that could qualify for Lemon Law protection include:

  • Engine failure or mechanical breakdowns
  • Faulty generators that fail to provide power
  • Water system issues such as plumbing leaks, mold, or septic problems
  • Electrical failures that affect key RV systems, like lights, air conditioning, or appliances
  • Slide-out issues that fail to extend or retract properly

Steps to Take If You Think Your RV is a Lemon

If you suspect that your RV is a lemon, acting quickly is important. Here are some immediate steps you should take:

  • Document the Issues: Keep a detailed record of every problem with your RV, including dates, descriptions, and any repairs made.
  • Keep Repair Records: Hold onto all invoices, work orders, and receipts from the dealership or repair shop. This will be essential in proving your case.
  • Contact the Manufacturer or Dealership: Notify them about the recurring issues with your RV and request repairs. Be sure to keep records of all communications.
  • Don’t Delay: Lemon Law has time limits for making a claim, so it’s important to take action as soon as you notice a defect.

The Legal Process for RV Lemon Law Cases

Understanding the legal process can help reduce stress and uncertainty.

  • Initial Consultation: Your attorney will assess your case and determine whether your RV qualifies under Lemon Law.
  • Settlement or Trial: In most cases, the manufacturer or dealership will offer a settlement. If not, the case may go to trial.

How Long the Process Takes

  • Timeline: The legal process can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case and whether a settlement is reached.
  • Factors That Influence Timing: The number of repair attempts, the severity of the defect, and the manufacturer’s response can all affect how long the case takes.

How to Prove Your RV is a Lemon

Proving that your RV qualifies as a lemon requires evidence.

  • Keep Detailed Records: Document all defects and repairs, including written communications with the manufacturer or dealer.
  • Photos and Videos: Take clear pictures or videos of defects, such as plumbing issues, engine failure, or malfunctioning slide-outs.
  • Expert Inspections: A third-party expert can provide an inspection or testimony that strengthens your case by confirming the defects.

How RV Lemon Law Protects Consumers Beyond the Vehicle

Lemon Law doesn’t just cover the cost of your RV. It may also cover additional costs.

  • Incidental Costs: Lemon Law can help you recover expenses for towing, storage fees, and even the cost of renting a replacement RV while yours is being repaired.
  • Emotional Stress: In some cases, emotional distress caused by the inconvenience of owning a defective RV may also be considered when determining a settlement.

How to Contact a Lemon Law Attorney

If you believe your RV is a lemon, consulting with a qualified attorney is essential:

  • Consult Early: An attorney can guide you through the legal process and advise you on your rights.
  • Expect a Free Case Evaluation: Most Lemon Law attorneys offer free consultations. They will review the details of your case and help you understand your options.
  • Legal Advice: A lawyer can provide a strategy for how to proceed, ensuring you have the best chance at a favorable outcome.

RV Lemon Law FAQs: Protection for Your Motor Home

  • Is My Motor Home Vehicle or RV Considered a Lemon?
    According to California law, a motor home may be considered a lemon if it has a substantial problem or problems that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. What is considered a reasonable number of attempts varies based on the facts and circumstances of each case.
  • What is RV Lemon Law?
    RV Lemon Law in California protects consumers who purchase defective recreational vehicles (RVs). If your RV has repeated, substantial issues that the manufacturer or dealer cannot repair after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement under California's Lemon Law.
  • Does Lemon Law Apply to RVs?
    Yes, California's Lemon Law covers not only cars and trucks but also recreational vehicles (RVs) such as motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth-wheel trailers. If your RV experiences consistent defects that affect its safety, usability, or value, Lemon Law may protect you.
  • How Do I Know If My RV is a Lemon?
    Your RV may be considered a lemon if it has a significant issue that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. This includes recurring mechanical, electrical, or safety-related problems. For example, issues with the engine, generator, slide-outs, plumbing, or kitchen could qualify.
  • What Types of Problems Are Considered Substantial in Lemon Law Cases?
    Problems with the interior of your motor home, such as generators, bathrooms, slide-outs, or the kitchen could classify as a substantial problem that cannot be repaired. You may also be eligible for consumer protection under the Song-Beverly Consumer warranty Act, if these types of problems are consistent.
  • What Should I Do Once I Determine My RV is a Lemon?
    At Barnes Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of consumers. Once your vehicle is determined a lemon, contact our Orange County motor home lemon law Attorney, immediately. Any vehicle purchase is an investment of hard-earned dollars, and it is simply unjust for those dollars to be wasted on a defective product.

Seek Justice with Orange County's Trusted RV Lemon Law Attorneys

Barnes Law Firm is ready to help with your RV lemon law cases in California. Our Orange RV County lemon lawyer takes the time to listen to your situation, get the facts, and protect your consumer rights with ease and efficiency. 

A motor home is often the second most expensive investment a consumer will make. When your motorhome, trailer, or fifth wheel is riddled with problems, it can have a substantial impact on your use and enjoyment.


Ready to Claim Your Rights? Contact Our Lemon Law Attorney Now in Orange County by calling our office at 949.446.1668.


Meet Stephen G. Barnes

Attorney Barnes was one of the early pioneers to exclusively handle Lemon Law cases in California. His goal is to provide every client with dedicated one-on-one attention as they navigate their Lemon Law case.

Do You Think You Have a Lemon Law Claim?

Start your case with a free initial consultation. Fill out the following form or call us at 949.446.1668.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter the make of your car.
  • Please enter the model of you car.
  • Please enter the year of you car.
  • Please enter the year of you car.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter the year of you car.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Are the 3 General Qualifications for a Lemon?

    The three general qualifications are:

    • The car must have a substantial impairment in use, value, or safety
    • The problems with the car must have been, covered by a warranty
    • The owner must have attempted to get the vehicle repaired multiple times or the car must be in the shop an unreasonable amount of days

    For more information click here

  • What Does It Cost to Hire a Lemon Law Attorney?

    In most cases, it costs nothing to hire Barnes Law firm to handle your lemon law case. We will collect our attorney fees from the manufacturer if your claim is successful.

  • Does the California Lemon Law Apply if I’ve Purchased a Faulty Used Vehicle?

    The short answer is yes if you purchased the car with a warranty. The lemon law covers a used car if you bought it with a warranty, have a substantial problem covered by that warranty, and have given the warrantor a reasonable opportunity to repair the car. If you have bought a faulty used car, it is important that you speak with an Orange County lemon law attorney to get you the results you deserve.

  • Am I Required to Go Through Arbitration Before Hiring a Lemon Law Lawyer?

    No. You are not required to go through arbitration before hiring a lemon law attorney. In most situations, you would not be required to go through arbitration, and you should get the advice of an experienced lemon law lawyer before taking such a step.