BMW Lemon Law
California
We work with consumers who purchased or leased a defective BMW model – and are fighting for fair compensation.
BMW Models with the Most Recalls
BMW – Bayerische Motoren Werke – is synonymous with class and luxury. Founded in 1916, the brand produces more than two million units every year and is consistently praised for its environmental record. The automaker is even a charter member of the EPA. Even with all the success, BMW models have experienced many recalls over the past century. Here are some of the most problematic models:
BMW X5
The X5 was put into production in 1998 and the model has seen four generations. The X5 has generally enjoyed rave reviews from critics and consumers – with a strong reliability rating of 77/100 on JD Power. Through all the praise, this model holds the record for most recalls under the BMW brand, with 133 for issues related to:
- Airbag defects
- Engine problems
- Powertrain malfunctions
- Fuel system failures
BMW M3
The M3 was created as a more efficient counterpart to the famed BMW 3 series. The model has been in production since 1986 spanning six generations. While the M3 has earned considerable praise – both from critics and consumers, it has racked up 86 recalls for a plethora of issues, including:
- Defective airbags
- Powertrain defects
- Visibility problems
- Electric system failures
BMW 328i
The 328i is an acclaimed part of the 3 series – and has been in production since 1975. Through the years, the model has been a favorite choice for BMW enthusiasts and has earned several accolades. But it’s no stranger to recalls. The 328i has amassed 76 recalls for problems including:
- Service brake failures
- Electrical system defects
- Faulty airbags
BMW X6
The X6 is BMW’s premier mid-size luxury crossover SUV model. Launched in 2007, the model has sold thousands of units worldwide and has enjoyed favorable reviews – earning an 81/100 on JD Power. However, it has also been subjected to 73 recalls for defects related to:
- Airbag problems
- Engine failures
- Child seat malfunctions
BMW 330i
The 330i is an exceptional compact car that is part of the famous BMW 3 series. The model is consistently praised for its comfortable interior and energy-saving capabilities. While the 330i is beloved by many consumers, it has a plethora of issues – earning 67 recalls for problems including:
- Airbag malfunctions
- Seatbelt issues
- Electrical system failures
- Defective exterior lighting
Does Your Vehicle Qualify for BMW Lemon Law California?
You may be entitled to compensation if you purchased or leased a defective BMW vehicle in California – but it’s not guaranteed. Experiencing a manufacturer defect doesn’t automatically qualify your vehicle as a lemon. For BMW lemon law cases to be valid, the vehicle must meet these guidelines:
- The BMW’s warranty was valid when the defect(s) was reported to the automaker; and
- The BMW model has one or more substantial defect(s) that compromises the safety, functionality, or value of the vehicle; and
- Certified repair technicians from BMW have made a reasonable number of repair attempts (usually at least two) to repair the defect(s); or
- The BMW model has been out of service for repairs for 30 or more cumulative days; and
- The defect was not due to driver neglect or abuse.
If you can prove your BMW vehicle meets these qualifications, your next step is to contact a CA lemon law lawyer to begin filing the case. You will need to have the proper documentation to prove your BMW has met the California lemon law guidelines. This includes repair orders, invoices, receipts, communication, and all other records related to the vehicle.
BMW Lemon Law FAQs
Are all BMW models covered under California lemon Law?
All models sold or leased with a manufacturer or dealer warranty may be eligible for benefits under California lemon law. The defect(s) must be reported to the manufacturer or dealer within the terms of the warranty. In other words, the warranty must be valid when you file the complaint.
What types of compensation can I seek under BMW lemon law?
Once your vehicle meets the qualifications of BMW lemon law California, you may pursue the following compensation:
- The total cost of the BMW (minus a mileage offset).
- Down payment
- Monthly payments made
- The remaining balance of the loan
- All official costs paid
- Sales tax
- Registration
- All incidental costs stemming from the lemon
- Towing fees
- Uber/Lyft/Cab fares
- Hotel stays
- Meals
- All attorney fees and court costs
May I seek compensation for a defective BMW if the warranty is expired?
BMW lemon law cases are only valid if the defect(s) was first reported to the manufacturer/dealership while the warranty was in effect. Even if the warranty expires during the repair process, it can still be eligible for benefits under California lemon law.
What is the time limit to file a claim under BMW lemon law?
There is a four-year statute of limitations in California for BMW lemon law cases. However, we strongly recommend filing a claim as soon as the vehicle meets the lemon law qualifications. A CA lemon law lawyer will help you understand your situation, help you file a claim, and fight to seek fair compensation.
The longer you wait to begin the process, the more difficult it will be to earn benefits. For instance, waiting a year to file a claim indicates that the defect was not very “substantial” – and the manufacturer will use this to deny your claim.
Most importantly, driving a defective vehicle puts you and other drivers in danger.
Do used vehicles qualify for BMW lemon law cases?
Yes. California is one of the few stats that extends lemon law benefits to used vehicles. Most dealerships sell vehicles with warranties that last 30 days or before 1,000 miles accrue on the odometer. If your vehicle meets the qualifications of BMW lemon law within the terms of the dealership warranty, it can be processed like new.
What happens if I bought my BMW “as is”?
The “as is” agreement in California means you take full responsibility for all defects and issues with the vehicle. Moreover, there is no warranty in place to protect you under California lemon law. Dealerships are required to specify whether a vehicle has a warranty or is being sold “as is” on the buyer’s guide.
What if there is no indication of a dealer warranty or “as is” agreement on the buyer’s guide?
If there is no specification to a warranty or “as is” agreement, the BMW will have an implied warranty of merchantability. This is an unspoken agreement stating the vehicle is fit for its intended purpose. These implied warranties are good for 60 days up to a year and cover the essential parts of the vehicle. Talk to an experienced CA lemon law lawyer to determine your options for seeking compensation.
How much does it cost to hire a CA lemon law lawyer for my defective BMW?
Manufacturers are required to pay for the consumer’s attorney fees as part of the buyback in BMW lemon law cases. For this reason, lemon law lawyers generally work on a contingency fee agreement. This means they will not charge you anything upfront out of pocket to take your case. They will make their fees as a percentage of the total settlement AFTER they win.
Should I Hire a Lawyer to Pursue a BMW Lemon Law California claim?
Yes, you absolutely should hire a CA lemon law lawyer to manage your claim with BMW. Even if you think there is no question as to whether your vehicle meets the qualifications, there are no guarantees in lemon law. The automaker has no intention of compensating consumers after selling faulty products – and they have high-powered defense teams to fight lemon claims.
A CA lemon law lawyer with experience working with BMW lemon law cases will know how to negotiate and fight for every penny you are owed.
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