California has long been known for having one of the strongest Lemon Laws in the United States. But in 2025, significant changes arrived with Assembly Bill 1755 (AB 1755). These California AB 1755 Lemon Law reforms adjust key deadlines, introduce new requirements, and spark heated debate among lawmakers, consumer advocates, and automakers. If you are a car owner or planning to file a Lemon Law claim in California, understanding these updates is crucial.
What Is AB 1755 and Why Does It Matter?
AB 1755, signed into law in 2024 and rolled out in two phases (January 1 and April 1, 2025), makes several adjustments to the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act. The law was originally designed to protect buyers of defective vehicles, requiring automakers to replace or repurchase cars that could not be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. However, lawmakers claimed the system needed reform to balance consumer protections with fair treatment for manufacturers.
The result is a law that shortens filing deadlines, adds new pre-suit notice requirements, and shifts the legal landscape for Lemon Law attorneys and their clients.
Key Changes Under California AB 1755 Lemon Law Reforms
Here are the most important updates every consumer and attorney should know:
1. New Statute of Limitations
Previously, Lemon Law cases in California could be filed within four years of the consumer discovering a defect. Under AB 1755, cases must now be filed:
- Within one year after the warranty expires, and
- No later than six years from the vehicle’s delivery date.
This stricter deadline means consumers must act more quickly once they notice persistent problems with their vehicles.
2. Mandatory Pre-Suit Notice
Effective April 1, 2025, consumers must send a written notice to the manufacturer at least 30 days before filing a lawsuit. This notice must include:
- The vehicle identification number (VIN).
- A summary of repair attempts.
- A request for repurchase or replacement.
The goal is to give automakers a final chance to resolve the dispute before litigation begins.
3. Stricter Documentation Requirements
Consumers must now provide more detailed repair records and communications when making Lemon Law claims. Without this evidence, cases risk being delayed or dismissed.
4. Impact on Attorney Fees
Although not a direct part of AB 1755, these reforms come at a time when attorney billing under Lemon Law is under intense scrutiny due to lawsuits like the Ford overbilling scandal. Together, these changes may influence how courts evaluate legal costs in Lemon Law cases.
Why Consumer Advocates Are Concerned
While supporters argue that AB 1755 prevents unnecessary lawsuits and encourages faster resolutions, critics believe it weakens consumer rights. Advocacy groups warn that:
- Shorter deadlines may prevent valid claims from being filed.
- Mandatory notice gives manufacturers more leverage to stall or deny claims.
- Extra paperwork could discourage consumers from pursuing their rights.
In February 2025, California lawmakers even began drafting potential “fixes” to AB 1755 after consumer groups voiced concern that the reforms tipped the balance too far in favor of automakers.
What This Means for California Car Owners
If you own or lease a vehicle in California, the AB 1755 Lemon Law reforms mean you need to be more proactive:
- Track Repairs Closely: Keep copies of all service records, invoices, and communications with dealerships or manufacturers.
- Act Quickly: Do not delay if your car shows repeated defects. The new deadlines mean time is limited.
- Send Pre-Suit Notice Correctly: Make sure your 30-day notice includes all required details, otherwise your lawsuit could be dismissed.
Consumers who fail to follow these steps may lose their chance to file a claim, even if their car is clearly a lemon.
How Attorneys Are Adapting
For Lemon Law attorneys, AB 1755 requires updated strategies. Lawyers must educate clients about the shorter timelines, carefully draft pre-suit notices, and maintain airtight documentation. Some firms are also offering workshops or free consultations to help car owners understand the reforms before it is too late.
Practical Tips for Filing Lemon Law Claims in 2025
If you’re navigating California’s Lemon Law system under AB 1755, here are some practical steps:
- Consult a lawyer early—don’t wait until warranty expiration is near.
- Organize a repair log with dates, issues, and dealer responses.
- Send the pre-suit notice via certified mail to ensure proof of delivery.
- Follow up in writing with the manufacturer if they fail to respond within 30 days.
By taking these steps, you strengthen your case and avoid delays caused by incomplete documentation.
The Future of Lemon Law in California
The California AB 1755 Lemon Law reforms are still new, and their full impact will unfold in the coming years. Courts will interpret the statute, attorneys will test its limits, and lawmakers may amend it again if consumers face unfair barriers. What is certain is that California’s Lemon Law remains a battleground between powerful automakers and advocates fighting to preserve consumer protections.
Final Thoughts
California’s Lemon Law has always been one of the strongest in the country. But AB 1755 is reshaping the legal landscape in ways that both consumers and attorneys must understand. By staying informed, acting quickly, and following the new rules carefully, car owners can still assert their rights effectively under the updated law.