California Lemon Law covers the chassis and drivetrain components of recreational vehicles and motorhomes. While the living quarters may not be covered, mechanical defects that affect the drivability of your RV are fully protected under the Song-Beverly Act.
Key Takeaways
California Lemon Law covers the chassis and drivetrain of an RV or motorhome through the Song-Beverly Act, so if a covered mechanical defect keeps coming back during the warranty period, you may be owed a buyback or a replacement. The protection follows the parts that make the coach drivable, not the residential build-out.
owners of a Class A, B, or C motorhome bought or leased with a manufacturer warranty, when a covered defect was first reported during that warranty.
generally four or more repair attempts at the same defect, two or more for a safety problem like failing brakes or steering, or 30 cumulative days out of service.
a buyback that refunds your down payment, monthly payments, and loan payoff, a comparable replacement coach, or a cash settlement where you keep the RV.
nothing out of pocket. Song-Beverly shifts your attorney fees and costs to the manufacturer, so you pay no fee unless you win.
from the chassis maker, the coach builder, and component makers, and the claim attaches to whichever one covers the failing part, usually the chassis or powertrain warranty.
Engine and transmission failures
Chassis and frame issues
Generator malfunctions
Electrical system problems
Brake system failures
Steering defects
Suspension problems
Fuel system issues
RVs are often far more expensive than a car or truck, when you spend that much, you have every right to expect it to be safe. California Lemon Law isn't limited to cars and trucks; recreational vehicles are protected too. Covered RV types include:
If your RV qualifies as a lemon, you can return it for a full refund of your down payment and monthly loan payments, require a replacement as good as or better than the lemon, or accept a settlement and keep the vehicle. Because the state and federal Lemon Laws are similar but not identical, we recommend having a Lemon Law lawyer guide you so you don't miss out on compensation.
Beyond the buyback or replacement itself, you can be reimbursed for many costs tied to your defective RV, including:
Sales tax and registration fees
Repair bills not covered by the manufacturer
Incidental costs like tow trucks
Hotel bills if you were stranded out of town
Your exact reimbursement depends on what you choose to do with the RV. Return it for a refund and you're entitled to registration fees you paid; keep it and the manufacturer won't reimburse fees you'll keep using. An experienced lemon lawyer makes sure nothing eligible is left on the table.
Straight answers on how the Song-Beverly Act applies to recreational vehicles. For coverage on a used coach still under a manufacturer warranty, see our used vehicle Lemon Law page, and read more about how warranty terms shape a claim.
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a month ago
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a month ago
Though I had to learn the virtue of patience (it took a little time), I had an excellent experience with the Pros, from beginning to end. The entire team was professional, knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely committed to helping me through my lemon law case. They kept me informed throughout the process, answered my questions promptly, and handled everything with integrity and professionalism. They achieved a successful outcome on my behalf ($27,600). I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of a knowledgeable and trustworthy lemon law attorney. Thank you for your patience with me and for your outstanding service!
2 months ago
Trust the process. Suzy and Anthony were able to get me a buy back from GM after constant issues with the transmission. Suzy was patient explaining everything and returned my calls/emails/text within 24hrs. She’s the best. Anthony (Tony) was straight forward and did everything he could to get me my money. No BS, or changes at the end. It’s a process but they know what they are doing. Delivered on everything he promised. Thank you for all the help and it was worth the wait. I was able to get a new car because of you guys.
2 months ago
The Lemon pros Worked with me During a time, I’m in my life, where I was going through a lot of transitions. They were professional, and very patient as I was not always disposable or able to find paperwork for my claim. It was not overnight, but when the day came for The Lemon pros to negotiate my settlement, It was a glorious outcome. I Told the Lemon pros get me at least $10,000 and I’ll be Happy, And what did they do? They hit the ball out of the park!!!! and got me a settlement of $17,500!!!! And I got The Check without amount to prove it!!! Thanks, Lemon pros!!!!!
9 months ago
I couldn’t be more grateful for the outstanding team at The Lemon Pros. Their team was fantastic from start to finish, always responsive, professional, and committed to keeping me informed every step of the way. Their follow-through was exceptional and their determination truly made a difference in achieving a positive outcome in my case. I’m so glad I chose them to represent me and I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking a dedicated and reliable team.
Reviews reflect individual experiences. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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