There's a common misconception that California Lemon Law only protects consumers who have unknowingly purchased a faulty car. In truth, it applies to a range of consumer goods, including boats.
However, to take full advantage of the protections offered under Lemon Law for boats, you must first understand the legal requirements and limitations. Here’s what you need to know before filing a claim.
How Does Lemon Law Apply to Boats?
To meet the qualifying criteria for a lemon law boat claim, you need:
- An active manufacturer/extended warranty, with claims filed within one year of the warranty’s expiration
- A persistent mechanical or non-mechanical issue that makes the boat unsafe or impossible to operate
- At least two failed repair attempts by the manufacturer or an authorized dealer or 30+ cumulative days spent in the repair shop
How Does California Lemon Law for Boats Protect Consumers?
If your boat meets eligibility requirements, you may be entitled to a:
- Full refund or replacement: Consumers who meet Lemon Law for boat requirements may be entitled to a full refund of the purchase price or a replacement watercraft of comparable value.
- Manufacturer buyback: Manufacturers are required to buy back the boat at the original price minus a deduction for consumer use.
- Reimbursement of expenses: This includes registration fees, finance charges, repair costs, and other expenses.
2025 Updates Regarding Lemon Law For Boats
While California still extends protection to boat owners in 2025, you should be aware of Lemon Law changes that went into effect this year. As of January 1, you must:
✓ File your Lemon Law for boats case within one year of your warranty expiration—even if you discover defects later
✓ Notify the manufacturer of the defect before filing a lawsuit
✓ Go through a mediation process with a neutral third party; if mediation does not resolve the dispute, you may be able to move forward with a legal claim
While these updates require additional steps, our Lemon Law boat attorneys understand the claims process and will help streamline it. We'll help pre-file notices, gather appropriate documentation, guide you through mediation, and track the manufacturer's replacement and buyback deadlines.
How to Pursue a Lemon Law For Boats Case?
Before pursuing a Lemon Law claim, you must take the following steps:
- Allow the manufacturer or authorized dealer two attempts to fix the defect
- If the manufacturer fails to address the defect after two or more attempts (or your vehicle spends 30 cumulative days in repair), you must send a formal complaint to the manufacturer, notifying them of the defect and possible litigation
- Manufacturers have 30 days to respond to your formal complaint and 60 days to meet your request for a buyback or replacement boat
- If you do not reach a favorable agreement with the manufacturer within this timeframe, gather the following documents:
- Proof of warranty
- Repair records
- Records of any communication you’ve had with the manufacturer
- Finally, schedule a free consultation with an attorney at CA Consumer Law APC
In Deep Water With a Defective Boat? We Can Help.
Have questions about Lemon Law for boats? Has the manufacturer failed to address persistent issues with your watercraft? The attorneys at CA Consumer Law APC understand the complexities of boat-related Lemon Law claims and can help protect your rights. Contact us today!
