Currently there are only two Chrysler models being manufactured: the 300 sedan and the Pacifica minivan. With declining production and waning sales, some have speculated this is the end of the once-mighty Chrysler empire. However, parent company Stellantis will relaunch the brand as an all-electric carmaker by 2028, with the first model available by 2024.
When manufactured properly, Chrysler cars and trucks are convenient and affordable. However, Chrysler has also been known to produce lemons that need constant repairs. In fact, Chrysler has been embroiled in numerous lemon law cases and class-action lawsuits due to various problems, such as faulty transmission, engine issues, and airbag defects.
Here are just a few of the recent Chrysler recalls:
- 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV: The rearview camera may not display an image. This could make it difficult to see while backing up, which could increase the risk of a crash.
- 2017-2023 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV: The high-voltage battery cooling system malfunctioned, leading to the battery overheating, which could increase the risk of a fire.
- 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300: The windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash.
- 2022 Chrysler 300 and 2022 Dodge Challenger and Charger: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor battery failed prematurely and caused the sensor to become inoperative. This could lead to inaccurate tire pressure readings, which could increase the risk of a crash.
What is wrong with your Chrysler?
The California Lemon Law (Civ. Code, § 1793.2 et seq.) protects you when your vehicle is defective and cannot be repaired after a “reasonable” number of attempts. The defect must be significant enough that it substantially impairs the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. In these cases, an owner may qualify for a buyback or a new replacement vehicle.
Some of the most common issues in Chrysler vehicles include:
- Break system including noises and total failure
- Computer and electrical malfunctions
- Engine failure including power loss, stalling, and overheating
- Loud clunking noises from the transmission or difficulty shifting gears
- Power steering problems such as stiffness, noise while turning, and leaks
- Total electrical shutdown
- Total engine shutdown while driving
- Unresponsive gas pedal
California’s lemon law applies to new vehicles repaired by the manufacturer or dealership under the manufacturer’s warranty. New vehicles include those that are purchased, leased, or rentals and trade ins. However, a consumer may still be protected even after the warranty has expired, as long as the vehicle was repaired while under warranty.
In response to the lemon laws enacted by various states, Chrysler has designed its own Lemon Law Buyback program to support its consumers. This is Chrysler’s effort to uphold its promise of delivering quality and reliable vehicles and to maintain the trust of its consumers. If a Chrysler vehicle is determined to be a lemon under state law, the consumer is entitled to a replacement vehicle or a money refund.
How a lawyer can help
Do you have a lemon law case? There are several challenges when filing a lemon law claim or navigating a buyback program, and working with an expert lemon law lawyer is paramount. They can help you determine if your car qualifies as a lemon law car, and fight the deceptive tactics big auto manufacturers and dealerships use.
California lemon law is part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act and is supplemented by the Tanner Consumer Protection Act. These laws protect consumers throughout the manufacturer’s warranty period and even require the manufacturer to cover their legal fees.
Knowing and understanding your rights is critical to ensuring your fair treatment. Don’t wait – call a lemon law lawyer today and discuss your options.