Author: Cali Lemon Lawyers

Does your Jeep warranty cover the notorious ‘death wobble’? Understanding the conditions that lead to the death wobble, how to identify it, and the specifics of the Jeep warranty can help provide a definitive answer.

This article will explore warranty coverage for the Jeep death wobble and what to look out for to understand whether or not you’re covered under warranty.

If you’ve purchased or leased a defective Jeep with signs of the death wobble, we can help you receive compensation at no cost to you. Contact Cali Lemon Lawyers today for Jeep Lemon Law information! ¿Hablas Español? Contáctenos ahora para recibir más información.

Click Here To Pre-Qualify!

Warranty Coverage for Jeep Owners

The “Jeep death wobble” is a phenomenon often experienced when a Jeep encounters a bump or pothole at speeds over 45 mph, leading to a violent shaking of the vehicle. The primary concern here is whether this issue is covered by a warranty.

The warranty’s applicability hinges on the root cause of the wobble.

When the Jeep Death Wobble is Covered by Warranty

In scenarios where the wobble originates from a faulty suspension or compromised steering components, it’s typically viewed as a manufacturing defect. Such defects are generally covered under the Jeep’s standard three-year, 36,000-mile basic warranty. The terms of this warranty state that the manufacturer should bear the repair cost for any failures arising from manufacturing flaws within this period.

When the Jeep Death Wobble is Not Covered by Warranty

On the contrary, if the wobble is triggered by factors not associated with manufacturing or design defects, it could be categorized as standard ‘wear and tear.’ In these instances, Jeep may opt not to cover the issue under the warranty. This could include situations resulting from inadequate maintenance, accidents, or improper modifications.

In the event that the death wobble falls outside the purview of the Jeep warranty, the vehicle owner would need to bear the repair expenses. Depending on the precise cause and labor rates, these costs generally range between $200 and $400. Understanding these nuances can aid Jeep owners in effectively navigating the issue of the death wobble and its potential impact on their vehicle warranty.

The Death Wobble Warranty Extension Settlement

A recent Jeep “death wobble” class action lawsuit describes that 2018-2020 Jeep Wranglers and 2020 Jeep Gladiators have a mechanical flaw in the front suspension steering damper that is potentially dangerous for Jeep drivers. Other Jeep models are not exempt from experiencing the death wobble and also qualify for the warranty.

All affected vehicles are entitled to a warranty extension of up to eight years or 90,000 miles that will offer coverage for the repair and replacement of any suspension parts connected to the Jeep Death Wobble. These parts would include tie rods, ball joints, and control arms.

In addition to this, Jeep is also offering to pay attorney fees for affected Jeep owners and permit them to submit a claim for compensation for any paid repairs on their Jeep front suspension steering dampers.

Claims can be submitted through a reimbursement request form found here:

Filing a Warranty Claim for Jeep Death Wobble

To successfully file for the extended warranty claim offered in the Class Action Settlement, Jeep owners or lessees will need to ensure they have documented all the evidence and relevant information related to their death wobble repairs and payments. This evidence must point to issues experienced with their Jeep front suspension steering, causing the death wobble.

A Better Alternative

If you are experiencing the Death Wobble with your Jeep, you may be eligible to file a Lemon Law claim in California. Here’s a simplified guide to opting out of a lawsuit to pursue a Lemon Law claim, with a focus on contacting Cali Lemon Lawyers:

Consult a Lawyer

Reach out to Cali Lemon Lawyers for a consultation to understand your rights and options.

Opt-Out of Lawsuit

If you’re part of a class-action lawsuit, follow the instructions in the lawsuit notice to opt out, usually by submitting a written request to the court.

Gather Documents

Prepare your Jeep’s purchase documents, repair records, and any related correspondence.

Notify the Manufacturer

Send a written notice to the manufacturer, explaining the issue and requesting a final opportunity for them to repair the vehicle.

File a Lemon Law Claim

If the problem isn’t resolved, Cali Lemon Lawyers can help you file a formal Lemon Law claim.

Pursue the Claim

Your lawyers will guide you through the legal process, which may involve arbitration, mediation, or going to court.

Act Quickly

Lemon Law claims are time-sensitive. Cali Lemon Lawyers can help ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.

The Role of Jeep Manufacturers In Warranty Claims

Jeep manufacturers are expected to take authority and lead in the warranty claims process for vehicles with problems. According to California Lemon Law, manufacturers need to supply appropriate repair facilities, fix a vehicle that is under warranty, restore or redeem a vehicle if they cannot fix it, as well as finance the customer’s attorney costs.

Understanding The Jeep Death Wobble

What is the Jeep Death Wobble?

The “Death Wobble” will typically occur when your Jeep vehicle suddenly hits a bump at any speed but is more likely to occur at highway speeds. When this happens, the vehicle will begin to vibrate or shake violently, often leading drivers to panic. Since Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators come equipped with a solid front axle, this will make them more prone to the death wobble.

A major disadvantage to solid front axles is that, should one wheel bump into something, it can throw both the front wheels off balance, leading to a failed front suspension damper, especially if anything is unsecured or in poor condition. This issue can cause violent shaking and the steering wheel will sway back and forth uncontrollably.

Symptoms and Causes of the Jeep Death Wobble

The death wobble can be caused by loose or damaged steering components or steering and suspension parts that are not properly installed. The following components can cause a death wobble to occur:

Front track bar

Ball joints

Drag Link/Tie rod ends

Upper control arms

Lower control arms

Suspension bushings

Steering stabilizer

Steering knuckles

You will know you are experiencing a death wobble if your Jeep reacts in the following ways:

The steering wheel becomes hard to control due to the vehicle shaking uncontrollably.

You will struggle to keep the vehicle straight even while attempting to turn the steering wheel slightly to the left or right.

Your Jeep’s wheel alignment will be off and the tires will have rough wear from long drives.

You will notice loud thudding noises underneath your Jeep on bumpy roads.

Your suspension parts such as the ball joints, tie rods, and drag links will not be secured properly.

Fixes for the Jeep Death Wobble

Front Track Bar – The first thing to check is the front track bar. If you find that the bar is not secured properly or is broken, then it could be causing your Jeep to death wobble. Visually check the mounting parts and bushings, and use a torque wrench to secure the bolts and ensure they are at about 125lbs/ft.

Ball Joints – To inspect the ball joints, a jack can be used to lift up the front wheel to attempt to move it with your hands. The amount of “give” will indicate if the ball joint is bad or not. If it is bad, it will need to be replaced.

Tie Rods – If your front tires are already lifted up from checking the ball joints, have someone help you by moving the wheel to and fro while you observe the tie rods. If the ends jiggle and the rodd do not move, they will need to be replaced too.

Wheel Bearing – If your wheel bearings are worn out, this will cause a death wobble. With the front wheel still lifted, grab the top and bottom of the tire and try to jiggle or move it. If you notice some motion or pick up on a knocking sound, then your wheel bearing is likely off.

Will A Jeep Dealership Fix The Death Wobble?

The problem is easy to detect but there is no straightforward way to fix it. Mechanics will likely check your wheel alignment, steering components, ball joints, and other front axle suspension components and attempt to get them back in place securely. Dealerships may also offer to install a steering dampener as a fix. This may or may not fix the issue entirely to which you can then look into filing a warranty claim.

Preventative Measures for Jeep Owners

As a Jeep owner, knowing that your vehicle is prone to mechanical defects such as the death wobble, should prompt you to always ensure you do regular maintenance checks and inspections. Having your Jeep checked for any irregularities in your front suspension can save you from experiencing the death wobble firsthand. It can allow you to act swiftly in getting the necessary repairs to avoid the death wobble and can likely save you money when issues are attended to earlier rather than later when the damage is more significant and costly.

Claiming Your Warranty

The Jeep death wobble can be a dangerous mechanical failure for Jeep drivers on the road. Issues surrounding certain components of the front suspension system of Jeep vehicles, can send your car into frightening uncontrollable shaking and steering difficulties which are potentially dangerous and risky.

Jeep owners and lessees are entitled to an extended warranty with the necessary benefits to cover and compensate them for expenses related to their death wobble problems and repairs.

Do not hesitate to contact Cali Lemon Lawyers if you’re experiencing the Jeep death wobble. Allow us to provide you with the legal guidance and support you need during this challenging time. Remember, as a Jeep owner or lessee, you have rights, and we’re here to help you uphold them.

Even the best vehicles are not always perfect. The Honda CR V is no exception. Although Honda is a relatively reliable car with a solid reputation, it does have its fair share of common but serious problems.

This article will look at the various problems you might encounter as a Honda CR V vehicle owner, looking specifically at models from 2016 to 2023, and the model years with the most and least issues reported by many owners.

Having problems with your Honda CR-V? Our lemon law attorney attorneys at Cali Lemon Lawyers can help. Give us a call today or fill out the form below for a free case evaluation. ¿Hablas Español? Contáctenos ahora para recibir más información.

The Honda CR-V

The Honda CR V is a compact crossover SUV, a popular and trusted model making up the lineup of vehicles on offer by Honda. Since the first model was introduced back in 1997, the Honda CR V gained a good reputation for its reliability, affordability, and amazing features. Looking at the history of different Honda CR V models, there are a range of issues that have since become prevalent. Owners of different models of the Honda CR V have noted some common problems experienced over the years – the most common of which are reviewed below.

What are the biggest problems with the Honda CR V?

Some of the biggest and most prevalent complaints received by owners of the compact SUV were mostly centered around problems with the engine, the electronic system, problems with oil mechanics, the air conditioning system, and the braking system of the vehicle. Owners of the CR V consistently reported these issues over the years with various models.

4 Most Common Complaints and Reported Issues With The Honda CR-V

The Honda CR V has had a range of issues with its various models over the years, but some common and persistent issues reported by many owners keep arising. These common problems include air conditioning problems, engine issues, oil issues, sticky door locks, and electronic stability control complications.

Air conditioning system issues

The air conditioning system of the Honda CR V is notorious for receiving complaints from owners of the vehicle. A number of issues cause the air conditioning system to malfunction. The first is the air conditioner failing to blow cool air. A key cause of this is when the air compressor is damaged. A failed compressor is never ideal as it leads to more complications such as the clogging up of the A/C lines from a build-up of dirt and grease. An air conditioner struggling to blow cool air results in loud noises coming from the Honda CR V’s system. Owners who experience this problem need to prepare for the costs involved in fixing the air conditioning system of the car as it is quite expensive.

Engine issues

Some Honda CR V owners have experienced problems with their engines. Some of the issues include the smell of gas making its way into the inside of the vehicle due to fuel entering the oil. This can happen when the gas tank is overfilled. Some engines also struggle to heat up enough, this can be seen with models fitted with direct-injection engines. Losses in motive power as well as deceleration can also be experienced.

Oil issues

The Honda CR V also runs into some oil-related issues. Owners have reported excessive oil consumption problems and this seems to be one of the most reported issues with the vehicle. To make the matter worse, some report that the oil light also fails to notify them when the oil dipstick has run dry. Oil dilution is another problem with the Honda CR V. This occurs when the engine is so efficient it causes the vehicle to take much longer to heat up and get rid of gasoline. The engine tires out faster when the oil is diluted. This can potentially lead to engine damage if not attended to soon.

Problems with door locks

The door locks of the Honda CR V are also known to give owners a hassle. Door locks have been reported to be quite sticky and get stuck in the lock position. This can make it hard to keep your car safe as well as inconvenience you when you need to get in and out of the vehicle with ease. Purchasing new lock tumblers and having the locks replaced will fix this issue.

Honda CR V Electronic Stability Control Problems

Any vehicle with electronic stability control issues can pose a danger to its driver and other motorists on the road. Not being in control of key components of your vehicle is dangerous. Honda is quite prone to these issues and they mainly consist of problems surrounding the braking system which has been reported to fail at times, issues with the steering wheel, and involuntary acceleration or deceleration which can be extremely dangerous while driving. Oil problems can also affect other components of the car such as the engine while tire pressure is another stability control issue that can lead to loss of control at any time. A loss in motive power is also included as an electronic stability control issue. Ensuring that all your electronic stability control complications are sorted out, can save your life and your vehicle.

Honda CR V problems (2016-2023)

Honda CR V’s have had various problems over the years. Here are some issues reported on Honda CR V’s with models from 2016 to 2023:

2023 Honda CR-V Problems

Issues arising from the latest Honda CR V included varied braking problems where the automatic braking system failed to stop the vehicle. Considering how dangerous faulty brakes can be, a go-to fix for this is to get your braking system checked and possibly tested for system failures. Some electric system malfunctions also occurred with this model leading to the replacement of the power control unit.

2022 Honda CR-V Problems

Issues you can find in the 2022 Honda CR V model include faulty brakes. Faulty brakes can be extremely dangerous as they can cause collisions and be life-threatening. Brakes deploying for no reason and braking failures have also been noted by CR V owners. Once again, it is important to attend to this issue by having a dealership mechanic check your braking system and fix it. The 2022 model experiences powertrain issues including transmission failures. One fix to this was to have the driveshaft checked to see if the bolts were fastened tightly enough. This problem is covered by Honda’s warranty. The electrical system of the car was known to cause fires and diagnostic testing was needed.

2021 Honda CR-V Problems

The 2021 Honda CR V was known for its issues with the automatic braking system. Phantom braking would occur when the vehicle brakes on its own or simply fails. Having the dealership look into the problem and fix it by adjusting the system, was crucial. The engine of this particular year’s model also experienced a loss of motive power and deceleration, likely due to differential seal leaks. This too, needed to be checked and tested by a dealership mechanic.

2020 Honda CR-V Problems

Problems that occurred with the 2020 Honda CR V included the failure of the electrical system to communicate problems effectively. A fix to this would be to take your vehicle to the service center to get the system tested and fixed accordingly. Quality concerns with the engine were also a problem with the same issue of fuel entering the oil. Issues with the vehicle’s structure and a decline in its durability were also noted with rusting being detected on the engine’s exhaust pipes and system. A fix for this is not clear but some dealership mechanics noted this as normal. The brake system experienced problems, and complications with faulty steering occurred, making it hard for owners to steer properly while driving.

2019 Honda CR-V Problems

Owners of the 2019 Honda CR V have reported failures with their airbags failing to deploy when they need to. Some electrical system failures specifically with the battery continue to prevail due to the vehicle’s start failures. Battery repairs and replacements were a common fix. The brakes of this CR V model have been reported faulty with the only fix being brake checks and repairs by a mechanic. Defective steering remained a problem. The only fix to this was to get your vehicle’s steering wheel malfunction checked to ensure your safety while driving.

2018 Honda CR-V Problems

CR V owners of the 2018 model reported issues with the engine and fuel system. This model contained a direct-injected engine. This design of the vehicle leads to fuel finding its way into the engine oil. Afix to this problem would be to check the oil frequently. Honda dealers were also instructed on their end, to reprogram the CR V’s onboard computer and engine control module. This model also experienced electrical problems with the Honda Sensing Suite. Malfunctions would cause the suite to light up various warning lights and some safety functions would not work. Owners reported that they would have to restart their vehicle in order to fix this issue.

2017 Honda CR-V Problems

The 2017 Honda CR V was not without engine problems according to owners. The oil levels would be overfilled and cause a gas smell and slow heating of the engine. Overfilled oil levels caused by fuel in the oil were mainly due to fuel injection which Honda hoped to fix via a software update. Owners were encouraged to check and change their oil more frequently. The battery of this model also received the most complaints. Issues around dead batteries were frequently reported and common fixes would be to replace the battery or get it checked and tested by a mechanic/technician.

2016 Honda CR-V Problems

Most complaints with the 2016 model were related to issues surrounding the failure of the engine valves caused by issues such as bad quality control, faulty manufacturing, and poor maintenance. The engine valves would need to be replaced as well as any other engine parts if the faulty valves caused further damage within the engine. Engines leaking of oil was another issue with the 2016 model. Caused by damaged oil seals, faulty gaskets, or damaged oil pumps, this issue was fixed by a mechanic finding the cause of the leak and repairing or replacing any damaged parts.

What Should I Do If My Honda CR V Is Experiencing These Issues?

If your Honda CR V is experiencing some of these issues, it is crucial that you contact your nearest dealership and consult for repairs. Take into consideration that consistent problems and repairs that still leave you with a problematic CR V, might mean that your Honda is a Lemon car and you may need to seek legal assistance through Lemon Law.

Cali Lemon Lawyers are considered experts in the handling of many Lemon Law-related claims for defective vehicles such as the Honda CR V. If you find yourself stuck in consistent complications with your Honda CR V, they are equipped to help you through the process of filing claims on your car.

Always make sure that you have kept a record of all repairs and maintenance your Honda CR V has undergone as this will come in handy in your Lemon Law case.

Honda CR V model years with the most problems

As expected, some Honda CR V’s fell into the model years with some of the most reported problems. If you owned or still own a Honda CR V from the years 2017, 2018 and 2019 you would have likely experienced the most problems.

Summary

The Honda car brand has made a good name for itself in the motor industry and the popularity of the Honda CR V is evident. The compact SUV has attracted many consumers but it does come with its fair share of dangerous mechanical and electrical issues.

The Honda CR V will run into issues with its engine, air conditioning, braking, oil components, and more, all of which can pose a serious threat to the functioning of the car. If your Honda CR V is prone to these complications you might have a Lemon on your hands.

The Cali Lemon Lawyers can help you with your Honda Lemon Law warranty claims.

Is your car completely dead? A completely dead car is no fun for anyone, especially when you’re trying to figure out the cause so you can fix it. In this article we’ll go through all of the most common reasons why your car might be dead along with the best possible solutions for each.

If your car is completely dead while under warranty, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Cali Lemon Lawyers for a free case evaluation today. Leverage in-depth knowledge of regulations to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair treatment.

See If You Qualify!

8 Common Causes & Solutions for A Completely Dead Car

1. Car Battery Problems

A dead car battery is one of the most common causes of a completely dead car.

Here is a guide on how to check for a dead car battery:

• Visual Inspection: Look for damage or corrosion on the car’s battery terminals and check for a bloated or leaking car battery case.
• Interior Lights & Accessories: Test if the interior lights, headlights, and accessories like the radio are working properly. Dim or non-working lights could indicate a dead or weak battery and necessitate a new battery.
• Multimeter Test: Use a multimeter to measure the car battery’s voltage. A healthy car battery should read around 12.6 volts when the car is off. Significantly lower readings may indicate car battery failure.
• Car’s Starting Reaction: Pay attention to how the car reacts when starting. Slow cranking or failure to start could be signs of car battery problems.
• Professional Battery Test: Consider getting a free car battery test at an auto parts store or garage. They use specialized equipment to assess your car battery’s energy capacity.

Potential solutions:

• Jump Start: Use another car battery or a (second car) booster car to jump start your car. Note that jump starting is a temporary solution and may not work with a faulty or dead car battery.
• Charge the Battery: If your car battery is drained but undamaged, try charging the battery using a car battery charger.
• Clean Terminals: Corroded terminals can hinder car battery power supply. Cleaning them might restore functionality.
• Check Electrolyte Level: For a traditional lead acid battery, refill low electrolyte levels with distilled water if applicable. Modern sealed car batteries typically don’t require this maintenance.
• Replace the Battery: If your car battery is dead, damaged, or old, consider replacing it with a new battery.
• Check the Alternator: If your battery’s charge struggle to hold but your car battery appears fine, the car’s alternator may be the issue. Consult a mechanic to assess and potentially replace the alternator.

2. Engine Failure

This is the most serious issue and can occur due to various reasons such as overheating, lack of oil, or general wear and tear.

Potential solutions:

• Stop Driving Immediately: If the car’s engine is showing signs of severe distress, continuing to drive could lead to even greater damage. Find a safe place to pull over as soon as possible and have the vehicle towed to a reliable mechanic or auto repair shop.
• Repair or Replace: Depending on the severity of the problem, it may be possible to repair the engine. However, in some cases, a complete engine replacement may be necessary. Discuss your options with the mechanic to understand the cost implications and whether it makes sense given the value of your vehicle.

3. Starter Motor Issues

If the starter motor is faulty, it won’t be able to crank the engine, and your car won’t start.

Potential solutions:

• Check the Starter Relay: The starter relay is a small electrical component that sends a large electrical current to the starter from the car battery when you turn the key. If it’s malfunctioning, it could be preventing the starter motor from receiving enough electricity to work properly.
• Try the “Tap” Trick: In some cases, gently tapping the starter motor with a tool like a hammer can help. This can free a stuck gear within the starter. But be careful not to hit it too hard, or you could cause damage.
• Check for Loose Connections: Ensure that the electrical connections to the starter are tight and free of corrosion.

4. Fuel System Problems

This could include a malfunctioning fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a problem with the injectors, any of which could prevent the engine from receiving the fuel it needs to run.

Potential solutions:

• Evaluate your fuel filter: A clogged fuel filter, due to impurities, impedes fuel flow to the engine and should be replaced.
• Assess the fuel pump: A failing pump, identifiable by symptoms like engine sputtering at high speeds, power loss during acceleration, stalling, or a whining noise, may not provide adequate fuel.
• Check fuel injectors: Clogged or improperly functioning injectors can be cleaned or replaced to rectify any issues.
• Inspect fuel lines: Ensure fuel lines are not blocked or leaking, and are in good condition.
• Use Diagnostic Tools: A diagnostic scan tool, beneficial for identifying fuel system issues, can read trouble codes pinpointing the problem.

5. Ignition System Problems

This might involve a faulty ignition switch, ignition coil, distributor cap, rotor, or spark plugs.

Potential solutions:

• Assess spark plugs: Replacement might be necessary if they’re worn or fouled, causing ignition issues.
• Check ignition coils/coil packs: These generate the voltage for spark plugs. If malfunctioning, they might not supply adequate voltage, causing weak or no spark.
• Inspect the distributor cap and rotor: If present in your car, look for cracks, corrosion, or wear. Faulty components can disrupt electricity distribution to spark plugs.
• Evaluate ignition wires: These carry electricity from coils to spark plugs. Damage can disrupt the ignition system, so check for cracks, wear, or other issues.
• Test the ignition switch: A faulty switch might not provide enough power to the ignition system for the car to start.
• Scan for trouble codes: A car diagnostic scanner can identify trouble codes, helping pinpoint the problem source.

6. Timing Belt Failure

A broken timing belt can cause breakdowns as it synchronizes crankshaft and camshaft rotations.

Possible Solutions:

• Stop driving: Avoid engine damage, especially in interference design engines.
• Replace the timing belt: If failed or close to failure, replace the belt. This complex task should be done by a professional.

7. Transmission Failure

Transmission issues can prevent car movement despite a running engine.

Possible Solutions:

• Check transmission fluid: Fill up low or replace dirty/burnt fluid.
• Use a diagnostic tool: Scan for error codes indicating the issue.
• Repair or replace transmission: Depending on damage severity, repair or replace the transmission and weigh costs against potentially replacing the vehicle.

8. Electrical System Issues

Problems in computer or electrical components can prevent car start-up.

Possible Solutions:

• Check the car battery: Inspect for damage, ensure clean, secure connections, and test voltage. Charge or replace with new battery, if needed.
• Inspect fuses and relays: A blown fuse or bad relay could be the issue. Refer to the owner’s manual for their locations.
• Check the alternator: If malfunctioning, it could cause electrical problems.
• Evaluate ground connections: Ensure clean, tight, corrosion-free connections.
• Use a diagnostic tool: Scan for trouble codes to identify the problem source.

Consulting a Professional

All of these problems can be tricky to diagnose and fix. If you can’t identify or fix the problem yourself, you should take your car to a mechanic. They’ll have the knowledge and tools to diagnose and repair the problem correctly.

10 Other Possible Causes of A Completely Dead Car

1. Security System Malfunction

Sometimes, a car’s anti-theft system can mistakenly prevent the car from starting. If you suspect this, try resetting the system according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If this doesn’t work, it may be necessary to consult a professional to diagnose and reset the system.

2. Clutch Issues

For manual cars, a faulty clutch safety switch can prevent the car from starting. You can test this by trying to start the car in neutral without engaging the clutch. If it starts, it’s likely the switch. Replacement typically requires a qualified mechanic.

3. Neutral Safety Switch Malfunction

In an automatic vehicle, if the neutral safety switch (which allows the car to start only in park or neutral) fails, the car won’t start or might not start. You could try to clean and lubricate the switch, but replacement is often necessary and should be carried out by a professional.

4. Fuses and Relays

A blown fuse or a bad relay can interrupt power to vital internal components, preventing the car from starting. Inspect the fuses and relays associated with the ignition system for any visible damage, and replace any that are faulty. A vehicle service manual can help you locate these.

5. Camshaft or Crankshaft Sensor Failure

These sensors provide important data to the car’s computer system. If either fails, the car’s engine may not start or may run poorly. Use an OBD2 scanner to verify the problem. If a sensor is at fault, a professional should replace it.

6. Mass Airflow Sensor Failure

This sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine to determine how much fuel to deliver. If it’s faulty, the engine may not run properly. Cleaning the sensor with a specialized cleaner can sometimes solve the problem. However, in more severe cases, you might need to replace the sensor.

7. Problems with the ECU (Engine Control Unit)

The ECU is the car’s “brain.” If it has problems, it might not manage engine functions correctly. Resetting or replacing the ECU is a complex task and is best left to professionals.

8. Fuel Quality Issues

Sometimes, contaminated or poor-quality fuel can cause engine problems. If you suspect this, try using a different brand or grade of fuel. If the problem persists, a fuel system cleaner may help, but the fuel tank and system may need professional cleaning or even repair.

9. Catalytic Converter Failure

While a failed catalytic converter typically doesn’t prevent the car from starting, it can cause the engine to run very poorly or not at all in some cases. An OBD2 scanner can help confirm the issue, but replacement should be done by a professional.

10. Vacuum Leaks

A leak in the vacuum system can affect engine performance and may prevent the car engine from running. Listen for a hissing sound while the engine is running; this is a common symptom. DIY methods include the carb cleaner test or a smoke test, but professional diagnosis and repair are often required.

Seeking Compensation for a Completely Dead Car

Types of Compensation for Completely Dead Vehicles

When your vehicle becomes completely dead and qualifies as a “lemon” under California’s Lemon Law, you may be entitled to specific forms of compensation.

Refund: This typically includes the down payment, monthly payments, and the payoff of the loan balance. It’s important to note that the manufacturer may deduct a usage fee based on the mileage on your car before it first went in for repair.

Replacement Vehicle: Alternatively, you may choose to receive a replacement vehicle. This would be a similar model to the defective one, and of the same value.

Cash Compensation: You might receive cash compensation, including reimbursement for repair costs, towing charges, rental car costs, and any other related out-of-pocket expenses incurred due to your defective vehicle.

Inconvenience and Other Damages: Compensation could be given for other damages like personal inconvenience, emotional distress, and even punitive damages if the manufacturer’s conduct is found to be particularly bad.

Successful Cases by Cali Lemon Lawyers

Cali Lemon Lawyers have helped numerous clients secure favorable outcomes in their Lemon Law claims. For instance, in one case, a client with a car that suffered multiple engine failures was provided with a full refund of the purchase price. In another case, a client whose vehicle had recurring electrical system problems was given a brand new replacement vehicle of the same model and make. There have also been cases where our clients were awarded significant cash settlements to compensate for repair costs and other related expenses.

Legal Rights under Lemon Laws

Lemon laws in the US offer remedies for consumers with cars that repeatedly fail to meet quality and performance standards. These laws protect against significant defects within a certain period post-purchase and compel manufacturers to honor their warranties. They aim to compensate for defective products not fixed after several attempts.

Lemon Laws Across States and Specifics in California

In California, these laws apply to new and used vehicles sold or leased with a warranty, including passenger vehicles, trucks, SUVs, certain motorhome components, and dealer-owned and demonstrator vehicles. If a warranted vehicle has continuous, unfixable defects, the manufacturer must replace the vehicle or refund the purchase price.

Criteria for a “Lemon” and Legal Remedies

A “lemon” car has a major warranty-covered defect that remains after multiple repair attempts, usually a serious safety defect repaired twice or a non-safety defect fixed four times, or if the car is out of service for over 30 days within the first 18 months or 18,000 miles. If these conditions are met, a replacement or refund is due. Legal recourse is usually through courts, although many manufacturers offer arbitration programs.

Lemon Law Claims and Dead Cars

Filing a Lemon Law Claim for a Completely Dead Car

When your car becomes completely dead and meets the criteria under the Lemon Law, you can pursue a Lemon Law claim. The process involves a series of steps starting with documentation and ending with potential legal assistance.

Cali Lemon Lawyers play a crucial role in guiding you through the lemon law claim process in California. We assist in gathering and organizing necessary documentation, drafting the manufacturer notice, and representing clients during arbitration or litigation proceedings. With our specialized knowledge of the California Lemon Law, we provide invaluable guidance to navigate your process and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to under the law. Our goal is to make the process less stressful and more successful for you.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve read through this article about what to do if your car is completely dead, you should know exactly what actions to take in each situation and all considerations to take into account.

There are various common signs, causes and solutions for your car being completely dead. Being able to identify these common signs is crucial in making sure you get your car back to operating condition and assuring that you are compensated for any problems that should not have occurred.

Although there are many ways to take it upon yourself to fix your car, consulting a professional mechanic will help guarantee that you are not making a mistake.

For expert advice and representation in lemon law and consumer protection, contact Cali Lemon Lawyers. Our experts will put your legal rights to use in the case of a completely dead car and provide the most favorable outcome for you.