The Honda Accord is one of the most popular and reliable sedans on the road. It’s praised for its fuel efficiency, smooth handling, and durability, but sometimes consumers get unlucky and end up with an Accord that constantly breaks down or refuses to function properly. What do you do when this keeps happening, no matter how often you take it to the dealership?
If this sounds like your situation, you might have a lemon, and the Honda Accord Lemon Law is here to protect you. This article will cover common issues reported by Accord owners and guide you through the process of filing a claim. If your car isn’t working as it should, don’t ignore the problem. Read up to discover the legal options available and how you can get compensated.
What is the Honda Lemon Law, and How Does it Apply to the Accord?
The California Lemon Law is a powerful protection tool that safeguards anyone who ends up with a defective vehicle. It applies to new and used cars (sold with a manufacturer’s warranty) that have a significant defect that affects their:
- Safety — Brakes failing, airbags not deploying, etc.
- Use — Transmission slipping, engine stalling, or rough idling
- Value — Persistent electrical failures, warning lights staying on, etc.
If Honda or an authorized dealership cannot fix your car after multiple attempts, you may qualify for a Lemon Law claim. As the owner, this means you may be eligible for a replacement vehicle or a refund. The goal of the lemon law is to ensure that consumers aren’t stuck with a defective product that can’t be repaired.
Most Common Honda Accord Ailments
Even though the Honda Accord has a strong reputation, some models have been plagued with serious defects. If you’re dealing with any of the problems listed below, your Accord might be a lemon:
Transmission Complaints
Many Accord owners have reported serious transmission issues, such as jerking or hesitation when shifting gears. Other problems include loud clunking noises, complete transmission failure, and slipping gears that can cause sudden changes in speed.
These transmission failures are especially common in 2013-2017 models. If your Accord is stuck in the repair shop due to these problems, it’s time to consider a Honda Lemon Law claim.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Many owners have reported that their Honda Accord burns oil at an alarming rate, especially models with the 1.5L turbocharged engine. Symptoms include low oil levels between scheduled oil changes, engine misfires due to oil starvation, and the check engine light staying on, even after repairs.
Electrical System Failures
Modern Honda Accords come with high-tech features, but many owners have reported persistent electrical problems. Examples include:
- Infotainment screen freezing or blacking out
- Key fob not working properly
- Car failing to turn on or start, even with a new battery
- Power windows and locks malfunctioning
If your Accord’s electrical system has been failing and the dealership can’t fix it, don’t ignore the problem. A Lemon Law claim could get you the compensation you deserve.
Brake System Malfunctions
Brakes are one of the most critical safety features of any vehicle. Some Honda Accord models have experienced serious braking issues where the brake pads wear out too quickly or make grinding noises after being replaced. Sometimes, it’s a case of the Electronic Brake Assist not engaging properly or unexpected braking without driver input.
Airbag and Seatbelt Failures
Manufacturers install airbags and seatbelts into vehicles because it saves lives. However, some Accord models have had serious safety defects in this area, where airbags don’t deploy in a crash. There have also been cases linked to recalls of exploding Takata airbags and faulty seatbelt sensors.
How Do You Know if Your Honda Accord Qualifies as a Lemon?
To be eligible for a Honda Lemon Law California claim, your Accord must meet these requirements:
- The problem started (and was reported) within the warranty period
- Honda has made at least two unsuccessful repair attempts for a serious safety defect (like brakes or airbags)
- Honda has made at least four unsuccessful repair attempts for a non-safety defect
- Your Honda has been in the repair shop for 30+ days for warranty-covered repairs
If your car meets these conditions, you likely have a strong Lemon Law case.
How to Use the Lemon Law to Handle Your Defective Honda in California
If your Honda Accord meets the criteria for a lemon, you don’t have to keep dealing with endless repairs. California’s Law allows you to demand a Honda Lemon Law buyback or a replacement. Here’s how to take action:
Document Everything
Keep a record of every repair attempt, including dates, invoices, and any communication with the dealership or Honda. You should also include a detailed repair history showing that they haven’t fixed the problem. This evidence will strengthen your case if you need to file a claim.
Give the Dealer a Fair Chance to Fix It
Under the law, you must allow Honda or an authorized dealership to attempt repairs. If they fail after multiple tries, or your car sits in the shop for over 30 days, you can move forward with a Lemon Law case.
Notify Honda and Request Compensation
Once you have your documents ready, you must formally notify Honda about your issue. To do this, you can contact Honda’s customer service or send them a certified letter outlining your case and requesting a buyback. In a buyback, the automaker must reimburse you for the car’s cost, taxes, and fees minus a small amount for the time you drove it before reporting the issue.
Consult a Lemon Law Attorney and Negotiate
If Honda doesn’t want to cooperate, contact a Lemon Law attorney. Many lawyers offer free consultations and only get paid if they win your case. They can negotiate with Honda to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
However, if negotiations fail, you can still seek a resolution through litigation. In this case, your attorney will represent you in court and help you recover the full compensation you are entitled to. This also means the automaker will be responsible for your legal fees, among other expenses.
Honda Shouldn’t Get Away With Selling You a Lemon
Repeated car troubles can be stressful, but the good news is that you have rights as a consumer. If your Accord has a major defect that Honda can’t fix, you may be entitled to relief under the Lemon Law. This law ensures that car buyers like you aren’t stuck with a defective vehicle, and allows you to seek resolution through a buyback or replacement. If you’re still unclear about how to handle your Honda Lemon, you can reach out to Quill & Arrow LLP lawyers. They will break down your rights, assess your documents, and provide you with the competent representation needed to guarantee a favorable outcome.
Media Contact:
Carlo V. DeFalco
Carlo@ecustomsolutions.com
eCustom Solutions