A defective car can be stressful, costly, and time-consuming, but thanks to the Mercedes-Benz buy back program, you don’t have to feel stuck with a vehicle that doesn’t work properly. If your car meets California’s Lemon Law requirements, you could be entitled to a refund or replacement.
However, getting your car repurchased isn’t always as simple as it sounds, since automakers don’t like admitting that they sold a lemon. This brings us to the question: How do you navigate the process and ensure that Mercedes takes your car back? We’ll answer that and more in this guide.
Here’s everything you should know about getting your vehicle repurchased under the Mercedes buy back program and how to make sure you get a fair deal.
Is Your Mercedes a Lemon? Signs You Might Qualify
Before you jump into the buyback process, you first need to determine if your Benz qualifies as a lemon. Below are some common issues that could mean you have a strong case:
Persistent Mechanical Problems
Your Mercedes shouldn’t keep breaking down, especially if it’s still under warranty. If your car suffers from recurrent problems like these, it may qualify for a Mercedes Benz buy back:
- Engine stalling, misfiring, or excessive oil consumption
- Transmission slipping, rough shifting, or failure to engage gears
- Electrical system failures, including infotainment malfunctions and faulty sensors
- Power steering, brake, or suspension defects
Too Many Days in the Repair Shop
California’s Lemon Law states that a car is a lemon if it’s been out of service for 30 days or more due to warranty-covered repairs. If your Mercedes has spent more time at the dealership than in your garage, that’s a strong argument for a repurchase.
Safety-Related Defects
A car that jeopardizes the safety of you, your passengers, or other drivers on the road is a serious issue. If your Mercedes-Benz has brake failures, airbag malfunctions, sudden power loss, or steering issues, you may have a claim. If the dealership has attempted repairs, but failed to fix the problem, it’s time to look into the lemon law.
The Key to a Successful Mercedes Lemon Law Buyback
To win your lemon law case, you’ll need solid evidence to prove that your vehicle meets the necessary criteria. This proof is essential, because Mercedes will not just hand you a check without it. Here’s what you need to do:
Save Every Repair Receipt and Work Order
Each time your Mercedes lemon goes in for repairs, request a detailed repair order from the dealer. This document should include:
- The date of service
- The reported issue
- The repairs performed
- The nature of the defect after repairs (whether they fixed it or not)
If you don’t have the proper documentation, the automaker may argue that you never gave them a chance to fix the issue.
Take Photos and Videos of Defects
If your car has warning lights flickering on and off, makes strange noises, or has visible leaks, document everything with photos and video. This provides undeniable proof of the defects.
Keep a Log of Every Problem
Write down each time an issue occurs. Note the date, time, and driving conditions when the problem happens. If your Mercedes stalls in the middle of traffic or fails to start after sitting overnight, these details help build your case.
Check for Recalls and Complaints
Sometimes, the issue with your Mercedes isn’t just happening to you. Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for recalls or complaints about your specific model. If other owners are experiencing the same problem, it strengthens your claim.
Starting the Buyback Process
Gathering your evidence is just the first step. The main buyback process goes as follows:
Send a Formal Claim to Mercedes
Your first step after determining you have a lemon is to contact Mercedes-Benz’s customer service and officially request a buyback. You’ll need to provide them with:
- Your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- A list of documented repair attempts
- Proof that the defect is still ongoing
The automaker may try to negotiate a quick cash settlement instead of a buyback, so be ready to pushback.
Allow the Manufacturer One Last Repair Attempt
Under California law, manufacturers must get a final repair attempt before they have to repurchase your vehicle. This means Mercedes might request that you bring your car in one last time. If they fix the issue, the automaker may deny your Mercedes Benz Lemon buyback request.
However, if the problem remains or returns shortly after, your case can move forward.
Negotiate a Buyback Offer
If Mercedes-Benz accepts your claim, they will offer to repurchase your vehicle. The amount they offer will include:
- The full purchase price of the car (including taxes, fees, and registration)
- Reimbursement for towing and rental car costs (if applicable)
- A deduction for miles driven before the first repair attempt
However, Mercedes-Benz may try to lowball you, offering a lower settlement than you deserve. Don’t accept the first offer without reviewing it carefully.
How to Negotiate a Better Buyback Deal
Mercedes-Benz’s legal team will try to minimize the amount they pay you. Here’s how to negotiate for a better deal from the Mercedes Benz buyback program:
Know Your Rights
California’s Lemon Law is one of the strongest in the country. If your car meets the legal definition of a lemon, Mercedes won’t be able to deny your claim outright.
Push Back Against Mileage Deductions
Manufacturers have a chance to deduct an amount for the miles you drove before the first repair attempt. However, some manufacturers try to inflate this deduction. It’s up to you to ensure they calculate it fairly, based on California’s Mercedes Benz Lemon Law formula.
Use Your Documentation as Leverage
If the automaker tries to argue that your car doesn’t qualify as a Mercedes Benz lemon, present your evidence. Show them repair records, dealership statements, and proof of your repeated breakdowns.
Consider Hiring a Lemon Law Attorney
If Mercedes-Benz refuses to offer a fair buyback amount, hire a qualified Lemon Law attorney. The good thing about this is that California law requires Mercedes to pay your lawyer’s fees if you win.
What Happens After the Buyback?
Once you reach an agreement, Mercedes-Benz will buy back your vehicle and refund you the agreed-upon amount. Your attorney will handle the paperwork to return the car and you’ll drop it off at a nearby dealership.
At this point, you can choose to purchase another Mercedes-Benz or go with a different brand.
Finding Resolution When All Repairs Fair
If your Mercedes-Benz has been in and out of the repair shop without a permanent fix, you shouldn’t have to keep dealing with it. The Mercedes Lemon Law buyback program offers a way for defective vehicle owners to get compensated. You could qualify for a refund or a replacement instead of spending more time and money on repairs that don’t work.
The key is recognizing when your car meets the requirements and gathering the necessary documentation. Even after gathering your evidence, you’ll still want to seek legal assistance from experienced professionals. Quill & Arrow LLP is a highly respected lemon law firm with a strong record of helping clients successfully resolve their claims. Rather than enduring endless repairs, let the professionals help you secure the resolution you need.
Media Contact:
Carlo V. DeFalco
Carlo@ecustomsolutions.com
eCustom Solutions