California's lemon law may apply to RVs, too

Not everyone understands the joys of RV living. Whether one purchases an RV or trailer for family vacations or plans and saves for a retirement of traveling across the country, the choice of vehicle is critical. A consumer may spend much time researching models and visiting dealers before making the purchase. However, if the new purchase is a disappointment because the owner must make numerous trips to the mechanic for repairs, the RV may fall under California's lemon law.

A lemon is not necessarily a broken down used vehicle that is beyond repair. Because of the methods manufacturers use to build RVs, it is not uncommon for owners of new vehicles to experience issues with the drivetrain, chassis or chassis cab. Depending on the circumstances, issues with any of these may be covered by lemon laws.

In general, if a new RV requires numerous repairs for the same defect, has a series of issues while still under warranty, or spends 30 days or more out of commission because of repairs, it may be a lemon. Not every state includes RVs in their lemon laws. Because many consumers cross state lines in search of the perfect RV, it is important for them to understand that the state where they purchase their vehicles is the state whose laws apply.

California's lemon law requires the manufacturer to replace or repurchase a vehicle that gives a consumer the above issues. Understandably, a manufacturer may be less than willing to comply with these regulations. In such a case, an RV owner can turn to a skilled and experienced consumer protection attorney for assistance in obtaining satisfaction from the manufacturer of a defective RV.