California Boat Lemon Law: Know Your Rights!

Discovering that your new boat has serious mechanical issues or defects can leave you with mixed feelings and frustration about your purchase. The California boat lemon law offers protection for consumers who purchase or lease defective watercraft that cannot be easily repaired. Enforcing your rights under the law often requires legal representation from a California boat lemon lawyer who understands boat lemon laws.

What Are My Rights as a Boat Owner?

As a California boat owner, you have the right to expect that your watercraft will perform safely and reliably under warranty. If your boat suffers from recurring mechanical or structural defects that the manufacturer cannot repair after reasonable attempts, you may qualify for relief under state lemon laws. These rights allow you to pursue a replacement, refund, or reimbursement for repair-related expenses, ensuring you’re not left covering the costs of a defective vessel.

Understanding Boating and Lemon Law Stats in California

California’s waterways are home to more than 2.6 million recreational boats and an estimated 4 million boaters, making it one of the largest boating populations in the country. While most vessels are safe and reliable, some watercraft suffer from serious manufacturing or mechanical defects similar to those seen in automotive lemon law cases.

Between 2022 and 2023, lemon law filings in California courts climbed from about 15,000 to over 22,000.

Defective boats often experience engine failure, electrical malfunctions, hull leaks, or steering problems that make operation unsafe. California boaters docked at marinas such as Marina del Rey Harbor, Oyster Point Marina, and San Diego’s Shelter Island Marina may encounter these issues after purchase. When defects persist despite repeated repairs, affected owners may have legal grounds to seek refunds or replacements.

Compensation You May Be Owed

Once your vehicle is proven to be a lemon, you may qualify for compensation from the manufacturer or dealership. Eligibility depends on reviewing the warranty, repair records, and proof that the defect persisted after multiple fixes. Under California’s Lemon Law, you can recover costs for towing, repairs, and rental expenses. If the manufacturer is responsible, it must also cover your attorney’s fees. The goal is to secure a full refund or a replacement vehicle of equal value.

Why You Should Hire a Boat Lemon Law Attorney?

State laws are continually changing, which is why you should hire a boat lemon law attorney who keeps up with the latest developments. California’s lemon laws recently changed under SB 26, making it crucial to work with a lemon law attorney who understands the new process.

The law lets manufacturers opt in to updated AB 1755 procedures requiring written notice, mandatory mediation, and filing within one year of warranty expiration or six years from delivery. Other manufacturers remain under prior rules.

Contact a California Boat Lemon Lawyer

If you were misled into purchasing a defective boat, you shouldn’t have to deal with the frustration and expense of constant repairs. Lemon Law Pro can help you pursue justice under California law. When you work with our statewide team of attorneys, you gain dedicated advocates who always prioritize your interests.

We collaborate with trusted consultants when necessary and are fully prepared to take your case to court if that’s what is necessary to win. Contact Lemon Law Pro today to schedule your free consultation and secure the compensation you deserve for your defective watercraft.