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File Your Claim Under The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act Today

The federal lemon law act, formally referred to as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, ensures that warranties are enforced on products that fail to perform as advertised after they have already been purchased. Its goal is to protect consumers from falling prey to deceptive manufacturing tactics by requiring warranties that are clear and straightforward, as well as enforcing them if a breach of contract was to occur. Each state has its own laws regarding lemons that work in tandem with the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act to protect the rights of people.

Understanding The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act governs warranties on consumer products and provides legal recourse for anyone who purchases a faulty product that repeatedly fails to live up to its expected standards. It prevents manufacturers from including unfair or misleading disclaimers and warranties with their products as well as provides consumers with access to reasonable remedies when a breach of warranty occurs. While mediation and arbitration are encouraged first steps for settling disputes, this act gives the federal government the power to step in and take action against a manufacturer who fails to meet the law's requirements.

Key Requirements of The Magnuson Moss Act

The 1975 federal law known as the Magnuson-Moss Act requires that:

• A product has a valid warranty
• The product was presented for repairs within the warranty period
• The manufacturer failed to adhere to the warranty's provisions within a reasonable amount of time or repair attempts

How The Uniform Commercial Code Protects Consumers

The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) is a comprehensive set of laws that applies to all 50 states and works in tandem with the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act to protect consumers against faulty vehicles. Under the UCC, customers have a right to seek a refund or replacement of a lemon as well as compensation for attorneys fees. With that being said, the UCC does not define what a "lemon" is, requiring the courts to decide whether to award a replacement or refund. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a federal law that ensures consumers’ warranties are enforced on defective products. It applies to vehicles, appliances, electronics, and other consumer goods. If a product fails to meet the standards set by its warranty, the consumer may be entitled to a refund or replacement.

What qualifies as a “lemon” under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?

A "lemon" is a product that has significant defects that affect its safety, performance, or use. The product must have failed to meet the terms of its warranty and cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts by the manufacturer.

How does the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act work with California’s Lemon Law?

While California’s Lemon Law provides additional protections for defective vehicles, it works in tandem with the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. Both laws offer remedies, such as refunds or replacements, when a product does not perform as advertised and the manufacturer fails to honor the warranty.

What do I need to prove in order to file a claim under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?

To file a claim, you need to provide evidence that the product was under warranty, that you sought repairs within the warranty period, and that the manufacturer failed to make the necessary repairs or provide a remedy. Keeping detailed records of repair attempts and communication with the manufacturer is crucial.

Can I get my attorney’s fees covered under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?

Yes. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act allows consumers to recover attorney’s fees, costs, and other expenses incurred in pursuing a claim against the manufacturer, provided you are successful in your case.

How do I start a lemon law claim under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act?

Contact a lemon law attorney to help assess your situation, review your repair records, and guide you through the process of filing a claim under both the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and California’s Lemon Law. An attorney can also negotiate on your behalf and represent you in court if necessary.

Contact our federal lemon lawyers at (818) 960-1550 to get started on your case today!