Transmission problems can be some of the most frustrating and disruptive issues a car owner faces, and unfortunately, they’re not uncommon. If you’re experiencing repeated issues with your GM vehicle’s transmission, California’s Lemon Law may offer a path toward resolution.
In this article, we explore what GM owners should know about their rights, how the process works, and how GM transmission problems and Lemon Law cases are typically handled.
Yes, transmission issues are covered. Any major mechanical component, such as the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, or steering, is included under the manufacturer’s warranty.
If the transmission is repaired multiple times and continues to fail, it can qualify as a defect under the California Lemon Law. Since the transmission is essential to the vehicle’s operation, repeated failures can make a strong case.
It’s not accurate or legally advisable to single out specific GM models. That said, because GM is the largest vehicle manufacturer in the U.S., the number of defective GM vehicles naturally tends to be higher, simply due to volume.
Even if the failure rate is similar to that of other manufacturers, the total number of affected vehicles is greater. As a result, Lemon Law attorneys often see more GM cases than those involving other automakers.
In California, the law generally requires four or more repair attempts for the same issue, or 30 total calendar days out of service, to meet the threshold for a Lemon Law claim. Other states may have different standards. Some require only three repair attempts.
If GM denies your claim, you still have the right to pursue legal action. In California, you can take the case to court, and if you win, GM is required to pay the attorney’s fees. That means there’s no out-of-pocket legal cost for the consumer. While GM may dispute that your issue qualifies, the courts have the final say, not the manufacturer.
GM tends to be more efficient and responsive than some other automakers. Because they sell such a high volume of vehicles, they have an established internal process for dealing with Lemon Law claims. They typically respond in a timely manner and work to resolve cases within a reasonable timeframe. While not every case settles, many are resolved without needing to go to court.
One recent well-known case involved a 2023 Cadillac that had both engine and transmission problems. The vehicle had been in for repairs more than four times and was out of service for over 30 days. We were able to secure a full refund for our client, and the case was resolved within 90 days without needing to go to trial.
For more information on GM transmission problems and Lemon Law, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (678) 781-1025 today.