It’s time again for us to provide a roundup of recent refunds, repurchases and replacements.  Under the State Lemon Laws and the Federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, all of our clients receive completely cost-free legal help, with the manufacturers covering the legal fees ON TOP OF what our client receives.  We are very proud of our efforts and encourage you to reach out to us at 1-800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652) or via e-mail  if you think your vehicle may qualify for remedy.   Here we go….

2008 Dodge Dakota, Replacement Vehicle  — Newark, DE

2008 Audi A5, $6,500 cash plus client keeps their car — Jenkintown, PA

2009 Chevrolet Impreza, Replacement Vehicle — Telford, PA

2007 Hyundai Santa Fe, $5,000 plus client keeps their car — Cranbury, NJ

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit, Complete Refund — Greenwich, CT

2008 Buell Blast Motorcycle, Replacement Bike — Aberdeen, MD

2009 Infiniti G37, Complete Refund — Randolph, NJ

2007 Cadillac Escalade (70,000 miles), $5,500 cash plus client keeps their car — Bloomfield, NJ

2008 BMW 5-series, Replacement Vehicle — Perrysburg, OH

2008 Chrysler Sebring, Complete Refund –Somerville, MA

2008 Ford Ranger, $8,000 cash plus client keeps their car — Spring Grove, PA

2008 BMW 335i, $18,500 cash plus client keeps car and receives 7 yr/100k extended warranty- West New York, NJ

2008 Ford F250, $5,000 cash plus client keeps their truck — Rome, NY

2009 Honda Accord, Replacement Vehicle — York, PA

2009 Chevrolet Silverado, Replacement Vehicle — New Galihee, PA

2007 Audi Q7, Replacement Vehicle — Middletown, DE

2007 Pontiac G6, Complete Refund — Oceanside, NY

2008 Jeep Patriot, Complete Refund — Uniontown, PA

2005 Land Rover Range Rover, $6,500 cash plus client keeps car — Richboro, PA

2009 Dodge Challenger, Complete Refund — Brick, NJ

2008 Jeep Liberty, Complete Refund — Clarksville, PA

2008 Smart Car Cabriolet, Replacement Vehicle — Findlay, OH

2007 Hyundai Entourage, Complete Refund — Holbrook, NY

2006 Suzuki Forenza, Complete Refund — Elkins Park, PA

2009 Volvo S80, $7,500 cash plus client keeps their car — Frederick, MD

2008 GMC Arcadia, $5,000 cash plus client keeps their car — Boston, MA

2007 Toyota Camry, Complete Refund — Pikesville, MD

2008 BMW 335i, Replacement Vehicle — Old Bridge, NJ

2007 Mercedes Benz ML320, Complete Refund — River Vale, NJ

2009 Mazda 6, $6,500 cash plus client keeps their car — Elizabeth, NJ

2009 Audi A5, Replacement Vehicle — Hamilton, NJ

2008 Jeep Wrangler, Complete Refund  — Pisacataway, NJ

2009 Audi S5,  Replacement Vehicle –Boston, MA

2008 Mazda CX7, $5,000 cash plus client keeps their car — Monroeville, PA

2008 Dodge Ram, Complete Refund –Rural Valley, PA

2007 Moto Guzzi Motorcycle, Complete Refund — Flemington, NJ

2007 Chevrolet Silverado, $6,850 cash plus client keeps their car –Brooklyn, NY

2007 Jeep Compass, Complete Refund — Lancaster, PA

2008 Chevrolet Avalanche, $8,000 cash plus client keeps their SUV — Oliver, PA

2007 Hyundai Veracruz, Replacement Vehicle — Glassboro, NJ

Driving a lemon?  Join the more than 60,000 distressed drivers who have made the call to 1-800 LEMON LAW!

As you can expect, of the hundreds of calls and e-mails we receive each week at 1-800 LEMON LAW headquarters, we frequently see the same thing happening to consumers over and over throughout a variety of States.  Here are some defects we are seeing regularly among our clients.  (Keep in mind we are not saying everyone who purchases these cars will have these problems; we are just seeing a trend among our cases.)

Jeep Patriots continue to have massive water leak problems, as do GMC Acadias, Buick Enclaves and Saturn Outlooks.

Ford F-Trucks have diesel problems, resulting in check engine lights, black smoke and stalling among other issues.

BMW models ending in 35 seems to be suffering from fuel pump failure.

Have a Volkswagen EOS?  Having a problem getting the top up and down?  You are not alone. More and more VW claims are coming in with this issue.

Squeak, squeak, squeak go the brakes on Honda Accords.

We are seeing a lot of alignment issues with Toyota Camry and Lexus models.

In most Chryslers, especially the Town and Country and 300 models, we are seeing transmission shuttering.

Finally, the Dodge Grand Caravan sliding doors are causing massive headaches for many of our clients.

Kimmel & Silverman prides itself on having three full-time ASE certified mechanics who work on our clients’ behalf to review and research automotive defects.  If you are having a continuing problem with your car, chances are we have heard about it.  Feel free to contact us through our website or by calling 1-800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652).

It’s time for another roundup of recent repurchases and refunds.  These blog entries are always our favorite to write.  Kimmel & Silverman is dedicated to being the oldest, largest and most helpful lemon law firm in the Northeast, successfully handling over 50,000 lemon law and breach of warranty claims since our inception at absolutely no cost to consumers.  The following are just a few of the cases resolved in the last 30 days:

• 2008 Nissan Altima -Complete Repurchase under New Jersey Lemon Law (resolved in 24 days)
• 2008 Mazda 3 -$6,500 cash under Pennsylvania Lemon Law (plus client kept their car)
• 2008 Suzuki Forenza -Complete Repurchase under Ohio Lemon Law (resolved in 23 days)
• 2005 Suzuki Forenza -$5,000 cash under Pennsylvania Lemon Law (plus client kept their car)
• 2008 GMC Yukon -Complete Repurchase under Ohio Lemon Law (resolved in 45 days)
• 2006 Kia Sedona -$4,500 cash under Magnuson Moss Warranty Act (plus client kept their car)
• Used 2008 Kia Sorento -$3,875 cash under Magnuson Moss Act (plus client kept their car)
• 2008 Suzuki Sx4 -Complete Repurchase under Pennsylvania Lemon Law (resolved in 41 days)
• 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara -Complete Repurchase under Pennsylvania Lemon Law
• 2008 Subaru Impreza-$4,600 cash under Connecticut Lemon Law (plus client kept their car)
• 2009 Honda Accord-Complete Repurchase under New Jersey Lemon Law (resolved in 70 days)
• Used 2006 Mazda Tribute-$6,000 under Magnuson Moss Act (plus client kept their car)
• 2008 Mazda CX7 with 30,000 miles-$4,000 under New Jersey Lemon law (plus client kept car)
• 2008 GMC Siera -$5,000 cash under Pennsylvania Lemon Law (plus client kept their car)
• 2008 Lexus GS350 -Complete Repurchase under New Jersey Lemon Law
• Leased 2007 Jeep Wrangler with 27,000 miles – $5,000 under Magnsuon Moss Warranty Act
• 2008 Saturn Outlook – $7,000 cash under Pennsylvania Lemon Law (plus client kept their car)
• 2006 GMC Sierra – $5,000 cash under New York Lemon Law (plus client kept their car)
• 2009 Jeep Wrangler – Complete Repurchase under Pennsylvania Lemon Law (resolved in 60 days)
• 2007 BMW 3 series,first repair at 29,000 miles -$4,000 under Magnuson Moss Act (client kept car)
• Used 2003 Cadillac CTS with 64,000 miles -$3,000 under Magnuson Moss Act (plus client kept car)
• 2008 Lexus RX350 – Complete Repurchase under Massachusetts Lemon Law
• 2009 Mazda 6 – Complete Repurchase under New Jersey Lemon Law (resolved in 20 days)
• 2008 Audi A4 – Complete Repurchase under New Jersey Lemon Law (resolved in 3 months)
• Used 2007 Pontiac Solstice -$4,000 cash under Magnuson Moss Act (plus client kept car)
• 2008 GMC Arcadia – Complete Repurchase under Pennsylvania Lemon Law (resolved in 30 days)
• 2006 Chevrolet HHR with 26,000 miles- $4,500 under Maryland Lemon Law (plus client kept car)
• 2006 Volvo S60 – $6,500 under New Jersey Lemon Law (plus client kept car)
• Used 2006 Pontiac Torrent -$3,000 under Magnuson Moss Act (client kept car; resolved in 19 days)
• 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe, first defect at 20,000 miles -$5,500 under Magnuson Moss Act (client kept car)

If you feel you may have a potential lemon law or breach of warranty claim, contact us at 1-800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652) or drop us a line.  We will be glad to review your situation and see if we can help.  With eleven Lemon Law attorneys, six full-service offices, three ASE-certified mechanics on staff, and a complete support team of experienced paralegals and administrators, no one can get you on the road to recovery quicker than Kimmel & Silverman. 

Kimmel & Silverman Lemon Law Attorneys Robert M. Silverman and Amy L. Bennecoff spent a large portion of last week in New York working with Chrysler counsel Jones Day and Fiat counsel Sullivan Cromwell to include specific language regarding consumer protection in the Master Sales Agreement between the two companies, scheduled to take effect Monday, June 15.

The new amendment, in paragraph 19 of the order, specifically outlines that the New Chrysler will be responsible for all existing and future lemon law and breach of warranty claims filed by consumers who suffer repetitive non-conformities with their Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep vehicles.   This means that our numerous clients whose claims were stayed or whose settlements were stalled as a result of the filing will be taken care of, and we will be able to continue to provide cost-free lemon and breach of warranty representation to all Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep consumers who need our services in the future.  Both counsel attributed Silverman and Bennecoff as the only lemon law attorneys in the Nation who were directly responsible for helping to make this amendment a reality.

If you are suffering problems with your Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep vehicle, or if parts have been on back order resulting in your vehicle being in the shop for a long period of time, contact us to discuss your rights to remedy or recourse.

You can read all about the big news by clicking here.

No doubt you have read all about the Chrysler bankruptcy in the headlines.  It has been covered by print outlets and blogs throughout the Country, or perhaps you heard Kimmel and Silverman attorney Bob Silverman discuss the situation on the local news.  All current Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep owners and anyone who intends to purchase one of these cars in the near future has hit a pothole when it comes to their consumer rights under State Lemon Law and Federal Warranty Law. 

As a result of the manufacturer filing in bankruptcy court, all lemon law and breach of warranty claims currently in litigation have been “stayed” or stalled until we receive instruction from the court on how to proceed.  But that’s not all; we have over 20 consumers waiting for complete repurchases or refunds, agreed upon before the manufacturer filed for bankruptcy, who are now stuck.  These folks each have signed releases from the manufacturer.  One client is a handicapped woman who desperately needs her Dodge conversion van to get around, and it has been in the shop numerous times for transmission problems. Another client, who has faced tough financial problems himself, already turned his car in and was waiting for his repurchase, and now he has no car, and no money. Plus, being that his creditor was never paid, he is facing the prospect of his lemon car being repossessed and ruining his credit.  Dozens of other folks have received checks which have bounced and these checks were dated prior to the 4/30 filing.

Currently, Kimmel and Silverman is working extensively on efforts to make sure Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep consumers are protected.  The manufacturers stance (and the PR statement we have heard from Washington DC and DCC headquarters) is your cars will be fully covered under warranty.  But, that’s not really the case.  If you can find a dealer that hasn’t closed, and they do have the part you need in stock (doubtful as a result of the closed factories and stop in production), what happens if they still can’t fix the problem?  If the check engine light keeps coming on?  If the water leak keeps reoccurring, resulting in mold?  If the windows still don’t go down?  If the car still won’t start?  And you are back one, two, three, four times?  Well, under normal circumstances, you would be able to use your rights under State and Federal Law to seek recourse, either a complete buyback, a new vehicle, or monetary damages to reflect the diminished value of the car as a result of the problems that occurred.  But that’s not the case right now.  Right now, Chrysler feels you are entitled to nothing other than continuous repair.  And, the new company that is looking to take over Chrysler is NOT interested in taking over these responsibilities; they do not want to compensate all the distressed drivers who have suffered defects or are currently suffering defects with their products.  The language in their motion is very unclear and contradicts itself.

We are currently working on a motion in an attempt for Chrysler to establish a litigation trust for those people who were entitled to recourse under warranty claims.  We will keep you abreast of our progress. In the meantime, we encourage you to reach out to your State’s consumer protection division and attorney general office and make sure they are aware of this situation.  Ask them what they are doing to advocate for consumers in perhaps one of the most troubling situations we have ever seen.

Confused? No doubt.  if you feel you have a potential DCC lemon law or breach of warranty claim and you would like to discuss this situation and your rights further, please e-mail us or call 1-800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652). (Our firm handles claims in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, Connecticut,  Massachusetts, New York and New Hampshire.  For other states, please visit www.lemonlawamerica.com.) We will be more than happy to go over your matter with you. 

Now that so many Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep dealers are closing, the liquidation ads have been popping up all over the television and radio.  Have you purchased a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge since they filed for bankruptcy April 30th?  We would love to hear about your experiences so far.  Drop Client Services Director Michael Sacks an e-mail at msacks@lemonlaw.com. 

Late last month, we worked on an investigative report with WTAE TV reporter Paul Van Osdel, uncovering which cars provides the most headaches for drivers throughout the Keystone State. Paul obtained a list from PENNDot (Pennsylvania Department of Transportation) and according to their records, from 2003-2008, Chevrolet led the list of lemons in Pennsylvania. Their list is as follows:

Chevrolet (their story featured 1-800 LEMON LAW client Sarah Griffith of Monroeville, who received a complete buyback after suffering problems with her Trailblazer)

Ford
Dodge
Nissan
Suzuki
Jeep
Hyundai
Cadillac
Volkswagen
GMC

We find this list to be rather incomplete, as it only covers vehicles that were purchased back from the manufacturer and officially titled as lemons. The list does not include vehicles where consumers received thousands of dollar in monetary damages and were able to keep their cars.

Being that we are the oldest and largest lemon law firm in Western Pennsylvania, Paul asked us to compile a list of the cars we see the most in our Pittsburgh caseload. Although he didn’t have time for the information in the story, we thought it would be interesting to give our top 10:
Chevrolet Cobalt
Chevrolet Impala
Chevrolet Silverado
Chevrolet Malibu
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Liberty
Chevrolet Equinox
Kia Sedona
Pontiac G6
Saturn VUE
Jeep Commander
Jeep Wrangler

and of course, to view the cars that receive the most complaints nationally per sales, check out the 2009 Car Complaint Index.

Since 1991, Kimmel & Silverman has prided itself in protecting consumer rights, starting with providing free lemon law help to consumers in the Philadelphia, PA region and building throughout Pittsburgh, and then New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, New Hampshire and Connecticut.  Since our inception, we have handled over 50,000 lemon law and breach of warranty claims, more than any other lemon law firm in the Nation.  It is an accomplishment we are extremely proud of.

So, without any further adieu, here are some of the highlights from our first quarter. These are consumers who realized they had rights and were entitled to monies for their problems they have encountered.  They put their faith in our firm and we are very grateful.

2007 GMC Arcadia — opened 1/9/09, resolved 2/11/09–FULL REPURCHASE plus attorney fees.

2007 Suzuki XL7 — opened 1/28/09, resolved 2/16/09 — FULL REPURCHASE, plus attorney fees.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu — opened 2/9/09, resolved 3/24/09 — FULL REPURCHASE plus attorney fees.

2008 GMC Arcadia — opened 1/21/09, resolved 2/13/09 — FULL REPURCHASE, plus attorney fees.

2007 Mazda CX7 — breach of warranty, first problem reported at 29,000 miles–$5,500 plus attorney fees, and  the client keeps their car.  opened 1/2/09, resolved 2/12/09.

2008 Mazda CX9 –breach of warranty, first problem reported over 30,000 miles–$6,000 plus attorney fees, and the client keeps the car.  opened 1/5/09, resolved 2/12/09.

Used 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix with 50,000 miles –breach of warranty –$4,000 plus attorney fees, and the client gets to keep the car.  opened 1/2/09, resolved 2/5/09.

2004 Volvo S40 — breach of warranty, first problem occurred at 40,000 miles — $5000 plus attorney fees, and the client gets to keep the car.  Opened 1/6/09, resolved 2/9/09.

2008 Dodge Caliber — opened 2/2/09, resolved 3/25/09 — FULL REPURCHASE plus attorney fees.

2009 Lexus RX350 — opened 2/16/09, resolved 3/9/09 — FULL REPURCHASE plus attorney fees.

2006 Hyundai Sonata –opened 12/19/08, resolved 2/9/09 — 2009 REPLACEMENT VEHICLE plus attorney fees.

Used 2006 Mazda Speed 6 –purchased with over 60,000 miles — $6,000 plus attorney fees plus client gets to keep the car. opened 1/5/09, resolved 2/5/09.

Leased 2008 Ford F250 — $4,000 plus attorney fees — opened 1/6/09, resolved 1/26/09.

2007 GMC Sierra — opened 2/5/09, resolved 3/6/09 — FULL REPURCHASE plus attorney fees.

Leased 2007 Saturn Outlook — $6,000 plus attorney fees — opened 12/26/08, resolved 2/3/09

Used 2004 BMW M3–purchased with 67,000 miles — $4,500 plus attorney fees and the client keeps the car. opened 12/19/08, resolved 2/11/09.

Used 2006 Infiniti FX35 — opened 1/29/09, resolved 2/26/09 — FULL REPURCHASE plus attorney fees

2008 Saturn Vue –opened 12/16/08, resolved 2/9/09– FULL REPURCHASE INCLUDING EXTENDED WARRANTY plus attorney fees.

Leased 2008 Jeep Liberty — $6,750 plus attorney fees — opened 12/11/08, resolved 2/17/09.

2007 Dodge Caravan — opened 12/9/08, resolved 2/4/09 –FULL REPURCHASE plus attorney fees.

2006 Toyota Rav 4– opened 1/2/09, resolved 3/3/09– FULL REPURCHASE plus attorney fees.

Think you have a lemon?  Feel free to e-mail us and see if you qualify for free lemon law or breach of warranty help.

Happy new year!  The winter months are upon us and so is the wacky wetter weather (try saying that ten times fast.) The phones at 1-800 LEMON LAW are ringing with many distressed drivers who are dealing with water leaks. On this blog, we have discussed why it is so important to continue to bring these leaks to your service manager’s attention, especially since leaks can lead to mold and mildew.

Many vehicles are suffering with clogged sunroof drains and other component failures which are causing water to leak onto drivers side and passenger side floors, and in some cases, even contaminate electrical components.  We are also seeing a great deal of water leaks in trunks and spare wheel wells.

If you have a GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook, Jeep Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee, please be advised we are currently handing/have handled hundreds of water leak claims involving these types of vehicles.But, you are not alone.  This past month alone, we have opened water leaks claims against six other manufacturers as well. A leak can occur in any vehicle. Remember that in this tough economy, we are continuously seeing manufacturers cutting warranty repair costs.  Be as specific as possible with regard to when you noticed the leak and what areas of your vehicle appear to be affected.  Furthermore, it is essential that if you smell or see mold or mildew, you immediately bring it to you dealer’s attention and if necessary, you request that carpeting and seats be replaced. Your family’s health and the value of your vehicle both could be at risk.

In most circumstances, if you report a water leak or a leak-related problem (mold) to a dealer three times under original or extended manufacturers warranty, you very well may be entitled to a full or partial refund, or a new vehicle under State and/or Federal Law (even if the leak is fixed).  If this applies to you, and you are interested in 100% cost-free legal assistance, please contact us to discuss your rights.

When Bob Silverman & Craig Kimmel formed Kimmel & Silverman eighteen years ago, they had one goal in mind–to equal the playing field between the consumer and the billion-dollar automotive manufacturer, using State & Federal Laws that many consumers were not aware of.  Best of all, the legal help under these laws is completely FREE to the consumer. 

For the life of us, we cannot understand why consumers still insist on trying to do this by themselves, when you can have access to an experienced attorney who has worked on thousands of lemon law and breach of warranty claims (not only that, but we have three ASE-certified mechanics on staff to inspect our clients’ vehicles and research their issues.)  The other day, a gentleman called with a real problem–he was two years into a four-year lease and he was experiencing many problems with his power-train.  Being that he thought he had a “slam dunk” case, he decided to represent himself through the NJ Lemon Law unit.  He couldn’t get a mechanic to testify on his behalf. The manufacturer hired attorneys to oppose his claim.  He ended being offered a very minimal settlement which only covered a few lease payments.  He now has decided to buy himself out of his lease, which means he is going to take a huge financial hit.  This is all because he thought he could handle this on his own.  We have seen many other claims where the consumer was promised a new car, only it turned out to be a trade and the consumer found themselves stuck in a terrible situation.  If you are not a doctor, can you diagnose someone with a chest pain? If you are not a contractor, can you build a house and ensure it’s going to last the test of time?  The legal help is free, the participation is minimal.  You can keep driving your car throughout the entire process….if you don’t take advantage of what the Law provides, then you are partly to blame for whatever happens.

We know that It sounds too good to be true, but we can assure you it is for real. You can read the many consumer stories we have in our on-line newsroom, or just take a look at some of our recent victories from the last quarter. The following are some of the repurchases we have successfully obtained in the last four months.  These clients received all taxes, tags, finance charges, monthly payments and value on their trade-ins, minus a very small mileage offset normally based on the mileage when they first brought the car to the authorized manufacturers dealership for service.  And how much did they pay for legal fees?  if you answered “nothing,” you get a gold star!

• 2007 Nissan Quest — repurchase under MA Lemon Law
• 2008 Nissan XTerra — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2007 Nissan Quest — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2005 Nissan Murano — repurchase under PA Lemon Law (client had 26,800 miles when he called us.)
• 2005 Nissan Altima — repurchase under PA Lemon Law (client had 30,126 miles when he called us.)
• 2007 Chevrolet Silverado — Two repurchases in last four months under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Chevrolet Colorado — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Chevrolet HHR — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law (settled in 28 days)
• 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer — repurchase under PA Lemon Law (settled in 19 days)
• 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2007 GMC Sierra — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2007 GMC Yukon — repurchase under PA Lemon Law (settled in 20 days)
• 2008 GMC Arcadia — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law (settled in 27 days)
• 2007 GMC Arcadia — repurchase under DE Lemon Law
• 2008 GMC Envoy — repurchase under OH Lemon Law (settled in 19 days)
• 2008 GMC Yukon — repurchase under OH Lemon Law
• 2006 Cadillac CTS — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2007 Cadillac SRX — repurchase under MA Lemon Law
• 2006 Cadillac XLRV — repurchase under MA Lemon Law
• 2008 Cadillac CTS — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2008 Saturn Vue — repurchase under PA Lemon Law (settled in 12 days)
• 2008 Saturn ION — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2007 Saturn ION — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Hummer H3 — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2006 Suzuki Forenza — repurchase under VT Lemon Law
• 2008 Audi A4 — repurchase under NH Lemon Law
• 2006 Hyundai Elantra — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2007 Dodge Ram — Two repurchases under PA Lemon Law
• 2007 Dodge Ram — Two repurchases under VT Lemon Law
• 2008 Dodge Ram – repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2007 Dodge Caliber — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Dodge Caliber –repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible — repurchase under OH Lemon Law
• 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2007 Chrysler Town & Country — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Jeep Patriot — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2006 Jeep Wrangler — repurchase under OH Lemon Law
• 2007 Jeep Commander — repurchase under OH Lemon Law
• 2007 Jeep Wrangler — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2006 Toyota Scion — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2007 Toyota Solara –repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Toyota Corolla — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Lexus LS460 — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2007 Lexus ES350 –repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2006 Lexus LX470 — repurchase under NJ Lemon Law
• 2007 Lexus GS300 — repurchase under PA Lemon Law
• 2008 Lexus GS400 — repurchase under OH Lemon Law
• 2005 Ford Mustang — repurchase under PA Lemon Law

Now, remember this is a legal process, so we can’t guarantee that you will receive a repurchase if you open a claim with us, but it could be possible.

Under the Laws we work with, a repurchase is the maximum remedy a consumer can receive.  Repurchases are reserved where the consumer has suffered a significant non-conformity which has affected the use, value and safety of the vehicle, and the problem has reoccurred repeatedly.  Another possible remedy under the Lemon Law is a new car. This known as an MSRP to MSRP swap, which is essentially a trade without the depreciation you would normally suffer.  As you know, the minute you drive a car off the lot, the value of the car depreciates significantly.  If you receive a swap, we take the MSRP from the sticker price of your car and apply it to the MSRP of a brand new car.  So, essentially you are getting a brand new car with the same features, and you have the same amount of equity in the new car as you did in the old car. The depreciation you would normally deal with does not apply.

There is also a third remedy under the State Lemon Laws and most commonly under the Federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act–significant monetary compensation to reflect the diminished value of the vehicle for the problems you have incurred. This could apply if it is fixed after three repairs; if the problem is not threatening the overall use, value, or safety f the vehicle (i.e. radio);  it falls outside the lemon law mileage provisions; or if you purchased the car used but it still has a manufacturers warranty.  If you receive money, it is non-taxable and YOU GET TO KEEP YOUR CAR and your car is not branded in any way, shape or form.  Plus, your warranty remains completely in effect, so the manufacturer  is  still obligated to fix the car if problems persist, and you do not need to disclose that you received this money at time of trade or sale.  You may do whatever you want with the money.  You may have previously read in our blog about the Volvo SUV owner who received $7,000 after he heard Communications Director Michael Sacks on the radio. Here are some other folks who received monetary awards in the last four months(All of these folks kept their vehicles and had their attorney fees paid sepearately by the manufacturer):

• 2008 Volvo C70 — problems with convertible top, fixed after 4th attempt. Client received $10,000.
• 2008 Ford Ranger — client received $5,000.
• 2007 Ford Expedition — client received $6,000.
• 2005 Ford F350 — client received $7,000.
• 2007 Ford Expedition – client received $4,000.
• 2008 Toyota Rav 4 — client received $5,500.
• 2009 Dodge Journey purchased in another state but registered in PA — client received $6,750.
• 2006 Dodge Caravan –client received $5,250.
• 2007 Jeep Liberty — client received $5,000.
• 2006 Chrysler Town & Country with 32,000 miles — client received $3,250.
• 2006 Subaru Forrester with 61,000 miles — client received $4,000 (settled in 60 days).
• 2008 Land Rover LR 3 with 25,000 miles — client received $4,250.
• 2008 Saab 9-7 with 37,000 miles — client received $5,500.
• 2005 Saab 9-3 with 40,000 miles and the lease almost completed — client received $3,000.
• 2005 Mazda 3 with 50,536 miles — client received $4,000.
• 2006 Mazda 6 purchased used — client received $4,000.
• 2006 Mazda MPV — client received $4,500 (settled in 30 days).
• 2007 Mazda CX9 –client received $5,000 (settled in 45 days).
• 2006 Honda Civic with 32,700 miles, problems fell outside of lemon law — client received $3,500.
• 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe with problem starting at 29,000 miles and lease up – client received $4,000.
• 2005 Chevrolet Impala with problem starting at 25,000 miles — client received $3,000.
• 2004 BMW 7-series certified pre-owned with 56,600 miles — client received $2,500.
• 2004 BMW 5-series with problem starting at 52,000 miles & extended wty – client received $3,000.

And this is just a sampling of the work we have done in the last four months.  Think you have a lemon?    E-mail us you question or call us at 1-800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652) and we will be happy to go over your situation and whether we can help.

Throughout the year, we receive countless calls from folks looking for car buying advice.  Many figure that by calling 1-800 LEMON LAW prior to buying a car, they may be able to prevent problems “down the road” so to speak. For that reason, since 2001, we have teamed up consumer advocate Jack Gillis and the wonderful team at the Center for Auto Safety to provide the Car Complaint Index to consumers.  We feel that an educated consumer is an effective consumer. 

Yesterday, JD Power & Associates came out with their dependability rankings and it appears that Land Rover is lowest on the Power totem pole.  While the Car Complaint Index looks at specific models, JD Power looks at brand quality.  They rank their cars based on an average of car problems; how many problems are reported per 100 cars, as experienced by original owners of these cars after three years.  The industry average is 206 problems per 100 cars, roughly averaging 2 problems per car.

Here are the brands that fall below the industry average:  Audi 207, Mercedes Benz 215, Nissan 224, Pontiac 225, GMC 226, Mazda 228, Subaru 228, Chrysler 229, Dodge 230, Mini 233, Chevrolet 239, Hummer 241, Scion 243, Volvo 244, Saturn 250, Jeep 253, Volkswagen 253, Saab 254, Isuzu 274, Kia 278, Suzuki 302, and lastly Land Rover with 344 problems reported per 100 cars.  This is not good news for the SUV manufacturer, which was recently sold by Ford to an Indian company.

So, who’s on top?  Number one with a bullet for the 14th consecutive year is Lexus, followed by Mercury and Cadillac.

This year, we have handled numerous lemon law claims with regards to the Jeep Commander (#6 on this year’s car complaint index) and the Pontiac G6.  Now comes word from consumer affairs.com that NHTSA, The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration has opened a preliminary investigation which could lead to a recall of 136,444 Commanders and 176,968 Pontiacs.

Jeep Commander drviers have been complaining of stalling incidents with simultaneous loss of lighting systems including headlamps. NHTSA has also received 19 complaints of power steering from Pontiac G6 drivers with two incidents resulting in accidents.

If you find that you are experiencing problems with your Jeep Commander or Pontiac G6, it’s very important to keep all of your reapir invoices and keep a log when you are experiencing problems.  If you bring your car in the shop three or more times, you could be entitled to significant remedy under State or Federal Law.  Feel free to contact us or call us at 1-800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652).

Every month, we will be highlighting some common trends we are seeing in our lemon law claims.  We have successfully handled numerous cases with the following problems.  If you find that you are experiencing these problems, and you have been back in the shop 3 or more times for the issue, please contact us to see if we can help you receive a new car, or a full or partial refund:

TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKS in 2005-2006 Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum , Chrysler 300, and Jeep Commander models

WATER LEAKS in Jeep Wrangler models (we have handled hundreds of these pertaining specifically to the 2008 model)

SEVERE VIBRATION (known as “Death Wobble”) in 2005-2008 Jeep Wrangler models

VIBRATION in 2006-2007 Chrysler Pacifica models

BRAKE FAILURE in 2006-2007 Dodge Dakota models

2005-2006 Harley Davidson models are having problem with the bikes charging

PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG LIGHT in 2006 Kia Spectra models

BRAKES AND ROTOR FAILURE in Nissan Titan and Armada models

BRAKE PROBLEMS with Kia Sedona models

For more information on lemon law help, call us at 1-800-LEMON-LAW or visit our website.

Auto Makers Pile On Buyer Incentives

by Jonathan Welsh
Thursday, September 13, 2007provided by

The home-mortgage mess is hitting the auto business, as interest rates on car loans creep upward and many people find it hard to qualify for credit to buy a new vehicle. But for consumers with good credit, it’s deal time.

Auto dealers are eager to clear out a growing number of leftovers as 2008 models arrive. Some have more unsold current-year models than usual in stock, reflecting an industry wide sales picture that worsened through the year. Total U.S. auto sales could fall below 16 million vehicles this year, according to analysts — the lowest in a decade. To clear up the glut, some car makers — especially the Big Three U.S. companies — are using perks like rebates and low financing rates to attract interest.

Lincoln MKX, and Chrysler LLC is offering a $4,500 rebate on its 2007 minivans. Even the notoriously incentive-stingy Honda Motor Co. is offering below-market 2.9% financing on its popular Odyssey minivan. All told, the percentage of transactions involving rebates grew to 49% this summer from 42% a year ago, according to Power Information Network, a unit of researcher J.D. Power & Associates. In certain cases, buyers don’t even have to settle for the outgoing model: Some 2008 models also carry surprising incentives. Chrysler’s Jeep Commander, for example, offers a $3,000 rebate.

Assessing the effect of the subprime crisis

Difficulties in the subprime-mortgage business and the broader decline of home prices in many markets have hurt other parts of the economy, but car makers, dealers and others in the auto industry are still assessing their effect. The housing market has a big impact on consumers’ ability to afford a new vehicle, and many are buying less-expensive cars with fewer luxury features or putting off purchases altogether.

The result has contributed to the retail auto sales slowdown. The National Automobile Dealers Association had predicted earlier this year that 2007 sales of cars and light trucks in the U.S. would total about 16.5 million, roughly the same as last year. Now the trade group says sales could fall as low as 16.1 million.

At the same time, 24% of auto financing and leasing transactions in July and August had interest rates lower than 5%, compared with 33% in the year-earlier period, according to J.D. Power. In August, the average rate was 7.3%. Fuel prices also remain high, and a weak dollar continues to make certain European models expensive.

The National Automobile Finance Association, a trade group that represents subprime lenders, says the mortgage crisis and changes to federal law that make it more difficult for consumers to file for bankruptcy protection have driven up the number of car-loan delinquencies. The group says nearly 12% of subprime vehicle loans reported by its members were delinquent last year, up from 6.5% a year earlier.

Autumn: Best time to go car shopping

Savvy consumers have known for years that autumn is the best time to shop for a car. The pending flood of new models in October and November drives dealers to more aggressively market vehicles from the outgoing model year in the fall.

In the past 20 years or so, however, manufacturers have increasingly sought to set their new cars apart by bringing them to market at other times of the year. The practice has blurred the lines somewhat between this year’s and next year’s models. Manufacturers favor the approach because their vehicles tend to get more attention from consumers who aren’t distracted by the regular introduction of several competing models. For dealers, it’s a way to bring people into their showrooms during what would otherwise be slow periods.

British off-road vehicle maker Land Rover, a unit of Ford, rolled out its LR2 compact luxury SUV in April as a 2008 model. The early introduction placed it ahead of similar models expected from rivals. The car maker’s finance arm, Land Rover Capital Group, offers a 3.9% finance rate—on the low side for a new model. But consumers can often find attractive rates through banks and credit unions, so a car company’s so-called captive finance businesses often use lower rates as a way to draw more customers who would otherwise arrange loans elsewhere.

Christopher Marchand, Land Rover’s vice president of retail operations, says the 3.9% finance rate on the LR2 is “middle of the road” when compared with what buyers might find at a bank. Still, consumers who have watched finance rates increase lately are likely to find the rates attractive, says Paul Taylor, chief economist for the National Automobile Dealers Association.

“In an increasingly more difficult credit environment, a range of 3.9% to 7.9% is looking pretty good,” Mr. Taylor says.

The well-reviewed Kia Sedona minivan, a product of Hyundai Motor Co., is offering buyers $3,000 cash back on 2007 models. General Motors corp. is dangling a huge rebate — as much as $7,500 — on its high-end Cadillac XLR, which lists for $78,335, and is offering 5.9% financing on the just-released 2008 Buick Enclave.

Chrysler’s Sebring, a midsize sedan that competes with top-selling models like Toyota Motor Corp.’s Camry and Honda’s Accord, was redesigned about a year ago and is now available with 0% financing or a $1,500 rebate. Such deals are often advertised and relatively easy to find when researching cars on the Internet. However, there are other incentives that manufacturers dole out locally for dealers to use at their discretion.

Toyota rarely offers incentives on its best-selling Camry sedan or most of its other models, but a Toyota spokesman says the company does use so-called dealer incentives “for tactical purposes,” or on a case-by-case basis to attract customers.

And they do attract customers, even to vehicles that might seem unappealing. Though sales of gas-guzzling large pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram are down 2.2% for the year, Mr. Taylor says, there was an upswing of 9.1% in August sales thanks to “vigorous incentive competition” among makers like GM, Ford and Toyota that included rebates in some cases of several thousand dollars.

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