Attention all distressed drivers throughout Ocean County, New Jersey:  If you are having continuous  problems with your car, don’t miss the Wednesday May 9th edition of “Eye On Ocean County.”  Host Christina Sacco is joined by NJ Lemon Law Attorney Amy Bennecoff and 1 800 LEMON LAW Communications Director Michael Sacks for 30 minutes of useful news and information regarding the New Jersey Lemon Law.

The special also includes a discussion on the 2012 Car Complaint Index, tips for purchasing a car without being taken for a ride and the importance of a manufacturers warranty.   Ocean County Comcast viewers can join us Wednesday evening,  May 9 at 8:30 on Comcast Channel 97 and 9:00 on Channel 19.

According to Clarence Ditlow of the Center for Auto Safety, The New Jersey Lemon Law is one of the strongest Lemon Laws in the Country  for several reasons.  First and foremost, the problem needs to occur three times but only the  first instance needs to be  in the first two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.  This period is much longer than other surrounding states, namely Pennsylvania (12 months/12,000 miles) or Delaware (12 months/no mileage limit). Secondly, if the car is out of service for 20 days or more in the 24 month/24,000 miles period, it qualifies as a lemon. And these days do not have to be consecutive or for the same problem. In addition, there is a provision in the Law that a manufacturer has only one chance to fix a problem which could cause death or bodily harm, such as stalling on the highway.  If the issue happens a second time, the driver has the right to file a claim under the Lemon Law. There are very few states that offer this special provision, including Ohio.

Lastly, the New Jersey Lemon Law provides completely free legal help to the consumer.  If you prevail, the manufacturer must pay all attorney fees and legal costs ON TOP OF what the consumer receives.  And if the consumer does not prevail, there is no cost.  Thus, there is no cost and no risk to filing a Lemon Law claim.  (Please be advised though this is NOT the case if you file through the State.  The NJ Lemon Law Unit  requires a $50 filing fee and all decisions are binding and final.  Be very weary about trying to fight your claim in that venue.) The New Jersey Lemon Law covers all new cars, non-commercial trucks and motorcycles that are  leased, purchased or registered in the Garden  State.  Remedies include a new vehicle, a full repurchase or a partial refund and continued ownership of the vehicle.

Of course, if you fall outside the NJ Lemon Law parameters, or if you purchased your vehicle used, you still have a rights under the Federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.  Under the Federal Warranty Law, if you have been back three or more times under the original or extended manufacturers warranty, you could be entitled to monetary compensation to reflect the diminished value of the vehicle as a result of the defect.  And just like the Lemon Law, representation is completely cost-free.

For more information on the New Jersey Lemon Law, visit www.lemonlaw.com or call 1 800 LEMON LAW. We will be glad to discuss your situation and how we can help.

If your car spends more time in the shop than it does on the road, free lemon law help is available. The best part – it won’t cost you a thing.

Michael Sacks, an automotive consumer advocate and director of communications for 1-800 Lemon Law,  was recently featured on KYW TV’s “Talk Philly” to discuss distressed drivers’ rights under the Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware Lemon Laws.  many folks are unaware that the Lemon law provides completely free legal representation and consumers can be entitled to a new car, a full repurchase, or significant monetary compensation and continued ownership of their car.   To date,  1 800 LEMON LAW has provided free lemon law help to more than 65,000 consumers throughout the Northeast.  

If you feel you may have a lemon car on your hands and would like free lemon law help, call us at 1 800 Lemon Law ( -800 536-6652) or fill out our Get Rid of Your Lemon form.  You have nothing to lose, except your lemon!

Looking to learn more about car buying and your consumer rights?  WBRE Eyewitness News interviewed 1-800 LEMON LAW Communications Director Michael Sacks on a variety of lemon and car buying stories this month.

The first story,  ‘the list the manufacturers don’t want you to see’, looked at the popular Car Complaint Index, the list of cars that receive the most complaints per sales according the Center for Auto Safety.  From hybrid vehicles with sudden acceleration complaints to SUVs with brake issues, the car compliant index is a list that all car buyers need to see before venturing to the car lot.

Michael also provided some helpful tips when it comes to buying a new car:

Finally, WBRE looked at why the Pennsylvania Lemon Law is so useful to consumers. If you’ve bought a new car and think it’s a lemon, help is available. The law stipulates if you’re back in the shop three or more times for the same problem under warranty, or your car is in the shop for an extended period, you are entitled to legal compensation, completely free of charge. Remedies could include a complete repurchase, a brand new car, or significant monetary compensation and continued ownership of your car.

Read all 3 articles and check out the accompanying videos on PAHOMEPAGE.COM
The List Car Manufacturers Don’t Want You to See
The Lemon Law and You
Tips for Successful Car Shopping

A couple months ago, we were contacted by Chris Cuomo’s producers at ABC’s  Nightline regarding a story on the high pressure fuel pump problem occurring in many BMW Turbo vehicles, including the 135i, 335 i, 535 i, and x6 models.  Together with an amazing consumer advocate, Allison Mangot, who had two BMWs with high pressure fuel pump problems– both bought back by the manufacturer, we helped the producers put together a segment which would shed significant national light on a problem which has been plaguing many BMW drivers for years.  Of course, readers to the lemon law blog know that we have been promoting this issue for quite a while. In fact, Kimmel and Silverman has successfully resolved numerous claims regarding with this problem, throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Maryland and New England, with our clients receiving anywhere from significant monetary compensation in the thousands, to complete repurchases.  We were proud to not only see 1-800-LEMON-LAW Founding Partner Bob Silverman featured in the story, but also our very own blog and the many comments left behind by its readers.

The story has resulted in a major national recall, affecting hundreds of thousands of BMW vehicles.  All those affected should be receiving notification soon. But one would wonder why it has to take a national news story to force the manufacturer’s hand?  And also, we are questioning whether this recall will actually be the end-all, be-all to what could be a dangerous problem. We can’t even count the number of clients who have been left stranded on the road not just once, but sometimes three, four, or  five times.

The fact also remains that even with this recall, BMW drivers do have rights under State Lemon Laws and Federal Warranty Laws.  We encourage those who have been in repeatedly for the high pressure fuel pump to consider legal actions against the manufacturer. You paid a very high premium for this vehicle and you certainly did not get what you paid for.  As you know, legal representation under the Lemon Law and Federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act is completely cost-free with BMW paying all attorneys fees and legal costs on top of what you receive if you prevail. With our firm,there is no cost or risk to filing a claim, win or lose.  For more information, please e-mail us or give us a call at 1 800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652) or contact another consumer attorney to determine if your situation applies and if you are entitled to remedy. Additional information regarding this problem can also be found at bmwproblems.com.

We would like to hear your thoughts regarding the story which follows.  And for those who do have the recall performed, we are interested to hear if you are still having problems after.  Our sincere thanks to Lauren Pearle, Chris Cuomo and  the talented production team at ABC News, and to Allison Mangot for ensuring that we were part of this effort.

Hey Ohio Drivers:  Do you have a question about your lemon law and consumer rights?  Join 1-800 LEMON LAW Communications Director Michael Sacks live on the AutoSmarts4U radio show, Saturday May 15th 1-3pm on News Talk 610 WTVN and call in  live at 614-821-WTVN (9886).  We’ll be answering all your questions on State and Federal Laws, car buying, recalls and more. And click here to check out Michael’s appearance this morning on Fox 28′s “Good Day Columbus.”

The Car Allowance Rebate System (aka Cash for Clunkers) has ceased, but that does not mean you cannot get cash if your car is a clunker. 

We repeatedly discuss the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, which provides distressed drivers with monetary damages if their car, truck or motorcycle has been back in the shop repeatedly for the same repairs, but does not fall under Lemon Law parameters.   Lemon Law Lawyer Craig Thor Kimmel recently joined Ukee Washington on Eyewitness News This Morning on the CW Philly to discuss the Magnuson Moss Law and how it works.

Under the Federal law, which provides protection for any consumer who purchases a product over $25, a consumer can receive monetary damages from the manufacturer to reflect the diminished value of the product as a result of the repeated problems.  At Kimmel & Silverman, we have used this Law to help folks with faulty vehicles, motorcycles, ATVS, computers and appliances. 

The best part for drivers who use this law is that they are entitled to monetary compensation even if the vehicle is finally fixed after repeated attempts. You receive money PLUS you get to keep your car.  In addition, the car is not branded in any way on carfax, the warranty remains completely in effect, and you do not need to disclose that you received this money at the time of sale or trade.  Also, just like the Lemon Law, legal help is 100% cost-free.

Here are some recent Magnsuon Moss victories.  (Of course, each case is different and we cannot guarantee that you would be entitled to the same compensation). 

2004 Mazda RX8: currently has over 57,000 miles
Engine flooded—replaced numerous components , including cat converter
Consumer received $6,000

2007 Suzuki SX4: currently has 60,000 miles
Defective engine block at 42,000 miles, out of service 2 months
Consumer received $4,500

2004 Volvo C70: currently has 37,000 miles
Car would not start x3
Consumer received $3,000

2007 Saturn Ion: currently has 43,000 miles
Loss of power starting at 15,000 miles—replaced wiring harness
Consumer received $3,000

2008 Cadillac Escalade: currently has 23,000 miles
Purchased used, replaced trailer hitch cover x3, stalling x2
Consumer received $4,000

2007 Subaru Impreza: Currently has 21,000 miles
Problem occurred right outside of Lemon Law
Check engine light x3—replaced left side cylinder & short block, out of service 46 days
Consumer received $7,500

2007 Hummer H3: currently has 23,000 miles
Car leased; Door lock & window malfunctions x6
Consumer received $3,000

2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo: currently has 60,000 miles
Purchased used; check engine light x4 under warranty
Consumer received $2,750

2004 Cadillac SRX: currently has 43,000 miles
Purchased used; engine replaced plus power steering leak x3
Consumer received $6,000

2005 GMC Sierra:  currently has 38,000 miles
Check engine light starting at 18,000 miles—eventually replaced turbo
Consumer received $4,000

If your car is still under an original or extended manufacturers warranty, and you have been in the shop three or more times for the same problem, please drop us a line to see if you are entitled to remedy under the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.

Thanks to the cash for clunkers program, more than 700,000 gas guzzlers are now off the road, replaced by more fuel-efficient vehicles.  It is a tremendous accomplishment and no doubt consumers and car dealers alike really profited off the program.

While the program officially came to a close Monday night, there are still car buyers out there waiting to hear if their rebate will go through.  Some have been told they will find out in a couple of weeks. As we discussed previously in the lemon law blog, there was quite a bit of fine print associated with this promotion and it is the dealer’s responsibility to ensure that the consumer qualifies for the rebate.  After all, if the dealer doesn’t do their job verifying everything prior to the transaction, they are the ones left stranded if the rebate never comes, right?

The answer seems to be affirmative, but one dealer in Philadelphia decided to test that theory.  After they completed the sale, and trashed the trade, the dealer found out that the insurance on this car had lapsed for two weeks during the last year of ownership.  That means they would not receive their rebate and that left them raving mad. They went back to the buyer, a second-year medical student, to try and recoup their $3,500.  And when we say try and recoup, we mean demand and threaten. 

So, who won and who was right?  For the answer, take at look at KYW TV Consumer Reporter Jim Donovan’s piece (featuring Kimmel & Silverman’s Founding Partner Craig Thor Kimmel) by clicking here.

If you find yourself in a position where you have already turned in your clunker and the dealer is demanding more cash, please contact us.

Looking for useful, informative, entertaining news segments on your lemon law and consumer rights?  Have you checked out our you tube channel?  The 1-800 LEMON LAW channel  (www.youtube.com/1800lemonlaw) provides all sorts of interesting interviews from our staff.  Learn everything you need to know when it comes to buying a car or fighting for your rights.  Visit us today, and by all means, if you have any questions about the programs you view, drop us a line or give us a call at 1-800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652).

As we previously mentioned, the New Jersey Lemon Law may be expanded to include additional protection for distressed drivers.  The NJ Lemon Law currently protects consumers who suffer a problem that occurs in the first 18,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first, and continues to occur three or more times despite repair attempts from an authorized manufacturers dealership.   Assembly Bill 1954, sponsored by Assemblywoman Mila M. Jasey, looks to expand the lemon law parameters to include problems that occur in the first 24,000 miles or 24 months.  Furthermore, consumers who suffer a serious defect which is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven would be able to file a lemon law claim if the problem cannot be fixed after one repair attempt.  We have seen similar provisions in other State Lemon Laws, including Ohio.

1-800 LEMON LAW Communications Director Michael Sacks discusses this Bill and all of its benefits, plus provides an update on the Chrysler and GM restructuring, all this weekend on News 12 New Jersey’s “In Your Corner with Walt Kane.” If you live in Central or North Jersey, check your local listings for show dates and times.

Many distressed drivers throughout New Jersey are not aware they are entitled to free legal representation if their car is defective. Consumer rights under the New Jersey Lemon Law and Federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act will be discussed on “Eye On Ocean County.”  The program will air on Comcast throughout Ocean County, New Jersey Wednesday, July 8 at 9pm on Channel 19.

Guests will include NJ Lemon Law Attorney Amy Bennecoff and Automotive Consumer Advocate Michael Sacks from the law firm of Kimmel and Silverman.  Topics discussed include rights and remedies under the New Jersey Lemon Law; car-buying tips to ensure that your dream car does not turn into a nightmare; and an update on how lemon law and breach of warranty claims for Jeep, Dodge and Chrysler drivers will be handled once Fiat takes over ownership of Chrysler.

The New Jersey Lemon Law is the second most effective lemon law in the Nation, according to the Center for Auto Safety.  The Law covers vehicles with a significant defect within the first 24 months or 18,000 miles that can’t be repaired despite a reasonable number of repair attempts, normally three.  The Law also covers vehicles that are in the shop for repair 20 days in the first years and those days do not have to be consecutive. Remedies under the NJ Lemon Law could include a new car or full or partial refund. In addition, there are other remedies available for vehicles that may not fall under the Lemon Law mileage provisions but are still under manufacturers warranty.

We hope Ocean County viewers will join us July 8 at 9pm on Channel 19.

1-800 LEMON LAW attorneys Bob Silverman and Amy Bennecoff have received a significant amount of exposure and kudos this past week for working with Chrysler’s and Fiat’s attorney to ensure lemon law and breach of warranty protection for Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep drivers.  Kimmel and Silverman was the only lemon law firm in the Nation to be involved in these meetings.  

In addition to interviews with Comcast, Philadelphia Inquirer, and Automotive News, Bob Silverman and our client Bob Buchecker were featured in this Action News segment which aired Friday night on WPVI TV in Philadelphia.

Get the full story by clicking here.

NBC 10 Consumer Reporter Tracy Davidson recently reported on the 2009 Car Complaint Index.  As Tracy reports, the big story is not which cars are on the list, but rather WHY these cars are on the list in the first place.

Lemon Law Attorney Bob Silverman and the 1-800-LEMON LAW team were answering car questions on KYW TV Eyewitness News yesterday and many callers were calling regarding the Chrysler bankruptcy and its effect on consumer rights.  Check out what Bob has to say to Eyewitness News consumer reporter Jim Donovan by clicking here.

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.

Christina Gill Roseman, Managing Attorney of Kimmel and Silverman’s Western Pennsylvania Office, was recently featured on WTAE TV Action News in Pittsburgh discussing the PA Lemon Law.  In addition, the story featured one of our clients who received a complete buyback after filing a claim against General Motors for her lemon Chevrolet Trailblazer.  Did you know that PennDOT says that the Chevrolet Trailblazer is the number one lemon car in Pennsylvania?  With the number of Trailblazer cases we take throughout the Northeast, we can certainly believe it.

Following the news story, Christina was invited to participate in a lemon law web chat on the station’s website, where she offered a heaping dose of helpful advise to distressed drivers throughout Pittsburgh.  You can read the transcript by clicking here. 

This year, the Car Complaint Index takes on a whole new meaning, as more and more consumers are complaining that their dealers can not duplicate their problems.  In addition, many components are on back order, requiring many distressed drivers to wait months before having their vehicles properly fixed.  Lemon Law Attorney Craig Thor Kimmel joined Fox 29 consumer reporter Michelle Buckman on Good Day Philadelphia to discuss how drivers can still find their way on the road to recovery despite these tremendous obstacles.  You can read the whole story by clicking here.

Watch the video here:

Looking to buy a car?  Would you believe that in today’s economy, it may be better to purchase a new car than a pre-owned one?  Lemon Law Attorney Craig Thor Kimmel discussed the pros of buying a new car with Michelle Buckman of Fox 29 News today.  The interview, which was taped at the Philadelphia Auto Show, airs tonight during the 5pm newscast.

So, what are the selling points, when it comes to buying a new car?

First, there’s the warranty.  Many folks who are calling 1-800 LEMON LAW regarding their used cars have aftermarket warranties which are worth less than the paper they are written on.  The cost of repairing a car, when you include both labor and parts, could be skyrocketing and if you don’t have a manufacturers warranty, you could be stuck with a huge bill.  A new car means you are ensured a manufacturers warranty and that your repairs will be covered by skilled technicians using manufacturer-approved parts.  Thus, the manufacturer is responsible for the quality of the repair.  Also, in many states, including Pennsylvania, only new cars are covered under Lemon Law.  (There are Federal Laws to assist consumers who have pre-owned cars with manufacturers warranties but the maximum remedies are not the same.)

Second, there are amazing financing deals available for folks with good credit.  The dealers need to get rid of these cars, and now that they have 2008 leftovers and 2009 models, the inventory is larger than ever. Those with good credit scores are now in the “drivers seat” when it comes to getting a great deal on a great car.

Third is technology.  Visiting the car show today, we were thrilled with all the new safety features available to consumers.  Plus, more and more manufacturers are really thinking about fuel economy and how to save their drivers money each week at the pump.

Fourth, there may be an added incentive from Uncle Sam.  Hybrid drivers are now looking at tax deductions ranging from $1,000-3,000, plus there is a bill being introduced which could provide any new car buyer an average of a $1,300 deduction on a $25,000 car.  The government is looking at ways to convince consumers to purchase these cars, so that our manufacturers can rebuild their companies and their profits. 

If you have questions about car buying, drop us a note and we’ll be happy to help any way we can.  In the meantime, if you are in the Philadelphia area, we urge you to check out the Philadelphia Auto Show opening tomorrow and running through February 8 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.  It’s the ideal setting to view all different makes and models, without being attacked by salespeople.  Happy Shopping!

When college student and Kimmel & Silverman client Ryan Robinson purchased the car of his dreams, a 2007 Ford Mustang with 13,000 miles, he had no idea he was stepping into a puddle of problems. However, even though the carfax was clean, Robinson found his car turned out to have previously been flooded.  He has filed suit against the dealer for misrepresentation and remarkably enough, we signed another client today who purchased a flooded BMW from the same dealer.

CBS 3Consumer Reporter Jim Donovan has Robinson’s story, and also some important tips from ASE Certified Mechanic Steve Ruch on how to spot a flood car.  You can read the story and view the video by clicking here.

Also remember, when purchasing a used car, there are a lot of questions you need to ask to make sure your dream car was not previously someone else’s nightmare.  Check out our Lemon Dodger worksheet, and make sure you read some of our past blog entries on used car buying.  Even though you are purchasing a used vehcile, you still are making a significant financial commitment and if you don’t watch yourself, you could find yourself paying out of pocket for costly repairs and part replacement.  We have seen many instances where it cost a consumer more to purchase a used car than it would have to purchase a new one.

Lastly, if you feel your car was misrepresented at the time of sale, inquire about your rights with us or another consumer attorney.  It never costs anything to ask a question and the advice provided could prove to be invaluable.

As the big three continue their quest for the $34 billion bailout, Chrysler and GM are being pressured by lawmakers to revisit the possibility of merging.   Edmunds is reporting that a number of dealers, suppliers and others staged a rally in favor of the merge this morning near the steps of the U.S. Capital.

Lawmakers argue that if Chrysler and GM do merge, they will require less federal aid and speed up industry consolidation. There is a chance a merger would be a condition if they receive federal aid.

Lemon Law Attorney Bob Silverman appeared on WYOU Interactive News Wednesday Night in Wilkes Barre, PA and discussed the bailout. While many folks are against the rescue plan, there is no question that a bankruptcy would not only continue to wreak havoc on our economy and add millions to those on the unemployment line, but also cause many more dealerships to close.  These dealer closures are already leaving many drivers stranded, travelling hundreds of miles for warranty repairs, and waiting for inspection stickers and registration renewals. Next week, we will be providing tips on how to deal with the dealers during this difficult time.

Late last week, we taped a story on flood cars (Check back with the lemon law blog for air date and station).  A young man surfed the web for a great deal on a beautiful 2007 Silver Ford Mustang.  It was loaded with every feature he could ask for….and a few problems he didn’t want.  After he purchased his car, he found a significant amount of rust under the seats.  Upon further inspection, he noticed the carpeting appeared to be replaced. He called 1-800 LEMON LAW for advice on how to handle the situation. Needless to say, our experts uncovered additional evidence that proves this car was involved in some sort of flood and had been immersed in water.  We are currently representing the young man as he fights the dealer to get his money back.

The wet weather down South caused a number of vehicles to be caught in flood waters.  These cars were washed, title and all, and promptly put on the auction block where dealers have purchased them at rock bottom prices.  Now, they are sitting on lots across the Nation, aiming to attract unsuspecting consumers looking for a great deal on a pre-owned car.

While there is no sure way to detect vehicle flood damage, the National Automobile Dealers Association offers primary advice that may be used to detect significant water damage. At a minimum, a prospective buyer should:

Check the vehicle’s title history on carfax,it may state whether it has sustained flood damage (However, carfax should not be your only tool.  In the case of this young man, his carfax came out clean); 

Examine the interior and the engine compartment for evidence of water and grit from suspected submersion; 

Check for recently shampooed or replaced carpet; 

Look under the floorboard carpet for water residue or stain marks from evaporated water not related to air-conditioning pan leaks; 

Inspect for rusting on the inside of the car and under interior carpeting and visually inspect all interior upholstery and door panels for any evidence of fading; 

Check under the dashboard for dried mud and residue, and note any evidence of mold or a musty odor in the upholstery, carpet or trunk; 

Check for rust on screws in the console or other areas where the water would normally not reach unless submerged; 

Look for mud or grit in alternator crevices, behind wiring harnesses and around the small recesses of starter motors, power steering pumps and relays; 

Complete a detailed inspection of the electrical wiring system looking for rusted components, water residue or suspicious corrosion; and 

Inspect the undercarriage of other components for evidence of rust and flaking metal that would not normally be associated with late model vehicles.

If you sense something is not right, even if the carfax comes back clean, have your car checked out by an independent body shop.  If you can prove that your car has flood history, and it was not dislcosed by the selling dealer, you could be entitled to significant monetary remedy or perhaps a full refund.  Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Hey New Jersey drivers:  Has your car been in the shop three times for the same problem under the original or extended manufacturers warranty?  You could be entitled to money back, or possibly a new car under the New Jersey Lemon Law and the Federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.  Check out your rights this weekend on News 12 New Jersey’s consumer news program “In Your Corner,” airing all weekend long. (Check News 12.com for times) Automotive Consumer Advocate Michael Sacks, Director of Communications with Kimmel and Silverman, joins Walt Kane to discuss why New Jersey has the second most-effective lemon law in the Country.  If you have a car that’s driving you crazy, drop us a line and we will be happy to determine if you are entitled to recourse.

We frequently mention our TV and radio appearances on the blog, with the hope that consumers will tune in and learn.  Automotive Consumer Advocate Michael Sacks, 1-800 LEMON LAW Director of Communications, recently joined Spencer Graves on WDEL’s Consumer Hotline, when a call came in from a distressed driver with a Volvo XC90.  He had close to 50,000 miles on his vehicle and he was constantly complaining about a transmission problem.  The dealer was being as helpful as possible; they replaced several components but after a while, they told him it was “a normal characteristic of the vehicle.”  The listener did not know what to do; he loves his vehicle but he thought he was entitled to something for his problem. Michael asked the listener to forward his repair invoices to him Monday morning.

Michael reviewed the invoices with the 1-800-LEMON LAW legal team and it turned out the listener had a strong claim under the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.  Three weeks later, he settled his claim for $7,000, plus he gets to keep his vehicle, the extended warranty is in full effect (so if there is a transmission problem, Volvo is obligated to fix it), and the car is not branded in any way, shape or form.  Needless to say, our client was very happy.

This comes on the heels of Ernie from Wilkes Barre, PA who called when he heard Michael on WILK News Radio. He had already gotten rid of his Land Rover after he suffered numerous problems and he wanted to know if we could do anything.  He sent in his paperwork and Lemon Law Attorney Jacqueline Herritt succeeded in getting him $5,000. Ernie received $5,000 just for listening, and faxing in a few papers!  And, of course, neither consumer paid a dime for our legal help.

Remember, never be afraid to ask for help.  If you want to see if you have a potential lemon law or breach of warranty claim, click here and we will get in touch with you promptly.  And remember, to keep an eye on our blog for our next TV and/or radio appearance.

With gas prices on the rise, we are getting more and more calls from motorcycle riders. Think you have a lemon bike? If you live in Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Montgomery, or Delaware Counties, check out lemon law attorney Craig Thor Kimmel on Comcast Newsmakers on CNN Headline News. Click here for times.

Lemon Law Attorneys Bob Silverman and Jacqueline Herritt were featured on WYOU TV Interactive News last night, discussing consumers rights under the Pennsylvania Lemon Law and the Federal Magnuson Moss Warranty Act.  The program also offered viewers the chance to call in and discuss their lemon horror stories with Kimmel and Silverman staff members. You can watch the video here.

In the meantime, here is a quick refresher on the PA Lemon Law:

• The first problem must occur in the first 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. (If the problem occurs after the first 12 months, the consumer would have a claim under Federal Law.)
• The problem must significantly affect the use, value or safety of the vehicle.
• The problem must occur three times (or more) under the manufacturers warranty.
• OR the car should be in the shop 30 or more days in the first year and they don’t need to be consecutive.
• Maximum remedy under the PA Lemon Law is a new car (MSRP to MSRP swap), or a complete buyback of the car, including finance charges, taxes and tags, minus a small mileage offset based on the mileage when the problem was first reported. 
• A consumer could also receive monetary damages to reflect the diminished value of the car as a result of the problems suffered, plus they get to keep their car.  The car’s warranty remains in effect; the consumer does not need to disclose that they received money at the time of trade or sale; and the car is NOT branded a lemon on carfax or autocheck.
• Motorcycles and used cars are not covered, however if the vehicles are in the shop three or more times under warranty for the same problem, they could qualify for monetary recourse under the Federal Law. 
• Legal help is completely cost-free under both the State and Federal Laws.  If the consumer prevails, the manufacturer must pay all attorney fees and legal costs ON TOP OF what the consumer receives. If a lemon law firm does take your case, they should not charge you if you do not prevail.  Therefore, fighting for your rights under the Lemon Law is cost-free and risk-free.

If you have any additional questions regarding the Pennsylvania Lemon Law, click here.  To read about Lemon Laws in other states, click here.

Remember that pop quiz we snuck on you a couple weeks back?  How did you do? It’s amazing how many folks can’t separate fact from fiction when it comes to car buying and your lemon law rights.  Fox Philadelphia consumer reporter Michelle Buckman was equally surprised at some of the answers when she gave the quiz to her viewers on Good Day Philadelphia this morning.  She was joined by lemon law attorney Craig Thor Kimmel.  You can watch the video by clicking here or visit her blog by clicking here.