California car owners may hear about a document called Technical Service Bulletins (often referred to as a “TSB”) issued for their vehicles but often do not understand why the document is important. Often, car owners may confuse a TSB for a recall. However, while TSB’s and recalls may both indicate underlying issues afflicting the vehicle that would subject it to California’s Lemon Law, a TSB has very distinct differences. If you have not read our post on recalls and their relevance in a California lemon law case, please feel free to visit that information here.
Edmunds.com, a leading automotive information resource, defines recalls as follows:
Recalls should not be confused with technical service bulletins (TSBs) which are issued by the manufacturer for less serious problems that affect the normal operation of the vehicle. Sometimes called “secret warranties,” TSBs cover known problems and provide repair instructions for service technicians and accordingly are distributed to all of the manufacturer’s dealerships.
Unlike recall-related repairs, which are performed on a no-questions-asked basis, TSB repairs are made only to resolve problems that can be verified by dealer service technicians. And generally these repairs will be free of charge only if the vehicle is still under warranty.
With regards to a lemon law matter, TSB’s are important because they indicate that an issue is known to the manufacturer and potentially widespread. Car manufacturers may also know of a problem and issue a TSB to try and address the problem but may still fail in being able to fix the issue for the consumer. Under the California Lemon Law, if the manufacturer cannot repair your vehicle under warranty after repeated attempts, you may be entitled to compensation.
At MMO Law, A.P.C. we have substantial experience litigating and negotiating lemon law claims throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, San Bernardino County, Bakersfield and Kern County, Palm Springs and many other counties throughout California. Call today at (310) 933-4493 for a free consultation with a California Lemon Law Lawyer regarding your potential Lemon Law claim.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is meant for general information and advertisement purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice.