How Technology is Changing the Landscape of Lemon Law Claims

Technology Innovations Bring New Lemon Law Challenges 

Modern vehicles have become rolling computers. High-tech electronics and software now control everything from engine performance to digital instruments. These innovations have the potential to introduce new types of defects that many state lemon laws did not initially consider.

The revolution in vehicle technology not only changes the way we drive but also how we deal with auto lemon laws. From automated driving features to over-the-air updates, these innovations create new challenges and opportunities for both consumers and manufacturers in the lemon law landscape.

What Potential Claims Could Be Made Due to Vehicle Technology Failures? 

Today’s vehicles increasingly rely on complex advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and digital instrument clusters. Software, multiple sensors, cameras, and computer algorithms control these features. In addition to these advancements, electric vehicles depend on charging software. When any of these sophisticated systems malfunction (sometimes due to improper calibration or when software or sensors fail), they can trigger persistent safety concerns and repeated repair attempts.

Here are three types of failures (there are many others) that may cause drivers to make a lemon law claim: 

1. Driver assistance system malfunctions. If a car’s ADAS repeatedly malfunctions, it can cause unexpected braking or steering issues. Unlike traditional mechanical problems that leave visible evidence like worn parts or fluid leaks, these electronic glitches can be intermittent. That makes them hard to document. The vehicle’s computer might not even register an error code during a dealer inspection. The owner knows there is a problem but finds it hard to prove recurring issues.
2. Digital instrument cluster system failures. These systems control speed displays, fuel gauges, backup cameras, and engine warning indicators. Random screen blackouts can result, and incorrect speed readings can display. The system can fail to display federally mandated backup camera views, or the screen may freeze. If these issues continue after multiple repair attempts, they create safety hazards. They can distract drivers who check the systems instead of paying attention to the road. The law requires working backup cameras and accurate speed displays (core vehicle operations), not to mention that these are essential for safety.
3. Electric vehicle (EV) power management software problems. EV power management software can be prone to defects that impact vehicle functionality and consumer safety. Battery cells, charging rates, power distribution to vehicle systems, and range estimates are monitored by the software. When these systems malfunction, the consequences can be severe and wide-ranging.

Common EV software-related issues include:

1. Inaccurate range predictions that can leave drivers stranded
2. Charging system malfunctions that either prevent proper charging or allow dangerous overcharging
3. Thermal management failures that can lead to battery degradation or safety concerns

Some EVs have received software glitches that cause unexpected power reductions. These may also cause complete system shutdowns while driving—a particularly dangerous scenario on highways.

Not all mechanics can fix EV software problems because traditional mechanical skills aren’t sufficient for diagnosis and repair. The proprietary nature of EV software systems often means that only manufacturer-authorized dealers can access and modify the software. This leaves consumers with limited options for addressing problems.

Important tip: It’s vital to document everything. Keep records of all dealer visits, software updates, and instances of malfunction. These records will be important should you need to file a lemon law claim.

Future Impact of Technology on Lemon Laws

AI and blockchain could change the lemon law landscape in the future. Blockchain could store transparent, permanent repair and maintenance records, while AI could predict vehicle failures. These technologies might also create new hurdles when consumers try to prove their cases.

With the rise of connected cars, privacy issues have also come up in the lemon law process. Vehicles now collect a lot of information about how they are used and how their drivers act. People who want to file a lemon law claim might have to give personal data to the manufacturer in order to prove their case, which could put this information at risk. A good lemon law lawyer can help provide the right evidence while protecting consumer privacy.

Manufacturers’ Obligations and Actions

Advanced telemetry and diagnostic systems allow manufacturers to identify and address potential issues before they become serious problems. This capability also raises questions about manufacturer responsibility; if a manufacturer can detect a potential issue through remote monitoring, does this create an obligation to address it? When a manufacturer pushes an update that fixes a persistent issue, does this constitute an attempted repair under lemon law? The digital nature of these fixes can make it challenging for consumers to maintain the detailed repair history typically needed for a successful claim.

Manufacturers have also begun using technology to streamline their response to potential lemon law claims. Many now use sophisticated case management systems that track repair attempts, customer complaints, and vehicle history across their dealer networks. This can lead to more efficient resolution of legitimate claims; it can also make it harder for consumers to succeed in borderline cases. That’s because the manufacturer’s data may not align with the customer’s experience. Allen Stewart P.C.’s automobile lemon law attorneys have experience dealing with manufacturers’ technical defenses. We can assist in ensuring equal access to and interpretation of vehicle data.

Allen Stewart, P.C.: The Lemon Law Experts for Today and Tomorrow

Technology’s influence on lemon law continues to evolve, requiring both consumers and manufacturers to adapt. While technology has introduced new challenges in pursuing lemon law claims, it has also created opportunities for more efficient resolution of vehicle issues. Success in this new landscape often depends on understanding both the legal requirements and the technical aspects of modern vehicles—a combination that typically requires professional legal assistance such as you can receive from Allen Stewart, P.C.

Our Attorneys Help Consumers Win Lemon Law Claims

We have won many lemon law cases for our clients. We can help you win your Texas auto lemon law case (or case in another state) against the manufacturer for problems you are having with your vehicle. When the time comes to pursue a lemon law claim, Allen Stewart, P.C., is here to help you establish and win your case. Please call us at 866-440-2460 or contact us online.