CA SB26

Changes the operative date for procedures governing motor vehicle restitution or replacement claims under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act from April 1, 2025 to July 1, 2025

Makes the new lemon law procedures optional for manufacturers, who must elect to be governed by them by reporting to the Arbitration Certification Program within the Department of Consumer Affairs

Requires manufacturers to make an irrevocable 5-year election to participate in these procedures, with elections due by October 31 for coverage of the following five calendar years

Manufacturers wishing to cover vehicles sold in 2025 and prior years must elect within 30 days of the bill's effective date (signed April 2, 2025)

Consumers who sell their vehicle after demanding restitution or replacement cannot seek civil penalties unless they first provided written notice to the buyer about the basis for seeking restitution and any pending manufacturer action