From cutting-edge technology to environmental benefits, electric vehicles are rapidly changing how we drive. But EVs also come with new dangers — including hazardous fires and spontaneous combustions. These fires are often the result of flawed systems and defects like leaking fuel lines, faulty wiring, or overheated vehicle batteries.
Under California’s lemon law cases, the manufacturer is required to replace a vehicle or offer a full refund. Yet many automakers try to avoid accountability, leaving drivers to deal with insurers instead. If your car caught fire because of a defect, contact Brennan Law today to take legal action and recover the full compensation you’re entitled.
Is this a lemon law case?
If your car caught fire, and the cause was linked to a defect, you may have a valid lemon law claim. California’s lemon law protects drivers when repeated repairs fail to fix dangerous issues, or when the defect involves critical fuel, heat, or electrical systems.
Many auto fires start at the fuel rail, which is located near the injectors and pressure regulators. These parts use O-rings to maintain pressure, but over time, exposure to dry heat or wear can cause cracking. A failed O-ring may cause a fuel leak that sprays combustible liquid inside the engine bay, igniting a fire.
There are many defects that can lead to car fires, including:
- Oil and fuel line leaks
- Oil circulation failures leading to engine damage
- Turbo-charger system issues
- Incorrect repairs to vehicle electrical systems
- Cruise control malfunctions
- Engine lubrication system damage
Car fires can also result from internal defects in the battery system. Electric vehicle batteries store energy under high voltage and operate under tightly controlled conditions. When something goes wrong — whether due to overheating, software issues, or design flaws — the results can be just as dangerous as a fuel system fire.
In some cases, these battery-related defects lead to spontaneous ignition without any collision. Common battery defects involve:
- Thermal runaway where a single overheating cell triggers a chain reaction.
- Software defects in the battery management system that cause charging, voltage, or temperature issues.
- Poorly assembled or loose electrical connections which can create hotspots or electrical faults.
- Contamination, damaged separators, or unstable materials that may trigger a fire without warning.
Beyond the damage to your vehicle, these fires can lead to serious financial loss and emotional distress. But don’t wait for the dealership or manufacturer to take responsibility. Taking the next step can help you protect your rights and move forward.
Tell us about your case
If your car caught fire, Brennan Law wants to hear your case. As a premier lemon law attorney in Los Angeles, we’ve helped hundreds of drivers fight back against manufacturers and dealerships that failed to fix dangerous problems. We know the details matter. We’ll review your vehicle records, including repair visits, and walk you through your legal scenario step by step. Call us for a free consultation today.