Defective braking systems are among the most common problems and reasons for lemon law cases. Modern vehicles use increasingly complex braking technology, yet brake pedal problems — including pedals that are stuck, fail to respond, or cause unexpected braking issues — are a major safety concern. When defective braking components can’t be fixed despite repeated repair attempts, you may have a lemon law claim.
Watch out ahead
Braking systems defects, design flaws, and manufacturing issues can put drivers and passengers in real danger. When brakes don’t perform as intended, a vehicle may fail to slow or stop properly, possibly causing a collision and severe injuries. Common brake problems include:
- Brake fluid leaks
- Electrical issues
- Software malfunctions
- Welding defects
- Defective brake pads
- Substandard materials
- Manufacturing defects
- Faulty designs
- Faulty brake lights
If your car has any of these defects, and they remain unresolved after repeated repair attempts at the dealership, you may have a strong lemon law claim depending on when you bought the car.
Recalls and lemon law cases
Brake-related recalls are more common than many drivers realize, and manufacturers issue millions of recalls each year. Some involve major safety concerns. In one high-profile case, Subaru recalled more than 2 million vehicles after exposure to contaminants caused brake light switches to malfunction.
Other recalls are because of performance issues like fluid leaks or contamination. General Motors recalled several 2018–2019 models after faulty components caused bubbles in the brake fluid, reducing rear brake performance. Manufacturers like Audi, Volkswagen, Dodge, Jeep, and Mercedes have faced similar issues.
Newer braking technologies also fail. Automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems are designed to engage the brakes when an obstacle is detected. But malfunctioning systems can trigger sudden, unnecessary stops, putting drivers at serious risk. The NHTSA has investigated Nissan AEB problems, and Jaguar and Land Rover have issued related recalls.
Even minor issues can cause both serious safety hazards and massive recalls. Toyota pulled nearly 9 million vehicles after floor mats trapped brake pedals and prevented drivers from stopping properly.
The types of lemon law cases we take
At Brennan Law, we specialize in fraud and lemon law cases involving braking system failures and other dangerous defects. Whether your vehicle is a newer car purchased from a major dealership or under warranty, our firm has the experience to fight for your rights.
As the top lemon law attorney in Los Angeles, we’ve helped clients recover compensation and replacements when defective braking systems compromised their safety. If you’re dealing with brake pedal problems or other defects that the dealership can’t fix, contact Brennan Law for a free consultation and get the compensation you deserve.