The Lemon Lawyer on Navigating Lemon Laws
About this episode
Navigating lemon laws can be complex, but Hovanis Margarian, known as the 'lemon lawyer', breaks it down. With nearly 20 years in the field, he shares insights on how consumers can claim refunds for defective vehicles. The discussion covers the intricacies of lemon law claims, including the importance of documentation and the potential for class action lawsuits. Additionally, the episode touches on notable recalls, like the GM 6.2-liter V8, and the dynamics between manufacturers and consumers. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge about their rights and the lemon law process.
Ever wondered what happens when your brand-new dream car turns into a mechanical nightmare? Hovanes Margarian, known as "The Lemon Lawyer," pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of automotive consumer protection law in this eye-opening conversation.
From his unique garage-turned-law-office where client vehicles undergo inspection alongside his personal collection (including a Ferrari SF90 Spider), Margarian reveals the inner workings of lemon law cases that have defined his 20-year career. With remarkable candor, he explains how manufacturers often make strategic decisions about settling claims based not just on case merit, but on their own financial timing and broader liability concerns.
The conversation delivers surprising insights that every car owner should know. Margarian explains why class action settlements frequently serve manufacturers better than consumers, offering modest compensation while extinguishing potentially valuable individual refund claims. He also shares how the timeline from claim to resolution can vary dramatically depending on a manufacturer's willingness to acknowledge defects.
Beyond legal strategies, the episode takes fascinating detours into automotive technology and history. Jeff explores car innovations directly descended from NASA's space program – from memory foam seats to anti-lock brakes – while Mike guides us through the 178-mile stretch of Route 66 that winds through Texas, highlighting iconic stops like Cadillac Ranch and the official midpoint between Chicago and Los Angeles.
Whether you're dealing with a problematic vehicle or simply fascinated by the intersection of automotive culture and consumer rights, this episode delivers valuable knowledge wrapped in entertaining conversation. Follow Hovanes on Instagram @Hovanes.Margarian_ESQ for more automotive legal insights and subscribe to hear more from the In Wheel Time team.
Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!
The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!
Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.
----- -----
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
[email protected]
Ford Mustang
"behind me are my couple of my cars so the Mustang super snake..."
The Ford Mustang Super Snake is a special version of the Mustang that has more power and sporty features. It's popular with people who love fast cars.
The Ford Mustang Super Snake is a high-performance variant of the Mustang, known for its powerful engine and sporty design. It's often modified for enhanced performance and is a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Shelby Cobra
"...spider and then this is the factory 5 1965 Shelby Cobra replica that we just finished building here actua..."
The Shelby Cobra is a fast and stylish sports car that was made in the 1960s. It's famous for being very powerful and is loved by many people who enjoy classic cars and racing.
The Shelby Cobra is a high-performance sports car that was originally produced in the 1960s by Carroll Shelby. Known for its lightweight design and powerful V8 engine, the Cobra has become an iconic symbol of American muscle and racing heritage, making it a popular topic among car enthusiasts and collectors.
Ferrari 599 Spider
"the Ferraris have 90 spider..."
The Ferrari 599 Spider is a fancy sports car that can be driven with the top down. It's very powerful and designed for speed and luxury.
The Ferrari 599 Spider is a convertible version of the 599 GTB, known for its powerful V12 engine and luxurious design. It's a high-performance sports car that offers an exhilarating driving experience.
Factory Five 1965 Shelby Cobra Replica
"this is the factory 5 1965 Shelby Cobra replica that we just finished building..."
The Factory Five 1965 Shelby Cobra Replica is a car that people can build themselves to look like the classic Shelby Cobra. It's known for being fast and fun to drive.
The Factory Five 1965 Shelby Cobra Replica is a kit car that allows enthusiasts to build their own version of the classic Shelby Cobra sports car. It features a lightweight design and powerful performance.
lemon law
"all those have been involved in a lemon law... that's part of a lemon law case..."
Lemon law is a law that helps people who buy cars that have a lot of problems. If a car is really bad, the owner can get their money back or a new car.
Lemon law refers to consumer protection laws that provide remedies to purchasers of cars that repeatedly fail to meet quality and performance standards. If a car is deemed a 'lemon,' the owner may be entitled to a refund or replacement.
lift
"...if we need to put it up on the lift we'll do that otherwise usually we'll run diagnostics..."
A lift is a tool that lifts cars up so mechanics can easily work underneath them. It makes it safer and easier to check for problems.
A lift is a mechanical device used in automotive repair shops to raise vehicles off the ground, allowing mechanics to access the undercarriage for inspection and repairs.
diagnostics
"...we'll run diagnostics because we have all the computers to run the codes to see what's going on..."
Diagnostics is how mechanics figure out what's wrong with a car. They use computers to read codes that tell them about any problems the car might have.
Diagnostics refers to the process of using specialized tools and software to identify issues within a vehicle's systems. This often involves reading error codes from the car's computer to determine what repairs are needed.
6.2 liter V8
"let's talk about the General Motors 6.2 liter V8 that has been recalled...having major issues with engine failure..."
A 6.2 liter V8 is a powerful engine made by General Motors. It's used in many of their cars and trucks, providing strong performance.
The 6.2 liter V8 is a type of internal combustion engine produced by General Motors, known for its power and performance. It's commonly found in various GM vehicles, including trucks and performance cars.
engine failure
"having major issues with engine failure which is obviously the major component of a car..."
Engine failure means the engine stops working correctly, which can be very expensive to fix.
Engine failure refers to a situation where the engine ceases to function properly, often due to mechanical issues or defects. This can lead to significant repair costs and vehicle downtime.
mass recall
"whenever there's either a mass recall or well we start with the mass defect..."
A mass recall is when a car company asks many owners to bring their cars back because there's a problem that needs fixing.
A mass recall occurs when a manufacturer identifies a defect affecting a large number of vehicles and decides to recall them to fix the issue. This is often done to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
GM
"...now GM realized that it should the recall and what's interesting about recall is a recall gives you a repair..."
GM stands for General Motors, a big car company that makes many different types of cars. They often need to fix problems with their cars, which can lead to recalls.
General Motors (GM) is one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world, known for producing a variety of vehicles under brands like Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick. They have a significant presence in the automotive market and are involved in various recalls and safety initiatives.
NHTSA
"...do you notify NHTSA that you see this pattern happening right now today and you filed all these cases..."
NHTSA is a government agency that makes sure cars are safe to drive. They help people with complaints about car problems and look into safety issues.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is a U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring the safety of motor vehicles and enforcing vehicle performance standards. They also handle consumer complaints and investigate safety issues.
memory foam seats
"...the first one memory foam seats NASA developed memory foam seats in the sixties to improve crash protection for airline pilots and passengers the materials ability to conform to the body shape while distributing weight evenly made it perfect for the space applications today's car seats use the same technology to provide comfort during log drives..."
Memory foam seats are special car seats that mold to your body shape, making them more comfortable. They were first created by NASA to help protect pilots and passengers in case of crashes.
Memory foam seats are designed to conform to the shape of the body, providing comfort and support. Originally developed by NASA, this technology helps distribute weight evenly, which can enhance safety and comfort during long drives.
anti-lock braking system (ABS)
"...the next one mike is anti-lock braking systems i didn't know this the concept behind the ABS came from aerospace anti-skid systems designed to prevent aircraft wheels..."
An anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps keep your car's wheels from locking up when you brake hard, which helps you steer better. It was inspired by technology used in airplanes to stop them from skidding.
An anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. This technology was adapted from aerospace systems designed to prevent aircraft wheels from skidding.
brake pressure modulation
"...modern cars use the same principle for rapid rapid brake pressure modulation to maintain steering control during emergency stops now you see that in that picture that's the motorcycle hand grip or hand brake..."
Brake pressure modulation means changing how hard the brakes are applied to keep the car stable. It helps drivers steer better, especially when they need to stop quickly.
Brake pressure modulation is a technique used in modern vehicles to adjust the braking force applied to the wheels, especially during emergency stops. This helps maintain steering control and stability, preventing the wheels from locking up and losing traction.
head-up display
"...the next one mike is a head-up display which i use in my car all the time fighter jet spacecraft pioneers brought this display technology to keep critical critical information in pilot's line of sight..."
A head-up display shows important information right in front of the driver, like speed or directions, so they don’t have to look down at the dashboard. It’s like having a mini screen on the windshield.
A head-up display (HUD) projects important information, such as speed and navigation, onto the windshield or a transparent screen in the driver's line of sight. This technology originated in fighter jets and has been adapted for use in modern cars to enhance driver awareness without requiring them to look away from the road.
strength to weight ratio
"the materials provide superior strength to weight ratios compared to traditional steel so that's very important that's very cool"
Strength to weight ratio tells us how strong a material is compared to how heavy it is. Lighter and stronger materials help cars go faster and use less fuel.
The strength to weight ratio is a measure of how strong a material is compared to its weight. In automotive design, materials with a high strength to weight ratio, like composites, are preferred for improving performance and efficiency.
fuel injection systems
"next one Michael fuel injection systems rocket engines pioneered precise fuel injection technology to achieve optimal combustion efficiency and power output"
Fuel injection systems help engines get the right amount of fuel to run efficiently. They make sure the engine gets the right mix of fuel and air for better performance.
Fuel injection systems are critical components in modern engines that deliver fuel directly into the combustion chamber. They allow for precise control of the fuel-air mixture, improving combustion efficiency and power output.
electronic fuel injection
"modern cars can use electronic fuel injection systems that trace their precision and efficiency back to rocket engine technology"
Electronic fuel injection is a way for cars to control how much fuel goes into the engine using computers. This helps the car run better and use less fuel.
Electronic fuel injection (EFI) is a modern fuel delivery system that uses electronic controls to optimize the fuel-air mixture for combustion. This technology enhances engine performance and fuel efficiency compared to older carburetor systems.
tire technology
"improved tire technology we all know this NASA's lunar rover program required tires that could handle the moon's safety"
Tire technology is about how tires are made and improved to make cars safer and better to drive. It includes things like the materials used and the patterns on the tire's surface.
Tire technology refers to the advancements in materials and design that improve tire performance, safety, and durability. This includes developments in tire compounds, tread patterns, and construction techniques that enhance grip and handling.
tire construction techniques
"research the tire compounds tread patterns and construction techniques influenced the earthbound tire development so there you go"
Tire construction techniques are the ways tires are built. This includes how different materials are layered together to make the tire strong and safe for driving.
Tire construction techniques refer to the methods used to build tires, including the arrangement of materials and layers that contribute to a tire's strength, flexibility, and performance. These techniques can vary based on tire type and intended use.
tread patterns
"research the tire compounds tread patterns and construction techniques influenced the earthbound tire development so there you go"
Tread patterns are the shapes and designs on the outside of a tire. They help the tire grip the road and keep the car stable, especially in wet conditions.
Tread patterns are the designs on the surface of a tire that make contact with the road. They are crucial for providing traction, handling, and water displacement to prevent hydroplaning.
tire compounds
"research the tire compounds tread patterns and construction techniques influenced the earthbound tire development so there you go"
Tire compounds are the special materials that make up tires. They help determine how well a tire grips the road and how long it lasts.
Tire compounds are the specific materials used in the rubber of tires, which affect their performance characteristics such as grip, wear, and temperature resistance. Different compounds are formulated for various driving conditions and tire types.
Cadillac Ranch
"...everybody's kind of heard of the Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo. It's one of the Route 66 most iconic stops. It was created in 1974 by a group of artists. It features 10 vintage Cadillacs buried nose first into the ground. Travelers are encouraged to bring their own spray cans to leave their marks..."
Cadillac Ranch is a famous art site in Texas where old Cadillacs are buried in the ground. People visiting can paint on them, so the artwork changes all the time.
Cadillac Ranch is an art installation located near Amarillo, Texas, featuring vintage Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground. Created in 1974, it has become a popular stop along Route 66, where visitors can spray paint the cars, making it a dynamic and interactive art piece.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
"Well, why not let Gulf Coast Auto Shield protect it? Houstonian John Gray invites you to his state-of-the-art facility..."
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a business that helps protect your car's paint and windows. They have special treatments to make your car look new and keep it safe from scratches and damage.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a company that specializes in automotive protection services, including paint protection and coatings. They offer various services to keep vehicles looking new and protected from environmental damage.
ceramic coating
"...massage your original paint to a like-new appearance, apply a ceramic coating, install a paint protection film..."
Ceramic coating is a special liquid that is put on your car's paint to protect it. It helps keep the car shiny and makes it easier to wash without damaging the paint.
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to the exterior of a vehicle to provide a protective layer against contaminants and UV damage. It enhances the vehicle's shine and makes it easier to clean.
paint protection film
"...apply a ceramic coating, install a paint protection film, nano ceramic window tent..."
Paint protection film is a clear layer that you can put on your car's paint to keep it safe from scratches and damage. It helps your car look good for a longer time.
Paint protection film is a clear, durable material applied to the surface of a vehicle to protect it from scratches, chips, and other damage. It acts as a barrier against environmental elements.
nano ceramic window tint
"...install a paint protection film, nano ceramic window tent, or a new windshield protection called Exo Shield..."
Nano ceramic window tint is a special film you can put on your car windows to keep the sun out. It helps keep the inside of your car cooler and protects you from harmful rays.
Nano ceramic window tint is a type of window film that uses advanced technology to block UV rays and heat while maintaining visibility. It provides protection and comfort for vehicle occupants.
Exo Shield
"...or a new windshield protection called Exo Shield..."
Exo Shield is a special film that you can put on your car's windshield to help protect it from getting damaged. It makes the glass stronger and safer.
Exo Shield is a type of windshield protection film designed to enhance the durability of the glass and protect it from chips and cracks. It provides an additional layer of safety for drivers.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.