Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Lemon Law

The Eclipse Cross uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and transmission complaints top the list of owner concerns. Drivers report slipping or a loss of drive, delayed engagement when pulling away, a shudder or vibration on light acceleration, and unusual noises during shifting. Because the CVT is governed by sensors and control software, a faulty wiring connection or bad sensor can make the transmission behave erratically or fail to engage at all.

Electrical issues are the other recurring theme. Eclipse Cross owners and safety databases report faults in the forward collision mitigation and other driver-assistance electronics, brake-system electrical problems, warning lights that won't clear, and weak or intermittent air conditioning. Any of these can put you back at the dealer again and again for the same unresolved complaint.

California's Lemon Law isn't limited to recalled defects. If your Eclipse Cross has been in for the same CVT or electrical problem several times without a lasting repair, or has been out of service for an extended period, it may qualify as a lemon even if that exact issue was never recalled. Proving a repeated, unrepaired defect is what matters, and a qualifying claim can mean a buyback, a replacement, or a cash settlement with Mitsubishi covering your attorney fees.

A recall is not automatically a lemon — it's the manufacturer acknowledging a defect and offering a free repair. California's Lemon Law (the Song-Beverly Act) comes into play when a substantial defect can't be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts, or when your Eclipse Cross has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days.

If your Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross qualifies, you may be entitled to a buyback (a refund of what you've paid, minus a mileage offset), a replacement vehicle, or a cash-and-keep settlement — and Mitsubishi pays your attorney fees on a successful claim, so pursuing your case costs you nothing out of pocket.