What “opting in” means
Since 2025, a manufacturer can choose to follow the procedures in Code of Civil Procedure sections 871.20 to 871.30 for claims asking for a buyback or replacement. The choice covers vehicles sold over five calendar years and can’t be withdrawn during that period.
Manufacturers that did not opt in stay under the older Song-Beverly procedures. When a vehicle is sold new, the manufacturer must tell the buyer which set of procedures applies to it.
Carmakers on the state’s list
The Department of Consumer Affairs lists these passenger-vehicle manufacturers as opted in (list last checked September 29, 2026):
- FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo)
- Ford Motor Company (Ford, Lincoln)
- General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac)
- Hyundai Motor America and Genesis Motor America
- Kia America
- Nissan North America and Infiniti USA
- Mercedes-Benz USA
- Jaguar Land Rover North America
- Subaru of America
- Mitsubishi Motors North America
- Maserati North America, Lotus Cars USA, INEOS Automotive Americas, VinFast and Isuzu
Carmakers that are not on the state’s list
Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, Tesla, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Volvo, Mazda, Rivian and Lucid did not appear on the list when we checked. For those makes, the older procedures continue to apply. The list also includes many motorhome, travel-trailer and motorcycle makers.
What this means for you
- Look for the notice that came with your purchase or lease; it should say which procedures govern your vehicle.
- The state updates its list each year by December 15, so check it again if your purchase is recent.
- The new procedures change filing deadlines and notice steps. Ask an attorney to check your dates before relying on any deadline.
This post is general information about California law as of the date above, not legal advice about your situation.