Former Lawyer Takes Honda Civic Hybrid Lemon to Small Claims Court

The AP reports a former attorney, and California state employee, has taken Honda to Small Claims Court over the Lemon-like gas mileage on her 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid. The former lawyer claims to have gotten only 29-30 mpg, rather than the advertised 50 mpg. She claims the mileage deteriorated over time due to a degrading battery. America Honda Motor Company apparently responds the window sticker ad for 50 mpg “clearly indicated that her mileage would vary depending on driving conditions, options, vehicle condition and other factors.” The AP reports “experts” state the former attorney may have a better chance in small claims court than as part of an ongoing class action. Hmmmm, the Consumer’s Friend doubts this, but wishes her all the best. She may have a better chance with her legal training than the average consumer. However, she better have some good evidence, and possibly expert testimony, to counter Honda. She should also note that there is a $7,500 limit in California small claims court. One wonders why she doesn’t hire a lemon lawyer, who can represent her for free, to take her case to Superior Court.