In attempts to curb suits and minimize their potential for losses, car manufacturers regularly publish notices about model batches that have been found to contain significant defects and are being recalled from the market. If you want to avoid having to deal with a case, here are three recent car maker recalls to watch out for. If you have recently purchased one of the following models and are wondering if you might have a Lemon on your hands, contact an attorney today. You may be entitled to a replacement vehicle and/or a full buyback from the manufacturer.

1. Honda – March, 2013
In mid-March of this year, Honda announced it was recalling almost 250,000 cars worldwide due to faulty breaks. The affected models’ breaks sometimes kick in suddenly even when the driver is not pressing down on the brake pedal. 183,000 of these vehicles are being recalled in the U.S. The recalled models include the Acura RL, Pilot, and Acura MDX models. No crashes have resulted from the defect, but several complaints have been filed. The problem is believed to be the cause of bad electronics and wiring in the vehicles’ stability assist systems.

2. Subaru – March, 2013
In early March, Subaru’s American branch announced it would be recalling over 47,000 of its vehicles, which are equipped with remote starters. The problem in the recalled vehicles is that their engines have a tendency to start on their own. The models affected include the Legacy, Outback, Impreza, and XV Crosstrek models (years ranging from 2010 to 2013). One possible explanation offered by the manufacturer was that if the key fob is dropped, it can result in a malfunction that causes the engine to start. If left idle, the motor will stay on for up to 15 minutes, starting and stopping intermittently until the gas tank empties or the battery runs out. If the car is parked in an enclosed space, a dangerous carbon monoxide buildup is possible. Subaru has offered to replace all faulty key fobs, free of charge. No injuries related to the defect have been reported so far.

3. Ford – March, 2013
Ford also announced in March that it would be recalling 230,000 of its minivans. The recall is effective in 21 U.S. states where the weather tends to be cold. The problem with the minivans has to do with rust build up, which causes the third row seats of these vans to come loose. Affected models include the Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey models from 2004 and 2007. Ford dealerships are offering to install new seating, as well as new panels over the rear wheels, which will keep water out and help prevent rusting.

4. BMW – February, 2013
This past February, BMW announced it was recalling nearly 570,000 vehicles in the U.S. and Canada due to a failure in the cars’ battery cable connector that was causing their engines to stall. The affected models include BMW’s famous 3-Series sedans, coupes, convertibles and wagons from 2007 through 2011. Also affected are the Z4 sports car (2009 through 2011 models) and the 1-Series coupes (2008 through 2012 models). No injuries related to the problem have been reported yet. BMW is offering to replace faulty battery cable connectors. If you’ve purchased one of the affected BMW models, you can contact the manufacturer about it by calling (800) 525-7417.

Remember that in order to be protected under the statutes of California’s Lemon Law, you must have contacted the manufacturer about the problem at least once, and a reasonable number of repair attempts must be allowed for before your vehicle can be declared a Lemon. For more information and to find out what your legal rights as a consumer are, contact a qualified lawyer.