The federal lemon law, known as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975, provides nationwide protection to consumers, primarily covering mechanical defects. In contrast, state lemon laws, such as those in California, are often more expansive and may include additional protections. State laws can vary significantly, so it's crucial for consumers to understand the specific lemon laws that apply in their state. The federal law acts as a baseline of consumer protection, while state laws may offer further recourse for defective vehicles.