What is the coverage period for Maine's lemon law?

Maine's lemon law covers defects that occur within 3 years or 18,000 miles of the vehicle's delivery date, whichever comes first.

How many repair attempts are required in Maine?

Three or more repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for 15 or more business days. For serious safety defects, only one repair attempt may be required.

Does Maine's lemon law cover used vehicles?

Yes, Maine's lemon law covers used vehicles that are still within the lemon law rights period of 3 years/18,000 miles from original delivery.

What remedies are available under Maine's lemon law?

Consumers can receive either a replacement vehicle or a refund of the full purchase price, including all collateral charges, minus a reasonable allowance for use.

Maine Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Maine Lemon Law Overview

Maine's lemon law, outlined in the Motor Vehicle Warranties Act (10 M.R.S. §§ 1161-1169), protects consumers who purchase or lease defective new vehicles. If a car has a significant defect that the manufacturer can't fix within a reasonable number of attempts, the consumer may be entitled to a refund or replacement.

Key Features

Applies to new and demonstrator vehicles
Coverage extends for 3 years from delivery or during the manufacturer's warranty — whichever is longer
Applies to both purchased and leased vehicles
Allows binding arbitration through the Maine Lemon Law Arbitration Program

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect impairs the vehicle's use, value, or safety
The issue first occurs within 3 years of delivery or during warranty
The manufacturer had 3+ repair attempts OR
The vehicle was out of service for 15+ business days

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

3 years from the date of delivery or while still under warranty — whichever is longer

Repair Attempts

At least 3 failed attempts to fix the same problem, OR
Out of service 15 or more business days

Note: Still under warranty? Even if you're outside the usual mileage or time limits, you may still qualify for lemon law protection if the issue occurred during the manufacturer's warranty period. It's worth getting a free case review.

Available Remedies

Refund

Full refund including taxes, registration, and fees (minus usage)

Replacement

New vehicle of comparable value and condition

Maine Lemon Law Process

1. Track Everything

Keep a timeline of issues and repair visits
Collect all work orders, letters, and warranty docs

2. Notify the Manufacturer

Give written notice and allow a final repair attempt
Request replacement or refund if the issue persists

3. File for Arbitration

Apply to the Maine Lemon Law Arbitration Program
Program is free to consumers and decisions are binding

Maine Lemon Law FAQs

Does Maine Lemon Law apply to used cars?

No, unless the car is still covered by the original manufacturer's warranty and meets all other criteria.

Is arbitration required?

Yes, if you wish to pursue a lemon law remedy through the state's program. It's free and legally binding.

Can leased vehicles qualify?

Yes, leased vehicles are covered under the law if all qualifications are met.

How long do I have to file?

You must file within 4 years of the date you knew or should have known the vehicle was a lemon.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Learn how common manufacturers handle lemon claims in Maine:

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