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

Maryland's lemon law covers defects that occur within 24 months or 18,000 miles of the vehicle's delivery date, whichever comes first.

How many repair attempts are required in Maryland?

Four or more repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for a cumulative total of 30 or more days. For serious safety defects, only one repair attempt may be required.

Does Maryland require arbitration?

No, Maryland does not require consumers to participate in arbitration before filing a lemon law claim, though manufacturers may offer voluntary programs.

What vehicles are covered under Maryland's lemon law?

New motor vehicles registered in Maryland, including cars, trucks, and SUVs primarily designed for transporting persons. Motorcycles and motor homes are also covered.

Maryland Lemon Law Guide - Bad Car Lawyers

Maryland Lemon Law Overview

Maryland's lemon law, known as the Automotive Warranty Enforcement Act, helps consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that turn out to be defective. The law covers serious mechanical or safety issues and provides consumers with legal remedies if a manufacturer cannot fix the problem within a reasonable timeframe.

Key Features

Applies to new passenger vehicles and light trucks
Coverage up to 15 months or 15,000 miles
Must be purchased or registered in Maryland
Written notice required for final repair attempt
Leased vehicles also qualify

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle May Qualify If:

The defect occurred within 15 months or 15,000 miles
The issue substantially impairs use, market value, or safety
Manufacturer had 4+ attempts to fix the issue, or
The vehicle was out of service for 30+ days
You provided written notice to the manufacturer

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Applies for the first 15 months or 15,000 miles — whichever comes first.

Repair Attempts

4+ attempts for the same defect OR
30+ days out of service

Final Opportunity to Repair

You must notify the manufacturer in writing and allow a final repair attempt before taking further legal action.

Still under warranty? Even if you're outside the mileage or time limits, you may still qualify if the issue occurred while the manufacturer's warranty was active. It's worth getting a free case review.

Available Remedies

Repurchase

Refund of purchase price minus reasonable usage fee

Replacement

Comparable new vehicle of same type

Repairs

Manufacturer may be ordered to complete repairs at no cost

Maryland Lemon Law Process

1. Track Repairs

Keep all service receipts and invoices
Note mileage and date of each repair attempt

2. Send Final Repair Notice

Send certified mail to the manufacturer
Allow them one last opportunity to repair the vehicle

3. Seek Legal Help

If the defect persists, file a lemon law claim
Maryland law allows recovery of attorney's fees

Maryland Lemon Law FAQs

Does Maryland Lemon Law cover used cars?

Only if the defect appears while the vehicle is still under the original manufacturer's warranty and within the law's 15-month/15,000-mile coverage period.

Do leased vehicles qualify?

Yes. Leased vehicles are covered if the lease includes a manufacturer's warranty and meets the lemon law criteria.

Can I go to court right away?

No. You must give the manufacturer a final opportunity to repair the vehicle after written notice before taking legal action.

What types of vehicles are covered?

Passenger vehicles, SUVs, and light trucks registered in Maryland and intended primarily for personal, family, or household use.

Manufacturer-Specific Information

Explore known defects and warranty details for common brands:

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Maryland Lemon Law

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