Do you own a lemon?

The Maine Lemon Law applies to new vehicles that are still under the manufacturer's warranty, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and motor homes. The vehicle must have a substantial defect covered by the manufacturer's warranty and must have undergone a reasonable number of repair attempts.

A reasonable number of repair attempts is defined as three or more attempts to fix the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for a cumulative total of 15 or more business days due to repairs. This ensures that the manufacturer has had sufficient opportunity to address the defect.

The defect must occur within the earlier of the first 3 years or 18,000 miles of ownership, whichever comes first. Consumers must file their complaint within this timeframe to be eligible for relief under the Maine Lemon Law.

The Maine Lemon Law Arbitration Program is administered by the Maine Attorney General's Office. It provides a neutral platform for resolving Lemon Law disputes, ensuring that consumers have a fair opportunity to present their case and seek relief.

Possible outcomes of arbitration include receiving a replacement vehicle, a refund, or other compensation. The arbitrator may also order the manufacturer to cover incidental costs associated with the defect, such as taxes, registration fees, and finance charges.

Yes, if you disagrees with the arbitrator's decision, you have the option to appeal. In Maine, the appeal process involves filing a civil action in court. On the other hand, if you accept the arbitration ruling, the manufacturer cannot challenge it and must comply with the arbitrator’s decision. It is essential to consult with a Lemon Law attorney to determine the best course of action if you are considering an appeal.

Consumers can file a complaint with the Maine Attorney General's Office, which administers the Maine Lemon Law Arbitration Program. The Attorney General's Office provides assistance and guidance throughout the arbitration process.