Do you own a lemon?
If you own or lease a defective vehicle in Maryland, you could qualify for a refund, cash settlement, or vehicle replacement.
How the Maryland Lemon Law can
help you
Maryland’s Automotive Warranty Enforcement Act (Md. Code, Com. Law § 14-1501 et seq.), commonly known as the Maryland Lemon Law, protects consumers who purchase or lease defective new cars. This law outlines the specific steps that you can take to get compensation in one of three ways as outlined below.
Refund or Buyback
You get reimbursed for the total cost of your vehicle.
Cash Settlement
You can keep your car but you get paid for the repair problems.
Replacement Vehicle
Your vehicle is replaced with a brand new unit.
Maryland Lemon Law Qualifications
If your vehicle meets any one of these criteria, it could be a lemon!
MAJOR SAFETY DEFECT
At least two repair attempts have been done on the vehicle for a substantial safety defect that can potentially cause serious bodily injury or death.
FOUR REPAIR ATTEMPTS
At least four repair attempts have been done on the new vehicle for the same non-serious safety defect or issue.
30 DAYS IN THE SHOP
The vehicle is in the repair shop and can’t be used for a total of more than 30 days (cumulative) for any combination of defects.
Your Maryland Lemon Law Team
ATTY. JONATHAN S., ESQ.
Managing Partner
ATTY. KEVIN J., ESQ.
Managing Partner
ATTY. NICHOLAS Y., ESQ.
Associate Attorney
What Our Clients Say About Us
Jonathan S.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
I've had my car in and out of the dealer for months trying to get the Infotainment system and Check Engine Light issues fixed. I took the chance and got a free consultation with Lemon Lawyers California and after they explained the process to me, it all went smoothly from there.
Kimberly S.
lOS ANGELES, ca
What truly stood out was his unwavering honesty and transparency in providing advice and guidance. I am extremely grateful for the favorable resolution of my case, and I will not hesitate to refer friends and family to Kevin and his team should they ever require similar assistance.
Shane R.
lOS ANGELES, CA
From my initial contact to the final settlement, the process was smooth and easy. Kevin and their legal staff maintained contact throughout my case and got me a settlement that was more than fair. Thank you Lemon Lawyers California for all your help!
Maryland Lemon Law FAQs
YOUR MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A vehicle is considered a lemon under Maryland Lemon Law if it has a defect that substantially impairs its use, safety, or market value and the manufacturer is unable to fix it after a reasonable number of repair attempts. The law defines a reasonable number as:
Four or more repair attempts for the same issue without success, OR
One unsuccessful repair attempt for a serious safety defect, OR
The vehicle has been out of service for 30 cumulative days due to repairs.
Maryland Lemon Law covers new vehicles including passenger cars, light trucks (under 10,000 lbs.), motorcycles, and motor homes that are purchased or leased in Maryland and registered in the state. The law applies to personal vehicles but does not cover commercial vehicles. Used cars are not covered, but they may be eligible for protection under Maryland’s Used Car Warranty Law or federal consumer protection laws.
Under Md. Code, Com. Law § 14-1502, consumers must report a defect to the manufacturer within the first 24 months or 18,000 miles, whichever comes first. If the issue persists and is not repaired, the owner has up to three years from the date of delivery to file a legal claim against the manufacturer. Acting quickly and documenting all repairs is crucial to ensure eligibility.
To file a Maryland Lemon Law claim, follow these steps:
Report the defect to the manufacturer in writing and allow them to repair the issue.
Keep records of all repair attempts, invoices, and communications.
If the issue is not resolved, request a refund or replacement from the manufacturer.
If the manufacturer refuses, you can file for arbitration (if offered) or pursue a lawsuit in court.Seeking legal guidance from a Maryland Lemon Law attorney can improve your chances of a successful claim.
If your vehicle qualifies as a lemon, you may receive any of these compensation settlements:
A full refund, including taxes, registration fees, and finance charges, minus a reasonable use deduction (based on mileage).
A replacement vehicle of comparable value.The manufacturer is responsible for all repair costs and legal fees, so hiring an attorney is often risk-free for consumers.
Maryland does not require arbitration, but some manufacturers have state-certified arbitration programs that consumers may choose to participate in. Arbitration can be faster and less costly, but manufacturers may have influence over the process. If arbitration does not provide a fair resolution, or if the owner does not wish to arbitrate, they have the right to file a lawsuit in court.
The most common defects in Maryland Lemon Law claims include:
- Engine and transmission failures
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Brake and steering issues
- Airbag and safety system defects
- Persistent leaks and water damage
A defect must substantially impair the use, safety, or value of the vehicle to qualify under the law.
Car owners can file a complaint or seek assistance from:
Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
Phone: (410) 528-8662
Toll-Free: (888) 743-0023
Website: www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA)
Phone: (410) 768-7000
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