The lemon law in Maryland is a state-specific statute designed to safeguard buyers who purchase brand-new vehicles with significant defects.
What is Maryland Lemon Law?
This legislation ensures that manufacturers uphold their warranty obligations when a vehicle exhibits substantial defects affecting its use, value, or safety. Depending on the circumstances, consumers may be eligible for a refund. It’s crucial for Maryland residents to understand their rights under this law to secure appropriate remedies if they encounter a lemon.
What is Maryland Lemon Law?
Passenger cars, pickup trucks with capacities of one ton or less, and multipurpose vehicles registered in the state. Fleets of five or more and motor homes are excluded.
Maryland Lemon Law Coverage Period
The Maryland Lemon Law specifies a coverage period during which consumers are protected against substantial defects in their vehicles. This period typically begins on the date of purchase and extends for a certain duration or mileage, whichever comes first. It’s essential for consumers to be aware of this timeframe to ensure they can exercise their rights effectively.
Maryland Lemon Law Coverage Period
Protection remains effective for either 24 months or until the vehicle reaches 18,000 miles of use, whichever comes first.
Maryland Lemon Law Repair Attempts
Under the Maryland Lemon Law, a vehicle may be considered a lemon if it exhibits substantial defects that remain unresolved after a reasonable number of repair attempts. Generally, this involves four unsuccessful repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for 45 cumulative days within the warranty period. It’s crucial for consumers to maintain detailed records of all repair attempts and communications with the manufacturer or dealer to strengthen their Lemon Law claim.
Maryland Lemon Law Repair Attempts
Qualification occurs after one failed attempt to fix braking or steering failures, four unsuccessful repair attempts for general defects, or if repairs exceed 30 days of service downtime.
Maryland Lemon Law Claim & Consumers Rights
To initiate a Lemon Law claim in Maryland, it’s essential for consumers to adhere to specific procedures to guarantee the protection of their rights.
The first step involves notifying the manufacturer or authorized dealer about the vehicle’s defect and providing them the opportunity to fix it.
Maintaining detailed records of all repair attempts, including invoices, work orders, and any communications with the manufacturer or dealer, is essential.
If, after several repair attempts, the defect persists, the consumer may initiate a formal complaint under the Lemon Law.
Depending on the circumstances, this process may involve dispute resolution mechanisms or court proceedings.
Consulting with a specialized Lemon Law attorney can offer advice and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Maryland Lemon Law FAQ
What does the Lemon Law mean? The Lemon Law is a consumer protection statute designed to help individuals who purchase or lease vehicles that have significant defects
Does the Lemon Law apply to all vehicles? Typically, vehicles under the original manufacturer warranty—whether purchased or leased—are protected by Lemon Laws.
How do I know if my car’s problem is considered substantial under the Lemon Law? If a defect affects your vehicle’s safety, performance, or value significantly, it’s typically covered by the Lemon Law
How many repair attempts are required before a vehicle qualifies as a lemon? A reasonable number of attempts typically involves three to four failed repair efforts or about 30 days out of service due to repairs.
What should I do if I think my vehicle is a lemon? If you suspect your vehicle is a lemon, immediately notify the manufacturer or authorized dealer about the defect and allow them to attempt repairs
How important is documentation for a Lemon Law claim? Comprehensive documentation such as invoices, repair orders, warranty papers, and written communication is essential to strengthen your Lemon Law claim
What remedies are available under the Lemon Law? Depending on your circumstances, you may receive a full refund, a replacement vehicle, or monetary reimbursement.
Can I handle a Lemon Law claim without legal help? Hiring a Lemon Law attorney isn’t mandatory, but professional legal guidance often greatly increases your chances of a successful outcome
Is filing a Lemon Law claim expensive? Many Lemon Law attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay legal fees only if your claim is successful—often covered by the manufacturer
Am I allowed to use my car while my Lemon Law case is ongoing? Yes, generally you may continue driving your vehicle during the Lemon Law process, but you should document any additional issues thoroughly
