Maryland Lemon Law – Complete Consumer Guide

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    Maryland Lemon Law – Complete Consumer Guide

    The Maryland Lemon Law (sometimes called the Automotive Warranty Enforcement Act) protects buyers and lessees of certain new vehicles that have serious defects the manufacturer can’t repair after a reasonable number of attempts.

    If your vehicle is a “lemon,” you may be entitled to a replacement, refund, or cash settlement — plus reimbursement for certain expenses.

    1. Does the Maryland Lemon Law Apply to You?

    Covered Vehicles

    • New passenger cars, trucks, and motorcycles

    • Registered in Maryland

    • Gross vehicle weight under 10,000 pounds

    • Defects occurring within the earlier of:

      • 24 months after delivery OR

      • 18,000 miles on the odometer

    Not Covered

    • Used cars (other laws may apply)

    • Commercial vehicles over 10,000 lbs

    • Motorhomes’ living quarters

    2. What Qualifies as a “Lemon” in MD

    Your vehicle may qualify if:

    1. The same defect has been repaired 4 or more times without success; OR

    2. The defect is a serious brake or steering issue and has been repaired once without success; OR

    3. The vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative calendar days for any defects; AND

    4. The defect substantially impairs the use, safety, or value of the vehicle.

    3. Your Rights Under the Law

    If your vehicle meets the lemon standard, you may be entitled to:

    • Replacement vehicle of comparable value

    • Full refund of purchase price, including taxes, registration, and fees

    • Reimbursement for towing and rental car costs related to the defect

    • Possible attorney’s fees if your claim proceeds to court and you prevail

    4. The Process – Step-by-Step

    Step 1 – Notify the Manufacturer

    • Send a written notice by certified mail to the manufacturer describing the defect and repairs attempted.

    • Maryland law requires giving the manufacturer one final repair attempt.

    Step 2 – Final Repair Attempt

    • The manufacturer has 30 days to fix the defect after receiving notice.

    Step 3 – Mediation or Informal Dispute Programs

    • Maryland’s Consumer Protection Division offers mediation services.

    • Some manufacturers require participation in an arbitration program before filing suit (check your warranty booklet).

    5. The Litigation Process in Maryland Lemon Law Cases

    If repairs fail and informal resolution doesn’t work, you can pursue a legal claim.

    A. Filing the Lawsuit

    • We file a complaint in Maryland District Court or Circuit Court, depending on the amount in dispute.

    • We may include:

      • Maryland Lemon Law

      • Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

      • Maryland Consumer Protection Act

    B. Discovery Phase

    • Exchange of evidence with the manufacturer.

    • We request:

      • Repair orders and warranty claims

      • Manufacturer’s technical service bulletins

      • Internal defect reports

    C. Expert Inspections

    • Independent mechanical experts document the defect and repair history.

    D. Settlement Negotiations

    • Possible outcomes include:

      • Buyback

      • Replacement vehicle

      • Cash compensation for diminished value

      • Expense reimbursement

    E. Trial

    • Judge or jury decides whether your car is a lemon and determines your remedy.

    • If you win, you may recover court costs and attorney’s fees.

    6. Common Myths About the MD Lemon Law

    • Myth: “If the dealer keeps fixing it, I have no claim.”
      Truth: Repeated unsuccessful repairs still qualify.

    • Myth: “Only brand-new defects count.”
      Truth: Any covered defect within 24 months/18,000 miles may qualify.

    • Myth: “I must pay my lawyer up front.”
      Truth: Many Lemon Law cases are handled with no upfront fees — the manufacturer may pay legal fees if you win.

    7. How We Help

    At Ginsburg Law Group, we:

    • Review your repair history and purchase documents

    • Handle all manufacturer communication

    • Represent you in mediation, arbitration, or court

    • Work to recover the maximum remedy the law allows

    8. What to Do Now

    1. Gather Your Records

      • Purchase/lease agreement

      • All repair orders and invoices

      • Correspondence with dealer/manufacturer

    2. Contact Us

    3. Act Quickly

      • Maryland’s Lemon Law has strict time and mileage limits — don’t wait.

     

    CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE MD LEMON LAW STATUTE.