State lemon law guide
Maine Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in Maine, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
Maine lemon law in one sentence
Under Maine’s lemon law (10 M.R.S. § 1161 et seq.), a new vehicle is presumed a lemon if the same defect is not fixed after 3 repair attempts or it has been out of service for 15 business days during the first 3 years or 18,000 miles.
Maine lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- 10 M.R.S. § 1161 et seq.
- Coverage period
- 3 years or 18,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 3 for the same defect
- Days out of service
- 15 business days
- Used cars covered
- Yes
Used vehicles are covered while within the 3-year / 18,000-mile period.
How to file a lemon law claim in Maine
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet Maine’s threshold: 3 attempts or 15 business days within 3 years or 18,000 miles.
- Send written notice to the manufacturer by certified mail and give it a final chance to repair.
- If it is not fixed, request the manufacturer’s arbitration program or contact a lemon law attorney.
Summary of 10 M.R.S. § 1161 et seq.. Laws change — confirm with the Maine attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
Maine lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Maine?
3 attempts to fix the same defect.
How many days out of service qualify under Maine lemon law?
15 business days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does Maine lemon law cover used cars?
Used vehicles are covered while within the 3-year / 18,000-mile period.
How long does Maine lemon law protection last?
3 years or 18,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under Maine lemon law?
Usually a replacement vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, minus a reasonable allowance for use, plus collateral costs. Check the statute for state-specific rules on fees and arbitration.