State lemon law guide
Maryland Lemon Law
What counts as a lemon in Maryland, whether used cars are covered, and how to get a refund or replacement.
Maryland lemon law in one sentence
Under Maryland’s lemon law (Md. Code, Com. Law § 14-1501 et seq.), a new vehicle is presumed a lemon if the same defect is not fixed after 4 repair attempts (or 1 for a defect likely to cause death or serious injury) or it has been out of service for 30 days during the first 15 months or 15,000 miles.
Maryland lemon law at a glance
- Statute
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 14-1501 et seq.
- Coverage period
- 15 months or 15,000 miles
- Repair attempts
- 4 for the same defect · 1 for a serious safety defect
- Days out of service
- 30 days
- Used cars covered
- No
How to file a lemon law claim in Maryland
- Keep every repair order showing the problem, the date and the mileage.
- Confirm you meet Maryland’s threshold: 4 attempts or 30 days within 15 months or 15,000 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 Md. Code, Com. Law § 14-1501 et seq.. Laws change — confirm with the Maryland attorney general’s consumer protection office. Not legal advice.
Maryland lemon law FAQ
How many repair attempts make a car a lemon in Maryland?
4 attempts to fix the same defect, or 1 for a defect that could cause death or serious injury.
How many days out of service qualify under Maryland lemon law?
30 days for repairs during the coverage period.
Does Maryland lemon law cover used cars?
No. Maryland’s lemon law covers new vehicles. Used-car buyers rely on the remaining manufacturer warranty and federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protections.
How long does Maryland lemon law protection last?
15 months or 15,000 miles after delivery, whichever comes first where a mileage limit applies.
What can I get under Maryland 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.