Protecting You from Getting Stuck with a Lemon
In Maryland, the Lemon Law protects you from getting "stuck" if the new vehicle you buy turns out to be a problem. When a new car, light duty truck, motorcycle or multi-purpose vehicle has been "repaired" for the same problem four or more times, or the vehicle has been out of service for at least 30 days for repairs, under the warranty, you are entitled to a new vehicle or a refund for the vehicle you have bought. If the problem involves the steering or braking system, only one attempt to repair it is required.
Your owner's manual will have the specifics on how to pursue a claim if your vehicle meets all the requirements of a real lemon! Your new vehicle only qualifies under this process if the problem you have with it occurs during the first 15 months or 15,000 miles. Before the time or mileage limit is up, you must report the problem in writing to the manufacturer by certified mail. Request a return receipt so you have a record of the notification. After you notify the manufacturer of your problem, you must give them the opportunity to fix it.
The manufacturer must fix your vehicle's problem, or replace it. The manufacturer can also refund you the full purchase price for the vehicle, less a reasonable allowance for your use of the vehicle. If you are refunded for your vehicle, the manufacturer must notify you in writing that you are entitled to the recovery of the excise taxes you paid on the vehicle. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration will then be able to refund your excise taxes, calculated on the amount of the refund you received.
The Consumer Protection Division of the Maryland Attorney General's Office can give you more information on the Lemon Law, and assist you in resolving a Lemon Law problem.
- Call Our Hotline Number: In the Baltimore area: 410-528-8662
(9 A.M. to 3 P.M. Monday through Friday) - In the D.C. Metro Area: 301-470-7534 TDD for hearing impaired persons: 410-576-6372
- Write: 200 St. Paul Place, 16th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202
- E-mail: consumer@oag.state.md.us
- Visit the Consumer Protection Division's website at: www.oag.state.md.us/consumer/lemon.htm for more information.
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